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Theatre and Its Elements: Intro to Theater (THTR 1131)
Total Credits:
3
Lecture Credits:
3
Description:
This is a lecture-discussion course that explores the diversity of the live theater experience through reading assignments, attendance at live theatrical performances, video viewing and in-class discussions. Topics will include multicultural plays and dramatic structure; audience demographics; group response to live theater; local theater-going; and an exploration of the political, social and economic impact of theater in contemporary society. You will learn to become a more informed theater-goer and to gain individual awareness of being in the audience.
Topical Outline:
1. The social and historic context of the theatre, including exploration of the history and evolution of theatre ritual performance, and other cultural expression
2. The elements of performance and of different theatre spaces
3. The roles and duties of different theatre artists involved in a production
4. Theatrical criticism
5. Dramatic text and literature and the analysis of such pieces
6. Live theatre by experiencing the theatre arts in practice and engaging with theatre artists
Learning Outcomes:
1. Articulate the ways in which theatre has evolved and has been an integral part of culture and society throughout history, and how theatre has been shaped by – and has shaped – the culture and society in which it was created
2. Analyze, research and evaluate dramatic literature both by reading scripts and by viewing performances; and understand the influences each particular society has on the playwrights and major themes within their work
3. Define and analyze performance elements, different theatre spaces, and the various collaborators needed for a theatrical production, including producers, directors, designers, actors, technicians, etc.
4. Evaluate and articulate an informed response to live theatre productions, utilizing knowledge and skills gained
Prerequisites:
Placement into
READ 0200 or
ESOL 0052 or completion of
READ 0100 or
ESOL 0042
MnTC: