Theatre (THEA)
105.
Introduction to Theatre.
(3)
This course provides an introduction to the study of theatre. Students will examine various components that comprise theatre, such as acting, directing, playwriting, dramaturgy, scenic and costume design, stagecraft, spectatorship, history, theory, and criticism.
Meets New Mexico Lower-Division General Education Common Core Curriculum Area V: Humanities and Fine Arts (NMCCN 1113).
130.
Acting I.
(3)
Exploration of the basic fundamentals of acting through exercises, games and improvisation. Development of the imaginative, physical and emotional skills of the actor.
Meets New Mexico Lower-Division General Education Common Core Curriculum Area V: Humanities and Fine Arts.
192.
Stagecraft I.
(3)
Basic techniques, tools and materials for construction of stage scenery. Crew assignments on departmental production required.
{Fall, Spring}
194.
Introduction to Costuming for Performance and New Media.
(3)
Basic techniques, tools, materials of costume construction. Crew assignment on departmental production required.
Meets New Mexico Lower-Division General Education Common Core Curriculum Area V: Humanities and Fine Arts.
{Fall, Spring}
196.
Introduction to Stage Lighting.
(3)
Basic techniques of stage lighting. Crew assignment on departmental production required.
{Fall, Spring}
200.
Theatre Practicum.
(1 to a maximum of 4 Δ)
Participation in University theatre season in production capacity. May not duplicate other course assignments.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
230.
Acting II.
(3)
Continued exploration of acting technique. Emphasis on methods of study and preparation for presentation of scenework drawn from contemporary drama. Integration of voice and movement skills with acting technique.
Prerequisite: 130.
231.
Voice for the Actor I.
(3)
Basic vocal and physical skills with emphasis on relaxation, breath, and freeing the voice. Consideration of placement, articulation and support. Voice work is combined with movement to connect the expressive impulse to the entire body.
Pre- or corequisite: 130.
232.
Movement for the Stage I.
(3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
An exploration of the art of acting primarily through the focus on body awareness, dynamic movement techniques, and physical characterization.
290.
Stagecraft II.
(3)
Advanced techniques of stage crafts. Crew assignment on departmental production required.
Prerequisite: 192.
{Spring}
292.
Rendering for Stage, Screen, and New Media.
(3)
Introduction to basic drawing skills used in the presentation of theatrical designs for stage, film, and digital media. Emphasis is given to accurate representation of the human figure, perspective, and lighting using different mediums.
296.
Lighting Methods and Equipment.
(3)
Theory and practice of lighting for the stage. Crew assignment on departmental production required.
Prerequisite: 196.
300.
Studies in Theatre.
(1-3 to a maximum of 9 Δ)
Lecture and studio study on various topics in Theatre.
304.
Make-Up Design for Performance and New Media.
(3)
Basic techniques of make up design for stage, film and television through the use of a variety of materials.
314.
Pattern Development.
(3)
An introduction to pattern development using a combination of techniques: flat patterning, slash and spread, and draping.
Prerequisite: 194.
{Fall, odd numbered years}
328.
Musical Theatre.
(3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Training in the singing and acting styles required for performance in musical theatre.
Pre- or corequisite: 130.
330.
Acting III.
(3)
Continued exploration of advanced acting technique. Intensive scenework focusing on works of modern dramatists.
Prerequisite: 230.
331.
Voice for the Actor II.
(3)
Solidification and expansion of the skills learned in 231. Development of the actor's vocal and physical options. Applications to character and text.
Prerequisite: 231.
332.
Speech and Dialects for the Stage.
(3)
Principles of stage speech and dialect acquisition techniques. Introduction to the use of the International Phonetic Alphabet, application of acquired dialects to performance.
Prerequisite: 231.
333.
Topics in Physical Theatre.
(3 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
This course explores advanced movement techniques through text, scenes, monologues and in-class exercises. We will work in-depth with imagination, and the concepts of psychological gesture and invisible body.
334.
History of Fashion and Costumes.
(3)
Historical and regional study and analysis of the cultural and sociological importance of what people wear and how they decorate and distort their bodies.
345.
Theatre History I.
(3)
Serves as an introduction to the literatures, histories, theories, and practices of world theatre, drama, and performance from antiquity to through the early modern period.
346.
Theatre History II.
(3)
Serves as an introduction to the literatures, histories, theories, and practices of world theatre, drama, and performance from the early modern period to the present.
350.
Script Analysis.
(3)
The nature of the staged dramatic work: analysis of plays with representative readings from the history of dramatic literature.
355.
Playwriting I.
(3)
A workshop for students who have little or no previous experience in writing plays. Students will be introduced to a variety of technical, structural, and imaginative considerations through exercises, readings, and discussions.
366.
Stage Management.
(2)
The role, functions and duties of the stage manager in production, rehearsal and performance.
Corequisite: 367.
367.
Stage Management Production Laboratory.
(1 to a maximum of 3 Δ)
The purpose of this course is to provide a laboratory for student Stage Managers in which they can acquire and experiment with practical stage management skills.
Corequisite: 366.
370.
2D Computer-Aided Drafting for Design.
(3)
Covers CAD and computer modeling, including the basic types of drawings and formats. Techniques and conventions unique to entertainment/theatre/television/film are also covered. Of special interest for architects, theatrical designers, art directors, etc.
371.
Digital Imagery and Production.
(3)
For students wishing to create conceptual/multi-media imagery for gallery, performance and similar installations. Covers planning, techniques and equipment, plus teaches software such as PhotoShop, Painter, Illustrator. Students complete a series of conceptual projects.
387.
Design History and Styles for Performance and New Media.
(3)
A multimedia introduction to the craft, history and styles of costume, lighting, scenery and theatre space design for performance. A study of the influence of seminal figures in design from the renaissance to the present.
390.
Scenic Painting for Stage and Screen.
(3)
Principles and practice of scenic painting techniques, including: color mixing, textures, faux finishes, and large scale backdrop painting.
Prerequisite: 192 and 292.
391.
Advanced Scenic Techniques.
(3 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
Principles and practice of advanced scenic techniques including rigging, structural analysis, OSHA safety, scene painting and technical direction.
392.
Introduction to Scenic Design for Performance and New Media.
(3)
Course covers the techniques, goals and concepts of scenic design for theatre, television, film, and new media. Theoretical, conceptual, and practical issues are addressed. Students complete a series of conceptual design projects.
Prerequisite: 105 and 292.
394.
Costume Design for Performance and New Media.
(3)
Exploration of costume design for stage, film and television concentrating on design theory, visual communication, rendering techniques and portfolio presentation. Drawing skills required.
Prerequisite: 105 and 194.
396.
Lighting Design I.
(3)
Basics of lighting design, emphasis on play analysis, light plots and plugging charts. Crew assignment on departmental production required.
Prerequisite: 105 and 196.
{Fall}
397.
Sound for Performance.
(3)
Introduction to the equipment and techniques of sound for performance. Hands on experience with microphones, mixers, processors, digital recordings, CDs and computer programs for sound production.
398.
Costume Techniques.
(3)
Principles and practice of advanced costuming techniques like millinery, mask making, corsetry, wigs, jewelry and fabric dyeing.
Prerequisite: 194.
399.
Special Problems in Theatre and Production.
(1-3 to a maximum of 9 Δ)
Intensive study and practice of special techniques and materials in theatre and production.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
{Offered upon demand}
403.
Directing I.
(3)
Introduces students to theories and practices of directing for the theatre. Through extensive reading and practical directing experience, students develop skills such as conducting research; scene and structural analysis; and working with actors, among others.
Prerequisite: 105 and 130.
404 / 504.
Directing II.
(3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Advanced study of the special problems in directing required by specific styles and stagings. Directing of a one-act script is required. Topics vary.
Prerequisite: 403.
428.
Topics in Musical Theatre.
(3 to a maximum of 9 Δ)
Course material varies, including: training in audition preparation, ensemble performance, repertoire, musical theatre movement and cabaret performance.
Prerequisite: 328.
Pre- or corequisite: 230.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
431.
Advanced Acting: Tools for Acting the Classical Repertory [Advanced Acting: Classical Styles].
(3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
In this course, students acquire the dramaturgical, linguistic, and physical skills needed to bring the classical repertory to life on the stage.
Prerequisite: 330.
432.
Advanced Acting- Beyond Realism.
(3 to a maximum of 9 Δ)
Development of acting skills necessary to perform plays written in a variety of styles that depart from realism. Authors may include: Beckett, Ionesco, Genet, Brecht, Fornes, Parks, Wellman, etc.
Prerequisite: 330.
434.
Performance Art.
(3 to a maximum of 9 Δ)
Students create and perform original acts of live art combining various performance disciplines. Studio work will be supplemented by lectures examining performance art and artist. The role of performance in our lives will be probed.
437.
Acting-Entering the Profession.
(3)
Preparation for a career as a performer, with focus on theatrical and film auditions, callbacks and interviews. Includes practical information on professional etiquette, marketing and creating a strong career plan.
Pre- or corequisite: 330.
445 / 545.
Topics in Performance [Topics in Theatre History and Criticism].
(3 to a maximum of 9 Δ)
This interdisciplinary seminar integrates practice and theory to conduct in-depth explorations of themes, issues, and methods in performance. Topics vary by semester.
446 [446 / 546].
Theories of Performance [Theories of Theatre].
(3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
An introduction to the theories undergirding the dynamic fields of theatre and performance studies its methodologies, genealogies, and current trends. This seminar investigates performance as a site and method of study.
*455.
Playwriting II.
(3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
An advanced workshop in playwriting. Students examine the traditional elements of dramatic structure, and explore contemporary tactics for the composition and revision of new plays. Open to students across disciplines.
Prerequisite: 355.
*456L.
Playwriting Laboratory.
(3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
A playwriting workshop for advanced undergraduate playwrights, focused on a specific theme, style, or dramaturgical question.
457.
Advanced Dramatic Writing Workshop.
(3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
An advanced playwriting workshop focused on the composition and revision of evening-length performances and plays, with an emphasis on public presentation.
{Fall}
458 / 558.
Screenwriting.
(3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Investigation of the art of writing the feature-length film. Study is performed in tandem with the development of a treatment and a script with revisions.
465 / 565.
Live Performance: International Theatre Festival Immersion.
(3-4, may be repeated three times Δ)
This study-abroad course takes theatre festivals as its classroom, and immerses students in the most cutting-edge contemporary performances. Students are exposed to a wide variety of performances from a broad global context.
466.
Stage Management II.
(3)
The study of the different practice and techniques of stage management for theatre, music theatre, opera, and dance. Emphasis on developing advanced skills needed for this collaborative art form.
Prerequisite: 366 and 367.
468 / 568.
Navajo Expressive Culture.
(3)
(Also offered as AMST 468, ANTH 468/568, MUS 468/568)
Examination of contemporary Diné (Navajo) politics and art (music, Navajo language, photography, dance, radio, filmmaking, comedy, weaving, poetry). Weekly guest speakers, readings from ethnomusicology, anthropology, critical indigenous studies. Includes overnight field trip to Navajo Nation.
470.
3D Modeling and Visualization for Design.
(3)
For students wishing to use computers to explore the aesthetics of space/time/volume. Covers techniques in high-end modeling/animation of spaces/environments, sophisticated visualization software, and advanced presentation via image, sound and video.
Prerequisite: 370.
472.
Prop Design and Construction.
(3)
Provides practical and special techniques for theatre production through play analysis, budgeting, design, and construction in props. Will encourage creative and critical thinking skills, and stimulate the development of a personal aesthetic.
Prerequisite: 292 and 370.
474.
Production Performance.
(0, may be repeated 7 times)
A project-based course in which students participate in realized productions within the department and under the direction of various faculty members. Students work hands-on learning and refining the professional skills needed in the entertainment industry.
475 / 575.
Special Topics in Computers for Design.
(1-3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Intensive study and practice in computers and technology for design and performance. Topics vary.
{Offered on demand}
481.
Costume Design and Technology Project.
(1-3 to a maximum of 9 Δ)
A project-based course in which students participate in realized productions within the department and under the direction of various faculty members. Students work hands-on learning and refining the professional skills needed in the entertainment industry.
Prerequisite: 394 and 494.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
482.
Scene Design and Technology Project.
(1-3 to a maximum of 3 Δ)
Advanced production work in set design and technology for an actual performance under the supervision of the design faculty. Presentation of portfolio on finished project to design committee necessary for final grade. Admission by portfolio.
Prerequisite: 392.
486.
Lighting Design II.
(3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Emphasis on designing for various types of stages. Crew assignment on departmental production required.
Prerequisite: 396.
{Spring}
487 / 587.
Contemporary Interdisciplinary Topics.
(3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
(Also offered as ARTH, DANC, MUS 487 / 587; MA *487)
Analyzes major instances of interdisciplinary influence and collaboration in the present day.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
{Spring}
488.
Lighting Design and Technology Project.
(1-3 to a maximum of 3 Δ)
Advanced production work in lighting design and technology for an actual performance under the supervision of the design faculty. Presentation of portfolio on finished project to design committee necessary for final grade. Admission by portfolio.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
492.
Advanced Scene Design for Performance and New Media.
(3)
Study of the practice and techniques of scenic design for theatre, opera and dance. Emphasis on developing personal artistic vision in a collaborative art form. Students complete conceptual design projects.
Prerequisite: 392.
494.
Advanced Costume Design for Performance and New Media.
(3)
Advanced work in costume design, concentrating on student projects for dance, stage, film and television. Portfolio presentation required.
Prerequisite: 394.
495.
Studies in Theatre.
(1-3 to a maximum of 9 Δ)
Lecture and studio study on various topics in theatre.
496 / 596.
Student Production Project.
(1-3 to a maximum of 9 Δ)
Advanced studies in Theatre under the supervision of an individual faculty member. This study must conclude in a project. This study may not be substitute for any course offered by the Theatre Program.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
497 / 597.
Independent Study.
(2-3 to a maximum of 9 Δ)
Advanced studies and research in Theatre under the supervision of an individual faculty member. This study must conclude in a written project. This study may not substitute for any course offered by the Theatre Program. All projects must be approved by the Department.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
498.
Design Seminar.
(3)
Explores current topics and trends in contemporary design aesthetics, portfolio and resume preparation, and discussions on the business of theatrical design and related industries. Capstone course intended for students preparing for graduation.
{Fall}
499.
Departmental Honors.
(3-6 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Students achieving an overall grade point of 3.50 will qualify to apply for departmental honors which requires a research or creative project with supporting written document.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
500.
Introduction to Graduate Studies.
(3)
Research methods for performing arts including development of working bibliography, types of documentation, investigation of research materials and resources in theatre and dance. Includes a survey of main types of studies undertaken in theatre arts and dance. Required of all entering graduate students.
{Fall}
503.
Performance Theory.
(3)
(Also offered as DANC 503)
An introduction to the theories undergirding the dynamic fields of theatre and performance studies its methodologies, genealogies, and current trends. This seminar investigates performance as a site and method of study.
{Spring, even-numbered years}
504 / 404.
Directing II.
(3, no limit Δ)
Advanced study of the special problems in directing required by specific styles and stagings. Directing of a one-act script is required. Topics vary.
Prerequisite: 403.
{Spring}
506.
Critical Issues in the Performing Arts.
(3)
(Also offered as DANC 506)
Examination of major problems and questions arising from interaction between the performing arts and the political, economic and social conditions in which they live. Survey of major figures in contemporary performing arts.
512.
Graduate Seminar.
(3 to a maximum of 9 Δ)
Topical seminars in the areas of Dramatic Writing, Directing and Theatre Education.
529.
Advanced Topics in Theatre and Dance.
(1-3 to a maximum of 9 Δ)
545 / 445.
Topics in Performance [Topics in Theatre History and Criticism].
(3 to a maximum of 9 Δ)
This interdisciplinary seminar integrates practice and theory to conduct in-depth explorations of themes, issues, and methods in performance. Topics vary by semester.
551.
Problems.
(1-3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
555.
Dramatic Writing I.
(4 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
A graduate workshop in dramatic writing. Students explore traditional theories of dramaturgy as well as generate and revise original plays and texts for performance. Phase One of an integrated experience in graduate dramatic writing.
556.
Dramatic Writing II.
(4 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
A graduate workshop in dramatic writing. Students examine experimental and anti-realistic theories of dramaturgy and generate and revise original plays and texts for performance. Second phase of an integrated experience in graduate dramatic writing.
Prerequisite: 555.
557.
The Writer's Stage III.
(4 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
A graduate workshop in dramatic writing, focused on the revision and improvement of existing scripts.
558 / 458.
Screenwriting.
(3 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
Investigation of the art of writing the feature-length film. The analysis of concept, premise and social arena to develop the student’s own original screenplay to include at least one major set of revisions.
559.
Topics in Dramatic Writing.
(3 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
Selected topics in writing for performance.
565 / 465.
Live Performance: International Theatre Festival Immersion.
(3-4, may be repeated three times Δ)
This study-abroad course takes theatre festivals as its classroom, and immerses students in the most cutting-edge contemporary performances. Students are exposed to a wide variety of performances from a broad global context.
568 / 468.
Navajo Expressive Culture.
(3)
(Also offered as AMST 468, ANTH 568/468, MUS 568/468)
Examination of contemporary Diné (Navajo) politics and art (music, Navajo language, photography, dance, radio, filmmaking, comedy, weaving, poetry). Weekly guest speakers, readings from ethnomusicology, anthropology, critical indigenous studies. Includes overnight field trip to Navajo Nation.
575 / 475.
Special Topics in Computers for Design.
(1-3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Intensive study and practice in computers and technology for design and performance. Topics vary.
{Offered on demand}
587 / 487.
Contemporary Interdisciplinary Topics.
(3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
(Also offered as ARTH, DANC, MUS 587 / 487; MA *487)
Analyzes major instances of interdisciplinary influence and collaboration in the present day.
{Spring}
596 / 496.
Student Production Project.
(1-3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Advanced studies in Theatre under the supervision of an individual faculty member. This study must conclude in a project. This study may not substitute for any course offered by the Theatre Program.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
597 / 497.
Independent Study.
(2-3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Restriction: permission of instructor.
{Fall, Spring}
598.
Master's Essay in Theatre and Dance.
(3)
Offered for students who have been advanced to candidacy and who have elected Plan II.
599.
Master's Thesis.
(1-6, no limit Δ)
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
699.
Dissertation.
(3-12, no limit Δ)
Submission of a major work, full length play or screen play that is shown in a public presentation as a staged concert reading or if approved, in a more comprehensive presentation.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
