Undergraduate Program

This course introduces the student to the diverse elements that make up the world of dance, including a broad historic overview, roles of the dancer, choreographer and audience, and the evolution of the major genres. Students will learn the fundamentals of dance technique, dance history, and a variety of dance aesthetics. Course fee required.

Meets New Mexico Lower-Division General Education Common Core Curriculum Area V: Humanities and Fine Arts.

{Fall, Spring}

African Dance I introduces the student to the aesthetics of African dance technique and develops knowledge and appreciation of its fundamental movements, music, and culture. Students will gain perspectives of African culture through discussion of how music, rhythm, and dance are used in African societies.

Course fee required.

This course is the beginning level of ballet technique. Students learn the basic fundamentals and performance skills of ballet technique, which may include flexibility, strength, body alignment, coordination, range of motion, vocabulary, and musicality.

Course fee required.

{Fall, Spring}

This course introduces the student to the art of flamenco and its cultural features and significance. Students will learn the fundamentals of this art form and introductory techniques and skills, which may include handwork, footwork, postures, and specific dances. Course fee required.

{Fall, Spring}

Fundamental work for the adult beginner in Modern Dance techniques and styles. Course fee required.

{Fall, Spring}

Fundamental work for the adult beginner in technique and styles of jazz dance. Course fee required.

{Fall}

An introduction to Hip Hop, its movement, style and culture. Course fee required.

{Fall, Spring}

Participation in University theatre and dance season through assignment on a production crew. To be completed in one semester.

Offered on a CR/NC basis only.

{Summer, Fall, Spring}

Specialized floor work training using principles of the Pilates Methodology and the basic movement concepts of Core Dynamics™. For preparing and maintaining a uniformly developed body for dance and movement. Course fee required.

{Fall, Spring, Summer}

Modern dance techniques and styles at the intermediate level. Course fee required.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Fall, Spring}

Introduction to improvisational skills in movement and the principles of choreography as applied to dance/theater composition. Investigation of structured improvisation within the fundamental elements of dance: energy, space, and time.

{Fall}

Jazz techniques and styles at the intermediate level. Course fee required.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Fall, Spring}

Overview of fundamental elements of music and historically significant collaborations between choreographers and composers in contemporary dance.

Overview of Flamenco music and history fundamentals, introduction to basic music notation. Primary focus on developing listening skills through a variety of Flamenco song forms. Basic rhythmic notation specifically applied to palmas and footwork patterns.

Intermediate level Ballet. Introduction of more advanced Ballet vocabulary at barre/center work; increase flexibility, strength, body alignment, and coordination for practice of steps/combinations with variations in timing and changes of facing. Course fee required.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Spring}

Flamenco techniques and styles at the intermediate level. Course fee required.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Summer, Fall, Spring}

Various topics such as: Cante, Cuadro/Improvisation/ Structure, Spanish Form/Castanets, Palmas and Cajon, Brazeo/Marcaje, Footwork and Vueltas and Bata de Cola/Manton/Abanico. Course fee required.

Lecture courses and workshops on various topics in dance. Course fee required.

{Summer, Fall, Spring}

Modern dance techniques and styles at the advanced level. Course fee required.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Fall, Spring}

Creating and exploring movement vocabulary and forms generating choreography; development of ideas and inspirations into short works; space and its importance; giving and receiving critical feedback; exposure to choreography supported by video and reading. 

Prerequisite: 212.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Spring}

Structural analysis of movement. This lecture class provides a basic understanding of the skeletal and neuromuscular systems of the human body in movement. Course fee required.

{Fall}

Advanced level Ballet. Improvement of physical and mental skills necessary for professional level Ballet technique, growth in physical stamina, coordination and phrasing, movement efficiency, faster and more accurate assimilation of new movement and spatial awareness. Course fee required.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Fall, Spring}

Advanced technique in Flamenco with resident and visiting professors, offering a wide variety of exercises to hone abilities to learn choreography effectively while examining student strengths and weaknesses in personal exploration of the art form. Course fee required. 

Prerequisite: 379.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Fall, Spring}

Intermediate to advanced study of Hip Hop, its movement, style and culture. Course fee required.

Prerequisite: 170 or permission of instructor.

Study of various elements necessary in an improvisational setting in Flamenco. Using “tangos” and “Bulerias” as a format, students study the compass of each palo, then move to several traditional letras appropriate to these forms.

{Spring}

Further exploration in generating and organizing movement material for performance. Course fee required.

Prerequisite: 311.

{Fall}

Theories of teaching. Principles and techniques of curriculum development in elementary schools, secondary schools, higher education and in private schools. Course fee required.

{Spring, odd numbered years}

Observation and written analysis of dance events with an emphasis on contemporary theories and performances. Course fee required.

{Spring, even numbered years}

A survey of the origins of modern ballet and modern dance from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. Extensive readings culminating in a research paper will be required. Course fee required.

Study of contemporary choreography from Modernism to the present. Particular emphasis on feminism and post-modernism as these movements have influenced our understanding of dancing and dance-making.

Introduction to Flamenco history, investigation of the controversial history of the art form through study of Gypsy history, Spanish history, and major figures and events that shaped the evolution of Flamenco.

{Spring, odd numbered years}

Designed for advanced students with knowledge of Flamenco structure and improvisation, cante, palmas, and three levels of Flamenco technique, investigation of choreography in Flamenco movement and rhythms.

Prerequisite: 379.

{Fall}

(Also offered as ARTH, MUS, THEA 487 / 587; FDMA *487)

Analyzes major instances of interdisciplinary influence and collaboration in the present day. Course fee required.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Spring}

Course fee required.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Offered upon demand}

Independent project culminating in a formal, informal or video performance. Students must submit a proposal to instructor and program head.

{Summer, Fall, Spring}

Independent project culminating in a formal paper. Students must submit a proposal to instructor and program head.

{Summer, Fall, Spring}

Students achieving an overall grade point of 3.50 will qualify for departmental honors, which requires a research or creative project with supporting written document.

Restriction: permission of department.

Research methods for performing arts including development of working bibliography, types of documentation, investigation of research materials in theatre and dance. Course fee required.

Required of all entering graduate students.

{Fall}

(Also offered as THEA 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}

(Also offered as THEA 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.

Individualized work with Department faculty or professional artists in Dance or Theatre. Internship to be conceived in advance and structured throughout by directed study. Culminates in critical paper.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Summer, Fall, Spring}

An in depth study of the nature of creative investigation and art-making in dance with the prospect of finding alternative ways of constructing dance movement and composing new works. Course fee required.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Fall}

Further exploration in generating and organizing movement material for performance. A major piece of 20–30 minutes in duration or several smaller works of equivalent total length will be required. Course fee required.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Fall}

Further in-depth study of the nature of creative investigation and art-making specifically as it pertains to dance composition. Works-in-progress begun during the previous semester will be brought to completion. Course fee required.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Fall}

Theories and teaching. Principles and techniques of curriculum development in the elementary and secondary schools, higher education and in private studios. Course fee required.

{Spring, odd numbered years}

Observation and written analysis of dance events with an emphasis on contemporary theories and performances. Course fee required.

{Spring, even numbered years}

Regularly-scheduled technique course. Students must enroll in the appropriate section by dance genre and level. Course fee required.

{Fall, Spring}

A study of the history of dance from tribal culture to 19th-century Romantic ballet. Extensive readings culminating in a research paper will be required. Course fee required.

A survey of the origins of modern ballet and modern dance from the late 19th century to the beginning of Modernism. Extensive readings culminating in a formal research paper. Course fee required.

Study of contemporary choreography from Modernism to the present. Particular emphasis on feminism and post-modernism as these movements have influenced our understanding of dancing and dance-making. Course fee required.

Introduction to Flamenco history, investigation of the controversial history of the art form through study of Gypsy history, Spanish history and major figures and events that shaped the evolution of Flamenco. Course fee required.

Designed for advanced students with knowledge of Flamenco structure and improvisation, cante, palmas, and three levels of Flamenco technique, investigation of choreography in Flamenco movement and rhythms.

Prerequisite: 379.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Fall}

(Also offered as ARTH, MUS, THEA 587 / 487; FDMA *487)

Analyzes major instances of interdisciplinary influence and collaboration in the present day. Course fee required.

Independent project culminating in a formal, informal or video performance.

{Summer, Fall, Spring}

Independent project culminating in a final paper. Students must submit a proposal to instructor and Dance Program Head.

{Summer, Fall, Spring}

Offered for students who have been advanced to candidacy and who have elected Plan II.

{Summer, Fall, Spring}

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.

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.

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}

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. 

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.

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: 1220.

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: 1220.

Basic techniques, tools and materials for construction of stage scenery. Crew assignments on departmental production required.

{Fall, Spring}

An exploration of the art of acting primarily through the focus on body awareness, dynamic movement techniques, and physical characterization.

Basic techniques of stage lighting. Crew assignment on departmental production required.

{Fall, Spring}

Basic techniques of make up design for stage, film and television through the use of a variety of materials.

Advanced techniques of stage crafts. Crew assignment on departmental production required.

Prerequisite: 2310.

{Spring}

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.

Theory and practice of lighting for the stage. Crew assignment on departmental production required.

Prerequisite: 2320.

Lecture and studio study on various topics in Theatre.

An introduction to pattern development using a combination of techniques: flat patterning, slash and spread, and draping.

Prerequisite: 1310.

{Fall, odd-numbered years}

Training in the singing and acting styles required for performance in musical theatre.

Continued exploration of advanced acting technique. Intensive scenework focusing on works of modern dramatists. 

Prerequisite: 2220. 

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.

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.

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.

Historical and regional study and analysis of the cultural and sociological importance of what people wear and how they decorate and distort their bodies.

The nature of the staged dramatic work: analysis of plays with representative readings from the history of dramatic literature.

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.

The role, functions and duties of the stage manager in production, rehearsal and performance.

Corequisite: 367.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Principles and practice of scenic painting techniques, including: color mixing, textures, faux finishes, and large scale backdrop painting.

Prerequisite: 2310 and 292.

Principles and practice of advanced scenic techniques including rigging, structural analysis, OSHA safety, scene painting and technical direction.

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: 1110 and 292.

Exploration of costume design for stage, film and television concentrating on design theory, visual communication, rendering techniques and portfolio presentation. Drawing skills required.

Prerequisite: 1110 and 1310.

Basics of lighting design, emphasis on play analysis, light plots and plugging charts. Crew assignment on departmental production required.

Prerequisite: 1110 and 2320.

{Fall}

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.

Principles and practice of advanced costuming techniques like millinery, mask making, corsetry, wigs, jewelry and fabric dyeing.

Prerequisite: 1310.

Intensive study and practice of special techniques and materials in theatre and production.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Offered upon demand}

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: 1110 and 1220.

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.

Course material varies, including: training in audition preparation, ensemble performance, repertoire, musical theatre movement and cabaret performance.

Prerequisite: 328.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

In this course, students acquire the dramaturgical, linguistic, and physical skills needed to bring the classical repertory to life on the stage. 

Prerequisite: 330.

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.

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.

Preparation for a career in theatre and performance. Students learn about graduate schools, the state of the field; acquire practical knowledge of auditions, interviews, CVs, cover letters, professional etiquette, networking; and develop a career plan. 

This course explores the modes, methods, and theories of devised and collaborative performance.

This interdisciplinary seminar integrates practice and theory to conduct in-depth explorations of themes, issues, and methods in performance. Topics vary by semester. 

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. 

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.

A playwriting workshop for advanced undergraduate playwrights, focused on a specific theme, style, or dramaturgical question.

An advanced playwriting workshop focused on the composition and revision of evening-length performances and plays, with an emphasis on public presentation. 

{Fall}

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.

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.

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.

(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.

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.

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.

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.

Intensive study and practice in computers and technology for design and performance. Topics vary.

{Offered on demand}

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.

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.

Emphasis on designing for various types of stages. Crew assignment on departmental production required.

Prerequisite: 396.

{Spring}

(Also offered as ARTH, DANC, MUS 487 / 587; FDMA *487)

Analyzes major instances of interdisciplinary influence and collaboration in the present day.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Spring}

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.

Qualified students accepted by a professional company (e.g., The Santa Fe Opera, New Mexico Repertory Theatre, Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey Circus) may register for technical production or acting credit.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Summer, Fall, Spring} 

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.

Advanced work in costume design, concentrating on student projects for dance, stage, film and television. Portfolio presentation required.

Prerequisite: 394.

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.

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.

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}

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.

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}

(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}

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}

(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.

Topical seminars in the areas of Dramatic Writing, Directing and Theatre Education.

This course explores the modes, methods, and theories of devised and collaborative performance.

This interdisciplinary seminar integrates practice and theory to conduct in-depth explorations of themes, issues, and methods in performance. Topics vary by semester. 

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. 

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. 

A graduate workshop in dramatic writing, focused on the revision and improvement of existing scripts. 

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.

Selected topics in writing for performance. 

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.

(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.

Intensive study and practice in computers and technology for design and performance. Topics vary.

{Offered on demand}

(Also offered as ARTH, DANC, MUS 587 / 487; FDMA *487)

Analyzes major instances of interdisciplinary influence and collaboration in the present day.

{Spring}

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.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

{Fall, Spring}

Offered for students who have been advanced to candidacy and who have elected Plan II.

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.