Theatre

THE 103 The Authentic Instrument I: Introduction to Performance Skills 3 Credits

Through Alexander Technique and other methodologies, actors gain awareness of personal habits and begin to find their authentic, truth-telling voice and body—a dynamic and expressive instrument to serve them in any medium.

THE 104 The Authentic Instrument II: Developing the Imaginative Performer 3 Credits

Continuing from THE 103, actors explore psycho-physical techniques (e.g. Michael Chekhov, Viewpoints, Laban) to develop the actor’s imagination. The class culminates in a public presentation using the tools that have been cultivated in Authentic Instrument I & II.

Prerequisite(s): THE 103.

THE 105 Theatre History to 1700 3 Credits

The history of theater from the primitive time through the Baroque era. Examines major plays and playwrights, emphasizing the Greek, Roman, Medieval, and Elizabethan eras.This course counts towards the fulfillment of the Disciplinary Perspectives element of the CLAS general education curriculum.

THE 106 Theater History Since 1700 3 Credits

The history of theater from the Restoration to the present. Examines major plays and playwrights, emphasizing the Restoration, Romantic, and Realistic movements.This course counts towards the fulfillment of the Disciplinary Perspectives element of the CLAS general education curriculum.

THE 107 Acting I: Intro to Acting 3 Credits

Exercises and improvisations developing the fundamental prerequisites for the actor are provided. The emphasis is on vocal and physical mobility and the ability to communicate emotional states from the stage.

THE 110 Acting II: Scene Study 3 Credits

Basic acting techniques. Emphasis on the ingredients of any action: what am I doing, where, why, who am I, what is my attitude toward partner?

Prerequisite(s): THE 107.

THE 111 Theatre Lab 0 Credits

This class serves as a forum for students to cultivate practical professional skills. Through seminars, guest speakers and master classes, this lab will give the students necessary tools to enter the professional theater. Theater majors must meet the weekly attendance and participation requirements during every semester up to a total of six.

THE 115 Stagecraft 3 Credits

The theory and practice of construction and rigging of stage scenery is offered. Emphasis is on actual productions and road show set-ups. One lecture and two labs per week.

THE 116 Stagecraft Practicum 1 Credits

Work in the various shops and stages specializing in different areas such as carpentry, scenic painting, lighting and electrics, costumes and props, assisting main stage productions under the supervision of the design or technical staff.

Prerequisite(s): THE 115.

THE 118 Visual Imagination 3 Credits

Introduction to the visual world of theater design. Visual examples, physical exercises and handcraft of composition and style, with dramatic input and meaning. The course explores how to translate ideas in a dramatic text into a visual context.

THE 120 Theater Appreciation 3 Credits

By exploration of dramatic literature, conclusions are drawn as to man’s relationship to his particular period, style, political, social, and psychological environment. Appreciation of the theatrical event is included. This course counts towards the fulfillment of the Disciplinary Perspectives element of the CLAS general education curriculum.

THE 127 Theatre Production 1 Credits

Students rehearse and perform roles in a play produced by the department and directed by a member of its faculty.

THE 190 Production I 1 Credits

Students carry out a technical theatre crew position for one or more theatre, musical theatre or dance productions during the semester of course registration. May be repeated seven times, for a total of eight credits.

THE 199 The Arts in Contemporary Civil 3 Credits

An integrated study of the arts and their place in contemporary American life. Includes attendance at several events in art, music, and drama.

THE 201 Devised Theatre 3 Credits

Devised theatre is a process in which a whole creative team – from actors to technicians - develop a new work collaboratively. Students will create an original production inspired by a theme, topic, poem, or circumstance using multimedia, interviews, and other methods and build them through collaborative workshops and rehearsals.

THE 206 American Theatre History 3 Credits

The history of the American theater from the colonial period to the present, emphasizing dramatic scripts and theatrical conventions. Examines important playwrights, theorists, and practitioners representative of each period of American history, emphasizing the 19th and 20th centuries.

THE 207 Contemporary Theatre 3 Credits

The course will engage in exploring the art of contemporary dramatic literature and theatre practices. The scripts studied will reflect the complexity and diversity of contemporary society in various places around the world. Through an examination of a diverse body of scripts, the student will gain a better understanding of the possibilities inherent in the dramatic form, as well as the potential for the form to impact thought and action in society.

THE 215 Introduction to Theatrical Lighting and Sound 3 Credits

This course will introduce students to basic lighting and sound principles and how those integrate into a theatrical performance. The main focus of the class will be analysis and application of lighting and sound equipment commonly used in live performance and how that equipment functions and is installed. The class will also touch on the design process, script analysis, and lighting color theory. These objectives will be achieved through in-depth lectures, class discussions, and hands-on demonstration sessions.

THE 216 Introduction to Scenic Construction 3 Credits

This course will expose students to reading construction drawings, construction techniques, generating material lists, problem-solving, and material and time management as related to scenic construction. A shop participation requirement will allow students to apply course objectives within a real-time production schedule and construction environment.

THE 219 Stage Management 3 Credits

Provide necessary tools to get started as a production stage manager (PSM), including management, leadership, communication and organzational skills. Providing guidelines to prepare production paperwork. Overview of the relationship between the PSM and other production personnel.

Prerequisite(s): THE 115.

THE 220 Movement for the Actor I 3 Credits

This course is an introduction to movement training methodologies, and emphasizes physical awareness and expressivity as it relates to development of character.

Prerequisite(s): THE 110, For Acting majors or by permission of the instructor.

THE 221 Voice for the Actor 1 3 Credits

Focuses on the exploration of the basic principles of vocal production and cultivating the natural expressivity of the voice. Classwork is based upon the classic progression of voice exercises of Kristin Linklater.

Prerequisite(s): THE 107 with a minimum grade of C; restricted to BFA in Acting for Film, Television and Theatre.

THE 222 Voice for the Actor 2 3 Credits

Focuses on the exploration of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) and the use of the IPA in learning dialects (including Standard Neutral American) for the stage.

Prerequisite(s): THE 221.

THE 224 Stage Make Up 3 Credits

Basic application of make up artistry and techniques for the stage. How it can help build a character, and how to apply to self and others.

THE 226 Drafting for the Stage 3 Credits

Covers essential drafting language for staged productions. Drafting of ground plans, sections, elevations, and renderings by hand and with computers.

Prerequisite(s): THE 118.

THE 227 Properties and Scenic Painting 3 Credits

Covers general aspects of scenic painting and props for the stage. Hands on exercises, needs and challenges of each area, how work is usually accomplished in the professional world. Explore different textures, materials and how to combine them.

Prerequisite(s): THE 115 or THE 118.

THE 228 Projection Design 3 Credits

In this course students will learn the basics of video editing software and its application to the performing arts. It will provide them with a general understanding of the needs for projection design, visual possibilities, explore the reasons to use video or projection in a production and its most effective applications within theatrical production limitations.

Prerequisite(s): THE 115, THE 118.

THE 229 Movement for the Actor II 3 Credits

This course is a continuation of study in movement training methodologies (Alexander Technique, Viewpoints, Laban). It will emphasize developing physical awareness and expressiveness as it relates to the development of character work. It will also continue the further cultivation of awareness of habitual psycho-physical patterns that inhibit students in their professional development.

Prerequisite(s): THE 220, THE 221.

THE 240 Script Analysis 3 Credits

This course provides students with a technique for analyzing a theatrical script in terms of its theatrical requirements and aesthetic qualities. Students will use critical research and develop the abilities to write and speak clearly about dramatic literature, the requirements of production, and the experience of performance.

Prerequisite(s): THE 107 with a minimum grade of C.

THE 250 Introduction to Costume Construction 3 Credits

This course will introduce students to basic costume construction methods and alteration skills used by professional costume shops and costume houses to create theatrical costumes. Students will complete several projects, covering hand and machine sewing, cutting, fabric identification, and will also learn how to use home and commercial patterns to cut out garments and simple patterning and draping techniques. Students will also get practical experience by assisting the costume designer and/or shop manager in supporting the needs of the current productions and will have experience taking measurements, fitting and the alteration of actual costumes.

THE 260 History of Style and Decor 3 Credits

This class is a survey of elements, furnishings, decorative motifs and trends in architecture, decor and fashion, starting with prehistory and moving through the early part of the 21st century. It is intended to be a visual survey of the major “periods” of both decor and fashion and is intended to help theatre artists to develop an understanding of visual history.

THE 290 Production II 1 Credits

Students carry out an intermediate level technical theatre crew position for one or more theatre, musical theatre, or dance productions during the semester of course registration. Intermediate level technical theatre positions are supervisory positions or assistants to department heads which include, but not limited to, assistant to a designer, Stage Manager, Wardrobe Supervisor, and Master Carpenter.

Prerequisite(s): SO standing; 3 credits of THE 190.

THE 300 Acting for the Camera 3 Credits

Focuses on the craft and artistry of acting in television and film. Examination of TV production and the styles needed for work in various media will be discussed. Physicalization, simplicity, listening, marking and other technical requirements will be explored. Staging involving different camera angles will be rehearsed. The emphasis of this class is on adapting the performance to the special needs of the camera.

Prerequisite(s): THE 107.

THE 308 Modern Drama 3 Credits

Surveys American and European drama from 1920 to 1970. All plays are read in English translation. In these plays, theatrical artists address the great themes of this century. While doing so, they also expand the limits of theatrical expression.

THE 310 Acting III 3 Credits

Students will study in-depth techniques for exploring characterization. They will be introduced to the “magic if” and study techniques for placing themselves in the circumstances of the characters they are portraying. They will learn the interior and exterior analysis of characters using “Adler” and “Practical Aesthetics” techniques.

Prerequisite(s): THE 107, THE 110.

THE 311 Acting IV 3 Credits

Students will learn and practice performance techniques that explore a variety of theatrical styles, primarily focused on styles that have a heightened form and/or language.

Prerequisite(s): THE 310.

THE 312 The Arts Abroad 1-3 Credits

A short-term trip abroad that includes a critical study of local & regional arts and culture. Students are required to attend all performances, guided tours, and classes before and after the trip. A travel fee is required. Travel sites and artistic disciplines may vary year to year. May be taken more than once for credit.

Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor.

THE 313 Voice for the Actor 3 3 Credits

Actors continue their study of vocal progression with Kristen Linklater and the speech work of Patsy Rodenberg, Edith Skinner and Louis Colaianni to develop physical freedom, energy, and expressivity. Advanced diagnostic work of students' voice and speech habits are explored in relationship to work with contemporary, heightened, and stylized texts.

Prerequisite(s): THE 222.

THE 314 Advanced Voice and Speech for the Actor II 3 Credits

Continuing from THE 313, actors apply advanced principles of vocal production and speech work to contemporary, heightened and stylized texts.

Prerequisite(s): THE 313.

THE 315 Acting for the Camera 2 3 Credits

This course is a continuation of the study of acting for the camera.

Prerequisite(s): THE 300.

THE 317 Scenic Design 3 Credits

The study and application of design principles as related to the stage. Incorporates the design process, decor research, styles, materials, and construction technology.

Prerequisite(s): THE 118.

THE 318 Stage Lighting Design 3 Credits

The theory and practice of stage lighting as utilized in concept, dance, and theatre. Considers the nature of light, controlling light, color theory, electricity, electrical safety, and lighting design.

Prerequisite(s): THE 115 or THE 118.

THE 319 Costume Design 3 Credits

Introduction to tasks, skills and expertise of costume design and costuming techniques, relationship with other creative production and cast members. Students will create sketches and develop basic construction plans. Develop familiarity with fabrics, patterns, common challenges in costume design.

Prerequisite(s): THE 115 (for other Theatre majors) or THE 118 (for Design and Technology majors).

THE 325 Sound Design 3 Credits

Introduction to sound design and its diverse use and practice for the staged productions, e.g. plays, musicals, operas and dance.

Prerequisite(s): THE 115.

THE 329 Movement for the Actor III 3 Credits

This course is a continuation of study in movement training methodologies focusing on continued development of expressivity, ease, dynamics and authenticity in character development.

Prerequisite(s): THE 229.

THE 390 Production III 1 Credits

Students carry out an advanced level technical theatre crew position for one or more theatre, musical theatre, or dance productions during the semester of course registration. These positions include, but are not limited to, Designer, Production Stage Manager, Props Master, and Technical Director. This course may be taken up to three times for credit.

Prerequisite(s): JR or SR standing; 2 credits of THE 290 and related management/design course or permission of Instructor.

THE 400 Directing for the Stage I 3 Credits

The technique of play directing and production management. Lectures present aesthetic and theoretical concepts that are explored in workshops.

Prerequisite(s): THE 107, THE 115.

THE 401 Directing for the Stage II 3 Credits

This course is designed to provide students with an opportunity to practice and discuss the art of directing, building upon the fundamentals of directing studied in THE 400: Directing I. Further exploration of directing challenges and application of artistic vision is accomplished through the direction of scenes and short scripts.

Prerequisite(s): THE 400.

THE 410 Advanced Performance Workshop 3 Credits

An opportunity to work an entire semester on a specific style or period of theatre, e.g., Shakespeare, farce, Readers’ Theater.

Prerequisite(s): THE 107, THE 110.

THE 411 Advanced Performance Online Workshop 3 Credits

An opportunity to work an entire term on a specific style or period of theatre that is most conducive to online instruction.

Prerequisite(s): THE 107, THE 110.

THE 450 NY Experience: Professional Audition Technique and the Business of Acting 3 Credits

Students engage weekly with New York professionals to learn the business of acting and strategies for successful auditions in the NY Film, Television and Theatre industry. Students will participate in mock auditions with casting directors and theatre and on camera directors to refine audition skills. Travel costs to New York are the responsibility of the student.

THE 490 Independent Research and Study 1-4 Credits

Students may pursue a special topic for which they have prepared through prior course work. Only one project may be scheduled in a semester. The project may involve 1-4 Credits. Approval of the faculty sponsor, department chair, and dean required prior to enrollment.

Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing, good academic standing.

THE 491 Internship in Theater 1-12 Credits

Provides junior or senior theatre majors the practical experience of working within a professional theater environment. Students must be sponsored by a theatre professor. For each academic credit, interns must work 48 hours for the semester, or approximately 3.7 hours each week.

Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.

THE 493 Contemporary Theatre Ensemble 3 Credits

Contemporary Theatre Practice Majors will spend this seminar- style class exploring the myriad of positions that enable them to become true “theatre-makers” in the contemporary field, and will participate in at least one campus production.

Prerequisite(s): THE 190.

THE 495 Selected Topics in Theatre History 3 Credits

Intensive study of a particular topic in the theatre world not typically covered in other courses.

THE 496 Senior Internship 6-12 Credits

THE 497 Theatre Senior Showcase 1 Credits

This course is a senior level experience for BFA acting students, and acts as a bridge between life in the university and life as a professional actor. Through this course the students will, in collaboration with the teacher, compile and put together a showcase to introduce the students to casting and agent professionals in the industry by way of getting the showcase performance in front of a diverse range of industry professionals who will be useful in both casting and representing recently graduated talent.

THE 498 Senior Capstone 3 Credits

The senior capstone is intended for technical theatre students in their final year. Depending on the required abilities, students will be able to design sets, lights, costumes, props or sound for a mainstage show at Rider University, do research on topics related to technical Theatre, internships outside Rider University or work on projects that will improve the use of facilities, storage or equipment for Theater and Dance Department.

THE 499 Senior Honors Program 3 Credits

A senior honors program may be submitted in partial fulfillment of requirements for graduation with honors in fine arts. Honors work is limited to those departmental majors with a GPA of 3.5 in fine arts courses and cognates. The program, to be planned under the direction of a faculty advisor, will represent a culmination of demonstrated excellence in a specific area of fine arts. Candidates for honors in fine arts must be approved by the department chairperson and the faculty.

MTR 105 Musical Theatre Practicum 1 Credits

This course explores the literature of musical theatre vocal ensembles. It emphasizes examining a wide range of styles. This is a studio/academic class, not a performance ensemble.

MTR 109 Beginning Ballet I 1 Credits

This course introduces the basic elements of ballet technique. Technique is based on the five positions of the legs and feet, coupled with appropriate arm positions. The class consists of a basic ballet barre warm-up that includes stretching and developing strength and turn-out used in dance positions and combinations. Instruction includes jumping, turning, and connecting steps with movement. Ballet terminology is addressed.

MTR 111 Musical Theatre Lab 0 Credits

MTR 112 Advanced Ballet I 1 Credits

Continuation of MTR 109, building upon techniques learned in that course.

MTR 113 Beginning Ballet II 1 Credits

Intermediate ballet, expanding upon Ballet I and concentrating upon the American lineage of ballet training.

MTR 114 Advanced Ballet II 1 Credits

Continuation of MTR 113. Intermediate ballet, expanding upon Ballet I and concentrating upon the American lineage of ballet training.

MTR 120 Hist of American Music Theater 3 Credits

The history of the American Musical from the first American production in 1750 of Gay’s The Beggar’s Opera up to the present will be traced. Emphasis will be placed upon those common elements which are solely intrinsic to the American stage. Developments and imported ideas (e.g., The British Invasion) will be highlighted.

MTR 131 Music Theory for MT 3 Credits

Teaches students to understand musical form, structure, melody, rhythm and harmony by applying these concepts to musical theatre literature. Includes full analysis of musical theatre songs. Required in the first year.

MTR 132 Group Piano 1 Credits

Offers the musical theatre student appropriate keyboard technique to play any vocal part and to play a rudimentary accompaniment. Required of all second-year students.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 131.

MTR 133 Sight Singing for MT 3 Credits

Intensive class in reading music, designed for musical theatre students. Traditional solfeggio techniques used with musical theatre texts whenever possible. Required of first-year students.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 131.

MTR 209 Tap Dance I 1 Credits

Introduction to the basic elements of tap dancing. Tap technique is geared to enhance rhythm and motor skills, basic elements that will be used to connect several steps and movements into combinations. Other variations such as “soft shoe” or “clogging” are included.

MTR 210 Tap Dance II 1 Credits

Continuation of MTR 209. Combinations most often used in music theater productions are emphasized.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 209.

MTR 211 Ballet III 1 Credits

Intermediate ballet, expending upon Ballet II and concentrating upon the American lineage of ballet training.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 114.

MTR 212 Ballet IV 1 Credits

Continuation of MTR 211. Intermediate ballet, expanding upon Ballet III and concentrating upon the American lineage of ballet training.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 211.

MTR 215 MT Performance: Song as Text 3 Credits

In this course the student will learn how to develop a performance of musical text by making doable, actable choices and applying those choices to musical monologues – solo songs.

Prerequisite(s): THE 110.

MTR 216 Acting for Music Theater I 3 Credits

This professional skills course, intended for music theater majors, builds upon the student’s previous acting training. Through various exercises and activities (both individual and group), the student will begin to develop a clear method for preparation that addresses first their own instrument, and then (through various methods of analysis) the character and the play. Students will begin to utilize and apply the studied techniques and exercises to simple monologues and a scene. Behavioral truth will precede the more sophisticated studies of emotional truth.

MTR 217 Acting for Music Theater Major II 3 Credits

Continuation of MTR 216. Methods for preparation are expanded as students learn and experience techniques for exploring and developing characters. This semester will focus on the application of the skills and acting techniques studied in the first semester to the needs of dramatic and sung material. Students are expected to synthesize content and skills acquired in the Speech for the Actor, Body Awareness and Movement classes.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 216.

MTR 218 Musical Theatre Scene Study I 3 Credits

Scene study class exploring the literature of the musical theatre – emphasis placed on two- and three-character scenes. Required of all second-year students.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 215.

MTR 219 Musical Theatre Scene Study II 3 Credits

Further exploration of scenes in the musical theatre literature – emphasis on more complex scenes. Required of all third-year students.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 218.

MTR 251 Styles and Genres I 3 Credits

Focuses teaching and learning on the ways in which musical and textual understanding inform the interpretation and performing of representative composers from the Standard, Classical, and Traditional periods of musical theater. Composers to be studied will include Rodgers and Hammerstein, Lerner and Loewe, Kern, Berlin, Gershwin, Porter, Arlen, Blitstein and Weill.

Prerequisite(s): MUS 111, MUS 111L, THE 107, MTR 216.

MTR 252 Styles and Genres II 3 Credits

Focuses teaching and learning on the ways in which musical and textual understanding inform the interpretation and performing of representative composers from the Contemporary (Non-Pop/Rock) period of music theater. Composers to be studied will include Sondheim, Styne, Kander and Ebb, Guettel, Matby and Shire, and Bernstein.

Prerequisite(s): MUS 111, MUS 111L, THE 107, MTR 216.

MTR 253 Styles and Genres III 3 Credits

Focuses teaching and learning on the ways in which musical and textual understanding inform the interpretation and performing of representative composers from the Contemporary, Pop/Rock period of music theater. Composers to be studied will include Webber, Schwartz, Fenn, Flaherty, Menkin, Brown, LaChiusa, and Lippa.

Prerequisite(s): MUS 111, MUS 111L, THE 107, MTR 216.

MTR 255 Musical Theatre Repertoire I 3 Credits

This course provides the opportunity to encounter/examine the repertoire of the major musical theatre writers through the 1950s. The thrust of this class is split between studio work and academic work.

Prerequisite(s): THE 106 with a minimum grade of D and THE 311 with a minimum grade of D.

MTR 256 Musical Theater Repertoire II 3 Credits

This course provides the opportunity to encounter/examine the repertoire of the major musical theatre writers since the 1950s. The thrust of this class is split between studio work and academic work.

Prerequisite(s): THE 106, THE 107.

MTR 307 Tap III 1 Credits

This course is designed for the moderately advanced tap dancer. Course to be taken in the fall.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 210.

MTR 308 Tap IV 1 Credits

The course will allow the more advanced student to complete the work begun in Tap III.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 307.

MTR 309 Beginning Jazz Dance I 1 Credits

Based upon the ballet foundation, this course explores the expressive style of jazz dance, and basic Western theatrical dance forms and social dances used most often on the stage.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 109.

MTR 313 Ballet V 1 Credits

Advanced ballet, expanding upon Ballet IV and concentrating upon the American lineage of ballet training. Inclusion of advanced combinations, physical development and coordination skills.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 212.

MTR 314 Ballet VI 1 Credits

Continuation of MTR 313. Advanced ballet, expanding upon Ballet IV and concentrating upon the American lineage of ballet training. Inclusion of advanced combinations, physical development and coordination skills.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 313.

MTR 315 Advanced Jazz Dance I 1 Credits

Continuation of work begun in MTR 309.

MTR 316 Beginning Jazz Dance II 1 Credits

This course continues the work begun in MTR 309 and MTR 315.

MTR 317 MT Auditions:Preparation/Tech 3 Credits

This course, building upon skill-sets established in the Music Theatre singer-actor curriculum, will introduce and hone the required skill-sets for preparing to audition in Music Theatre. Genres and styles of music most often required for auditioning in the industry will be prepared and explored. An audition “book,” based upon the demands of the industry, as well as the most suitable material for each student will be built. When appropriate, guests from the industry will be invited to present master classes and evaluations in a “mock audition” process.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 207, MTR 216, MTR 217, MTR 492.

MTR 318 Advanced Jazz Dance II 1 Credits

This course continues the work begun in MTR 309, MTR 315 and MTR 316.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 211.

MTR 319 Jazz Dance III 1 Credits

This course continues the work begun in MTR 318.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 318 and MTR 212.

MTR 320 Jazz Dance IV 1 Credits

This course continues the work begun in MTR 319.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 319 and MTR 212.

MTR 335 Speech for the Actor 3 Credits

This course introduces and develops speech techniques, specifically in the areas of relaxation, posture and alignment, respiration, phonation, support, registration, resonance, and articulation. Students learn to consistently produce a free, resonant, fully supported speaking voice. Exercises will increase flexibility and range of speaking and will foster heightened responsiveness to feeling. Regular practice in the delivery of both impromptu and prepared monologues is required. This course includes studies in Neutral American Speech.

MTR 402 Directing Music Theater/Opera 3 Credits

This elective course investigates how conceptual ideas and the process of script analysis are used in putting together a music theatre production for performance. Instruction includes staging ideas and elements needed for a complete production. Other theatrical aspects of choreography, properties, costumes, lighting, and set design are addressed. It is recommended that students complete MTR 496 before taking MTR 402.

MTR 411 Musical Theatre Ensemble 1 Credits

MTR 415 Musical Theatre Dance I 1 Credits

This is the first capstone course in the Musical Theatre dance sequence. Practical and historical study of Broadway dance styles; main focus on jazz idiom. Emphasis placed on performance quality, auditioning skills, self-taping, and “how to swing/dance captain".

Prerequisite(s): Completion of Ballet, Tap, and Jazz requirements; senior standing.

MTR 416 Musical Theatre Dance II 1 Credits

This is the second capstone course in the Musical Theatre dance sequence. Emphasis is placed on other dance styles used on stage, film, music videos, and television. Primary focus is on Hip Hop and Street Jazz.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 415 with a minimum grade of C.

MTR 480 Dance for Performing Artist 3 Credits

This course is a culmination of the dance elements and forms studied in ballet, tap, and jazz dance. Context areas include movement used most often in performance of music theater and movement fundamentals applicable to all aspects of presentation and principle to refine and articulate the performer’s awareness and use of the body through singing and dance. Performance issues and movement as a basis for music and sound production are addressed.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 209, MTR 309.

MTR 490 Independent Research and Study 1-4 Credits

Students may pursue a special topic for which they have prepared through prior course work. Only one project may be scheduled in a semester. The project may involve 1-4 Credit hours. Approval of the faculty sponsor, department chair, and dean required prior to enrollment.

Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing, good academic standing.

MTR 491 Internship in Music Theater 1-12 Credits

Provides junior or senior musical theatre majors with the opportunity to gain practical experience working within a professional environment. Students must be sponsored by a musical theatre or theatre professor. For each academic credit, interns must work 48 hours for the semester, or approximately 3.7 hours each week.

Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.

MTR 492 Singing Actor: Music Theater 3 Credits

This semester combines all dramatic and musical studies to create an authentic and believable character that is both emotionally truthful and musically expressive. Music is studied as “script” and dramatic choices are prepared in relationship to all elements present in the score.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 216 and MTR 217.

MTR 493 Music Theater Production 1 Credits

Preparation and performance of a solo or ensemble role in a fully staged music theatre production. Concurrent participation in stage crew activities is required.

MTR 495 Special Topics in Theater Dance 1 Credits

This class covers discrete movement styles, techniques, or forms for the advanced dancer such as the choreography and techniques of Bob Fosse, Jerome Robbins, Jack Cole, and other theatrical dance choreographers.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 319, MTR 212, and MTR 308.

MTR 496 Music Theater Workshop 3 Credits

This class, building upon the foundational studies associated with preparation and exploration (both dramatic and musical), focuses on performances. Students are taught methods for synthesizing all former training in acting, music, and movement to the needs of the character and the play/score. Each student fully prepares at least two complete roles from the music theater repertoire. The class culminates in a performance of scenes--the Junior Cabaret!

Prerequisite(s): MTR 216, MTR 217, MTR 492.

MTR 497 Musical Theatre Senior Showcase 1 Credits

This course is a senior level capstone experience for BFA Musical Theatre students, and acts as a bridge between life in the university and life as a professional musical theatre performer. Through this course the students will, in collaboration with the teacher, compile and put together a showcase to introduce the students to casting and agent professionals in the industry by way of getting the showcase performance in front of a diverse range of industry professionals who will be useful in both casting and representing recently graduated talent. Only students who have successfully completed ALL prerequisite coursework may participate in the Senior Showcase. BA Theatre students with Musical Theatre Concentration may participate only if the prerequisites are met.

Prerequisite(s): MTR 415, MTR 207, MTR 216, MTR 217, MTR 492.

MTR 511 Music Theater Ensemble 1 Credits

The performance-based, auditioned music theater ensemble engages multiple singers/actors/dancers in performance, utilizing scenes from music theater literature as the primary material. Emphasis is placed upon group interaction and building an ensemble. This ensemble often is asked to perform for University sponsored events.