Theater Classes

THEATRE 1 - Introduction to Theatre

Open to All Students

Course Description:

This class will survey the development of theatre and its impact on culture throughout history. The student will practice theatrical writing techniques, implement various performance styles, and use technical theatre skills. The goal of this course is to develop creative thinking skills which will lead to innovative tendencies in the student’s later professional life. The student will be able to problem solve and develop creative solutions to practical problems, as well as practice respect and professional discipline.

THEATRE 2 - Performance 

Prerequisite: Introduction to Theater

Course Description: 

This class will evaluate the practical implications of various acting techniques through experimentation and application. The student will understand the influence of body language and vocal inflection in modern communication and apply the particulars both in a variety of scenarios. The goal of this course is to develop creative thinking skills which will lead to innovative tendencies in the student’s later professional life. The student will be able to problem solve and develop creative solutions to practical problems, as well as practice respect and professional discipline. 

THEATRE 3 - Stagecraft
Prerequisite: Introduction to Theater

Course Desccription: 

This class will focus on a number of hands-on skills associated with stage craftsmanship. The student will develop competence with basic crafting, building, and drafting skills which will be useful in many aspects of a student’s personal and future professional life. The goal of this course is to apply the creative thinking skills acquired in previous Theatre classes and further develop innovative tendencies. The student will problem solve, develop and apply creative solutions to practical problems, as well as practice respect and professional discipline.

THEATRE 4 - Theater Production
Prerequisite: Introduction to Theater AND successful application

Course Description: 
In this course, students will work as a class to develop an original play that is written, researched, designed, acted, crewed, promoted, and managed entirely and only by themselves. The goal of this course is to simulate a professional work environment, wherein students engage as coworkers striving to achieve a shared vision. Students will innovate, practice professional courtesy, demonstrate responsibility and teamwork, and apply practical problem-solving skills.  STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO PARTICIPATE IN BOTH AFTER-SCHOOL PERFORMANCES.
(One in December, one in April.)

Dual Enrollment THEA 1030 through Austin Peay State University
Open to Juniors and Seniors who qualify for admission to APSU
(online course/independent study)

Course Description: 
A survey course to develop an awareness of the nature of theatrical art and its place in human culture. Incorporates study of history, theory, and practice of theatrical art. This is not a performance course. This course will investigate the roles of theatre artists (actors, designers, directors & writers) as they work to create a source of entertainment for the audience. Through discussion, exercises and written work, the student will explore this multi-faceted topic.

REQUIRED TEXT: 
The Art of Theatre, Then and Now: A Concise Introduction
Downs/Wright/Ramsey
ISBN: 978-1111438311