THEA Courses - Graduate Level
502. Seminar in Theatre Management I (3)
Prerequisites: Acceptance into the MFA Program.
Study of contemporary principles of management processes specifically targeted to people pursuing professional Theatre Arts Management careers. Principles and practices of marketing, development, fund-raising, and publicity are analyzed and assessed through research and study.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units. (2 hours lecture, 2 hours lab)
503. Leadership and the Arts (3)
Prerequisites: Acceptance into the MFA Program or senior standing and completion of THEA 476 or consent of instructor.
Study of contemporary principles of leadership and leadership development processes with special concern for application to people working in the arts. Context for leadership in arts organization is assessed and matched against students’ personal leadership styles.
Letter grade only (A-F). (2 hours lecture, 2 hours lab)
504. Managing the Not-For-Profit Arts Organization (3)
Prerequisites: Acceptance into the MFA Program or senior standing and completion of THEA 476 or consent of instructor.
Study of principles of organizational management as applied to not-for-profit arts organizations. Issues include strategic planning and analysis, organizing, staffing, leading and controlling. Additionally studied are principles and practices of fundraising in not-for-profit environment.
Letter grade only (A-F).
505. Theatre Management Internship (3)
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.
Required internship with local area theatre to provide management students with access to nationally recognized companies and the opportunity to work with leaders in the field.
Letter grade only (A-F).
507. Entertainment Law (3)
Prerequisite: Acceptance into the MFA Program.
Overview of legal aspects of entertainment business, especially in performing arts.
Letter grade only (A-F).
517. Repertory Theatre I (2)
Prerequisites: Acceptance into the MFA Program.
Design, preparation, rehearsals and performances of selected plays in California Repertory Company and University Players.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 4 units (6 hours lab)
518. Repertory Theatre II (2)
Prerequisites: Acceptance into the MFA Program.
Design, preparation, rehearsals and performances of selected plays in California Repertory Company and University Players.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 4 units (6 hours lab)
519. Repertory Theatre III (2)
Prerequisites: Acceptance into the MFA Program.
Design, preparation, rehearsals and performances of selected plays in California Repertory Company and University Players.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 4 units. (6 hours lab)
520A. Voice (3)
Practical study of vocal production for the actor and theory and practice of teaching voice and speech.
Letter grade only (A-F). (2 hours seminar, 2 hours activity)
520B. Voice (3)
Application of vocal technique into various styles of verse and prose for meaningful vocal expressiveness and into the creation and performance of self-scripted text.
Letter grade only (A-F). (2 hours seminar, 2 hours activity)
521A.Speech (3)
Practical study of speech production for the actor and theory and practice of the teaching of speech.
Letter grade only (A-F). (2 hours seminar, 2 hours activity)
521B. Speech (3)
Analysis and development of accents for performance and presentation.
Letter grade only (A-F). (2 hours seminar, 2 hours activity)
523. Theory and Practice of Contemporary Theatre (3)
Critical exploration of major schools of thought between 1980-present including styles, genres and both national and international trends. Contributions of theatre practitioners and theorists and role of audience in this period.
Letter grade only (A-F).
524. Dramaturgy (3)
Prerequisite: Acceptance into the MFA Program.
Dramaturgical approaches to textual analysis, dramatic structure and the theatrical event.
Letter grade only (A-F).
525. Theatrical Critical Theory (3)
History, analysis and application of dramatic critical theory (3 hours seminar)
Letter Grade Only (A-F)
526./426. Dramatic Theory and Criticism (3)
Study of the major theories of dramatic literature and performance. Analysis of dramatic works in relationship to theory, cultural context, and critical methodologies.
Letter grade only (A-F).
530A. Acting I (3)
Praxis, theory and history related to teaching the art of acting. Focus is on work on role and dramatic texts from American Psychological Realism.
etter grade only (A-F). (2 hours seminar, 2 hours activity).
530B. Acting I (3)
Prerequisite: THEA 530A.
Praxis, theory and history related to teaching the art of acting. Focus is on work on the role and dramatic texts from Russian Psychological Realism.
Letter grade only (A-F). (2 hours seminar, 2 hours activity).
531A. Acting II (3)
Praxis, theory and history related to the texts of William Shakespeare. A variety of approaches will be applied to acting and teaching methodologies when working in the dramatic canon of William Shakespeare.
Letter grade only (A-F). (2 hours seminar, 2 hours activity).
531B. Acting II (3)
Prerequisite: THEA 531A.
Praxis, theory and history related to acting in the dramatic texts of non- linear existential, absurdist authors as well as acting on camera in screenplays and teleplays. A variety of approaches will be applied to acting and teaching methodologies.
Letter grade only (A-F). (2 hours seminar, 2 hours activity).
540. Non-traditional Material Use in the Theatre (2)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Creative use of non-traditional materials in the design and fabrication of props, accessories and set dressing. Exploration into decorative techniques and processes in fabrication and finishing.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
541. Portfolio Development (3)
Study of content and presentation forms of designer’s portfolio, resume and cover letter. Acquaints the designer/technician with interview skills and practical business information.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
543./443. Special Applications In Theatrical Makeup (3)
Prerequisite: THEA 344 or consent of instructor.
Corequisite: THEA 517 or THEA 518 or THEA 519
Special effects and new trends in theatrical makeup design techniques for characterization and style. Design, preparation and application of theatrical makeup for University sponsored productions.
Letter grade only (A-F). (2 hours lecture, 2 hours lab.)
544. Visual Concepts in Theatre Design (3)
Foundations in visual conceptualization emphasizing development of visual discipline, creative skills and the poetic nature of theatre design.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
545. Computer Aided Design for the Theatre (2)
Applications of two/three dimensional computer aided design/drafting programs to problems in technical theatre and design. Course concentrates on application of 2D-CADD programs to common theatrical drafting problems. Course explores use of 3D-CADD programs as design tools in theatrical spaces.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
546A. Advanced Costume Design I (2)
Development of costume design through character and script analysis, and understanding of line, space, color and texture.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
546B. Advanced Costume Design I (2)
Prerequisite: THEA 546A or consent of instructor.
Exploration of elements of design as demanded by a variety of scripts and styles.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
547./447. Costume Technical Skills (3)
Prerequisite: THEA 101, THEA 146, or consent of instructor.
Analysis of structure of costumes and accessories. Advanced technical projects using materials, patterning and construction methods in costume and accessories. Supervision in practical application of these elements in University sponsored productions.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated for a maximum of 6 units in different semesters. (2 hrs. lecture, 2 hrs. lab).
548A. Advanced Lighting Design I (2)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Techniques of designing lighting for various stage forms.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
548B. Advanced Lighting Design I (2)
Prerequisite: THEA 548A or consent of instructor.
Creative planning and development of lighting designs for specific productions.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
550. Computer Graphics for Theatre (3)
A comprehensive study of tools and techniques incorporated in Adobe PhotoShop and their application to theatre. Techniques in scanning, digital image manipulation and exporting to hard and soft copies are covered.
Letter grade only (A-F). (1 hour lecture, 2 hours lab)
552. Collaborative Studies (3)
Explores aesthetic visions, directorial approaches, dramaturgical practices and performance styles. Use of collaborative study and presentation to expand creativity with the integration of methodologies as seen in professional arenas.
Letter grade only (A-F). (3 hours seminar)
554. Textile Applications in Theatre Design (2)
Exploration and creative application of techniques of manipulating, painting and dyeing textiles for theatrical design.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
555. Virtual and Automated Lighting Design (2)
Comprehensive study in techniques of virtual and automated lighting design. Course includes practical instruction in WYSIWYG virtual lighting software; Emphasis Control software and hardware; Vari*Lite, Martin, and High End automated fixtures, and the Catalyst Media Server.
Letter grade only (A-F). (Activity 4 hours)
556A. Advanced Costume Design II (2)
Development of skills in visual communication and style, including advanced rendering techniques and presentation.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
556B. Advanced Costume Design II (2)
Prerequisite: THEA 556A or consent of instructor.
Development of skills in research, interpretation, conceptualization and integrating multiple sources in design.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
564A. Movement I (3)
Practical study in movement fundamentals, body mechanics, and non-verbal communication through the lens of several diverse theories. Theory and practice of the teaching of movement for actors.
Letter grade only (A-F). (2 hours seminar, 2 hours activity).
564B. Movement I (3)
Analytical and practical exploration of movement principles of weight, space, time, and energy and their application to the acting process
Letter grade only (A-F). (2 hours seminar, 2 hours activity).
565A. Movement II (3)
Practical study of clown work and mime for the actor and study in theory and practice of teaching clown and mime.
Letter grade only (A-F). (2 hours seminar, 2 hours activity).
565B. Movement II (3)
Practical and theoretical study of armed and unarmed combat for the stage. Covers technique, safety, choreography, and application to acting process.
Letter grade only (A-F). (2 hours seminar, 2 hours activity).
574. Directing (3)
Analysis and application of theatre directing theory in relation to the teaching of directorial research, textual analysis, conceptualization and collaborative design and rehearsal techniques
Letter Grade only (A-F) 2 hours seminar, 2 hours activity
580A. Scene Design I (2)
Development of scene design through script analysis and understanding of space, form, line, color, texture and mood. Planning and development of scenic rendering and model.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
580B. Scene Design I (2)
Prerequisite: THEA 580A or consent of instructor.
Exploration of elements of scenic design as demanded by a variety of scripts and styles with specific challenges and complex production format.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
581. Scenographic Techniques (2)
Study of drafting techniques used to translate designer’s vision to finished set on stage. Includes both traditional and computer aided design and drafting tools.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
583. Theatrical Patterning Methods (2)
Exploration of fitting, advanced patterning and construction techniques. Projects in fitting problems, flat patterning, draping, understructures and tailoring for theatre.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
584. Rendering and Painting for Theatre (2)
Introduction to rendering basics and painting stressing links to art of theatre design. Developing ability to depict form and space. Emphasizes development of visual discipline, drawing and rendering techniques used in visual presentation of stage design and scenic painting.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
585A. Scene Design II (2)
Projects in scene design for the multi-set play. Consideration of stylistic unity, current trends and approaches as well as shifting problems. Development of advanced rendering techniques.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
585B. Scene Design II (2)
Prerequisite: THEA 585A or consent of instructor.
Further development of skills in scene design for multi-set play. Development of advanced model making techniques.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
590. Selected Topics - Graduation Design (3)
Prerequisite: Consent of Instructor.
Advanced design projects and concepts with faculty supervision.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated for a maximum of 9 units in different semesters. Topics announced in the Schedule of Classes.
- C. Costumer
D. Scenery
N. Lighting
602. Seminar in Theatre Management II (3)
Prerequisites: Acceptance into the MFA Program.
Study of application of contemporary princip les of management processes specifically targeted to people pursuing professional Theatre Arts Management careers. Applications of principles and practices of marketing, development, fund-raising, and publicity are analyzed and assessed through research and study.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 9 units.
603. Producing Commercial Theatre (3)
Prerequisite: Acceptance into MFA Program
Examination of all facets of professional theatre production including off-Broadway, Broadway, regional and stock operations.
Letter grade only (A-F).
614. Advanced Period Scene Study (3)
Prerequisite: Acceptance by audition into MFA program.
Acting in Shakespeare and advanced scene study from selected theatrical periods and plays. Analysis and exercises include language, background, and human behavior.
Letter grade only (A-F).
628. Writing for the Theatre Professional (3)
Prerequisite: Admission to Theatre Arts MFA program
Development and practice of research, critical thinking, and writing skills for Theatre
Letter grade only (A-F).
648A. Advanced Lighting Design II (2)
Direct application of cueing and structuring of the total lighting design within the time constraints of rehearsal and production.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
648B. Advanced Lighting Design II (2)
Prerequisites: THEA 648A or consent of instructor.
Development of skills in lighting design process for a variety of scripts and styles with specific challenges and complex production formats.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
649A. Advanced Lighting Design III (2)
Development of skills in lighting for musical, opera, video, and dance.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
649B. Advanced Lighting Design III (2)
Prerequisite: THEA 649A or consent of instructor.
Development of skills in lighting for other production venues.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
656A. Advanced Costume Design III (2)
Development of skills in costume design for musical, opera, and dance.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
656B. Advanced Costume Design III (2)
Prerequisite: THEA 656A or consent of instructor.
Development of skills in costume design for other production venues.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
685A. Scene Design III (2)
Development of skills in scene design for musical, opera, and dance.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
685B. Scene Design III (2)
Prerequisites: THEA 685A or consent of instructor.
Further development of skills in scene design for other production venues.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
686. Theatrical Tailoring (2)
Investigation of tailored garments and understructures in selected historical periods. Projects in traditional and contemporary hand machine tailoring techniques, and in specialized construction for undergarments. Supervision in practical application of these elements in university sponsored productions.
Letter grade only (A-F). (4 hours lab)
690. Selected Topics in Theatre (1-3)
Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.
Topics of current interest in Theatre Arts selected for intensive study.
Letter grade only. (A-F). May be taken for maximum of 9 units. Topics announced in the Schedule of Classes. (2 hours lecture, 2 hours lab.)
694. Selected Topics in Theatre Arts (3)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Advanced individual projects with faculty supervision in an area of Theatre Arts specialization.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 9 units. Limited to 3 units in any one area per semester and no more than 6 units in one semester with a total of 9 units in any one area. Topics announced in the Schedule of Classes.
- A. Acting
- B. Directing
- C. Costumes
- D. Scenery
- F. Playwriting
- J. Theatre History
- K. Theatre Criticism
- L. Movement
- M. Makeup
- N. Lighting
- O. Voice
- P. Stage Management
- Q. Theatre Management
696. Aesthetic Theory and Conceptualization (3)
Aesthetic theory as it applies to the creative act.
Letter grade only (A-F).
699. MFA Thesis/Project (1-6)
Prerequisite: Advancement to candidacy and consent of department chair.
Planning, preparation and completion of thesis related to field of specialization.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units.
