actors on stage

Theatre Courses

This is a listing of theatre (THTR) classes currently offered at Bethany. Not all courses are available every semester. For more information on theatre programs and faculty, see the Theatre Major and the Theatre Department pages. For performance information, see the Theatre page. Please contact the registrar if you have questions.

There are 24 courses in this subject. View other subjects or view all courses.

CodeCourse Title / Description
THTR100Production Involvement 1 credit
Credit granted to students submitting at least 30 hours toward a theatrical production. The instructor determines the allotment of credit gauged by the responsibility of the role the student is undertaking. May not be taken in conjunction with other theatre practica. Offered on a credit/no credit basis. May be repeated in the following areas: (a) acting or (b) technical theatre. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
THTR101Introduction to Theatre 3 credits
A class designed to acquaint students with the theatre arts. Play and text readings, the viewing of live performances, critical writing assignments, and group discussion will be utilized to enhance understanding and appreciation for the art as a whole.
THTR102Acting I 3 credits
A rudimentary acting course, defining and exercising the actor's tools of expression within the body and voice. These tools are then applied to character structuring through script analysis, improvisation and scene work.
THTR210Directing I 3 credits
A fundamental exploration in the theory and practice of directing theatre, culminating in the production of scenes from dramatic literature. Prerequisites: THTR101 - Introduction to Theatre, THTR102 - Acting I, or consent of instructor.
THTR215Fundamentals of Stagecraft & Design 3 credits
An introductory course in contemporary scenic staging techniques, this course is designed to acquaint students with the various elements, techniques and procedures used in stagecraft and theatrical design. This course contains units on aesthetics, tools, safety, scene painting, lighting, construction materials and building techniques.
THTR240Vocal Production and Interpretation 3 credits
An introduction to vocal performance with focus primarily on the human voice. To further understand the voice, basic anatomy of the vocal mechanism and proper tecniques for its use will be covered, as well as the examination of commonly used stage dialects. Utilization of the International Phonetic Alphabet will also be employed in the study of vocal mechanics. This course also deals with the vocal performance of various kinds of literature, including poetry and prose.
THTR280Intermediate Topics in Theatre 3 credits
An examination of various lower-level topics in theatre. Specific topics will be announced. Repeatable by topic.
THTR300Theatre Practicum 1 credit
The 300 series practica may be taken for a grade. These practica allow the qualified student the opportunity to apply the techniques they have learned toward an actual stage production. Areas include acting, stage management, light design, scene/prop design, sound design, costume design, and technical theatre. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor required.
THTR302Acting II 3 credits
An examination of various theories on the art of acting in conjunction with applied character development work. Prerequisite: THTR102 - Acting I.
THTR310Theatre History and Literature I 3 credits
An historical overview of theatrical activity and plays from its origins to the 1600's. The course will trace developments or changes in practice and major trends and movements that shaped the art through time. Close readings of dramatic literature and study of the contributions of individual theatre artists will supplement the scope of the course. Prerequisite: THTR101 - Introduction to Theatre.
THTR311Theatre History and Literature II 3 credits
An historical overview of theatrical activity and plays from the 1600s to the present day. The course will trace developments or changes in practice as well as major trends that shaped theatre through time. Close readings of dramatic literature and study of the contributions of individual theatre artists will supplement the scope of the course. Prerequisite: THTR101 - Introduction to Theatre.
THTR320Scene Design 3 credits
Students will explore the craft of designing scenery for theatre and media arts. This will include: creating multiple point perspective drawings, 2D color renderings, and building scale models for various tools and materials will be explored.
THTR330Period Style 3 credits
This course is an examination of the relationship between arts and culture during major periods in history. Visual and conceptual choices are explored as to the ways these relationships are used by directors and designers in the context of theatrical collaboration.
THTR360Lighting Design 3 credits
Lighting Design is an advanced technical theatre and media arts course exploring the practices and techniques of stage lighting. The course focuses on identifying design elements and emphasizes the design process through classroom exercises and design projects.
THTR380Sound Design 3 credits
An overview of how sound is designed, constructed, and implemented for theatre and media arts. This course includes both creative and technical/technological discussions. Prerequisites: THTR101 - Introduction to Theatre, THTR215 - Fundamentals of Stagecraft & Design, or consent of instructor.
THTR381Advanced Design and Technical Seminar 3 credits
An examination of various topics within technical theatre and design. Specific topics will be announced. Prerequisite: THTR215 - Fundamentals of Stagecraft & Design or consent of instructor.
THTR390Costume Design 3 credits
This course will give students a basic understanding of the principles of theatrical costume design and the psychology of clothing. Students develop designs that emerge through a process of visual inspiration, character analysis, and script and directorial concepts. Historical research, design, and rendering skills are fostered through practical exercises and provide tools for students to produce creative projects. Knowledge of fabric and materials as well as costume history and careers in costume design will also be explored.
THTR410Directing II 3 credits
An exploration of the challenges involved in directing non-realistic and period plays. Involves research and analysis of texts followed by an application of directing techniques. Culminates in a production of at least one short scene. Prerequisite: THTR210 - Directing I.
THTR420Dramatic Theory and Criticism 3 credits
The in-depth study of major writings on theatre and drama throughout the ages. This is a seminar class wherein the student will focus on analyzing varying perspectives of drama and theatre, and writing original criticism. Prerequisite: THTR101 - Introduction to Theatre or consent of instructor.
THTR430Playwriting 3 credits
This course is an introduction to the art of playwriting. Students will explore a variety of play structures and techniques by utilizing various exercises and methods in their own writing, as well as observing the forms of existing plays, both written and performed. Techniques for fostering dramatic ideas in both form and content will be explored throughout the term. Student work will be read and performed in class. Prerequisite: THTR101 - Introduction to Theatre, THTR102 - Acting I, or consent of instructor.
THTR460Theatre Management 3 credits
A study of the particular challenges involved in the business of theatre. Includes an examination of the various expenses involved with the theatre art form as well as the means to provide capital to cover these expenses. Includes basic business practices. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
THTR480Advanced Topics in Theatre 3 credits
An examination of various topics concerning the contemporary theatre artist. Specific topics to be announced. Repeatable by topic. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
THTR495Theatre Capstone 3 credits
Involves the integration of the various facets of theatre arts into a culminating project. Objectives and goals established by the student and instructor. Deadlines established by the department. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
THTR499Theatre Internship 3 credits
Theatre-related field experience with an approved agency fulfilling an individual learning contract negotiated between the student, faculty advisor, and worksite. Only three credits may apply toward fulfilling requirements for the major. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

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For information on the facilities available at Bethany, see the Sigurd K. Lee Theater page.