Theatre (THEA)
1110.
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 General Education Curriculum Area 7: Arts and Design.
1220.
Beginning Acting.
(3)
This course serves as an introduction to the theory and practice of acting. Students will learn various terms, techniques, and practices of acting and will demonstrate their understanding in class. Through exercises and improvisations, partnered scenes, and group work, students will be better able to appreciate the work of others as they learn techniques of performing.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 7: Arts and Design.
1310.
Introduction to Costuming.
(3)
This course introduces students to basic skills generally used in creating costumes for theatre. During the semester students will be introduced to the costume shop, equipment, supplies, and processes. They will learn the process of sewing a garment and running a stage production.
{Fall, Spring}
2210.
Acting for the Camera.
(3)
Acting for the Camera introduces students to techniques specific to performing for the camera. Students acquire acting skills that can be used on both the stage and screen. Students develop techniques through various exercises in front of a camera. Covers audition techniques, readings, shot size, eye-line, and industry vocabulary.
2220.
Intermediate Acting.
(3)
Provides students with the opportunity to deepen physical, vocal, imaginative, and collaborative skills to which they were exposed in Beginning Acting. During the course of the semester, students will be introduced to techniques for working on script and character analysis, moment-to moment work, physical transformation, breath work, and truthful playing of the scene.
Prerequisite: 1220.
2310.
Stagecraft.
(3)
Student will explore basic skills for scenic designers and techniques of set construction for the stage, including building scenery, rigging, painting and properties.
Crew assignments on departmental production required.
{Fall, Spring}
2320.
Lighting for the Theatre.
(3)
This course is a comprehensive introduction to theatre lighting. Students will explore all areas of stage lighting, which include creating a light plot, hanging, circuiting, focusing, patching, and programming a lighting console.
Crew assignment on departmental production required.
{Fall, Spring}
2325.
Lighting Methods and Equipment.
(3)
Theory and practice of lighting for the stage. Crew assignment on departmental production required.
Prerequisite: 2320.
2330.
Introduction to Theatre Makeup.
(3)
Learn basic techniques of theatre makeup. Students will explore applications for various stylizations including period, fantasy, and special effects. This may include practice in productions during the semester.
2335.
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.
2345.
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: 1220.
2350.
Movement for the Stage I.
(3, may be repeated once Δ)
An exploration of the art of acting primarily through the focus on body awareness, dynamic movement techniques, and physical characterization.
300.
Studies in Theatre.
(1-3 to a maximum of 9 Δ)
Lecture and studio study on various topics in Theatre.
314.
Pattern Development.
(3)
An introduction to pattern development using a combination of techniques: flat patterning, slash and spread, and draping.
Prerequisite: 1310.
{Fall, odd-numbered years}
328.
Musical Theatre.
(3, may be repeated once Δ)
Training in the singing and acting styles required for performance in musical theatre.
330.
Acting III.
(3)
Continued exploration of advanced acting technique. Intensive scenework focusing on works of modern dramatists.
Prerequisite: 2220.
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: 2345.
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: 2345.
333.
Topics in Physical Theatre.
(3, may be repeated three times 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, may be repeated three times 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: 2310 and 2335.
391.
Advanced Scenic Techniques.
(3, may be repeated twice 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: 1110 and 2335.
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: 1110 and 1310.
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: 1110 and 2320.
{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: 1310.
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: 1110 and 1220.
404 / 504.
Directing II.
(3, may be repeated once 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, may be repeated twice Δ)
Course material varies, including: training in audition preparation, ensemble performance, repertoire, musical theatre movement and cabaret performance.
Prerequisite: 328.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
431.
Advanced Acting: Tools for Acting the Classical Repertory.
(3, may be repeated once 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, may be repeated twice 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.
437.
Entering the Profession.
(3)
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.
440 / 540.
Devised Performance.
(3, may be repeated twice Δ)
This course explores the modes, methods, and theories of devised and collaborative performance.
445 / 545.
Topics in Performance.
(3, may be repeated twice 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.
Theories of Performance.
(3, may be repeated once 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, may be repeated once 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, may be repeated once Δ)
A playwriting workshop for advanced undergraduate playwrights, focused on a specific theme, style, or dramaturgical question.
457.
Advanced Dramatic Writing Workshop.
(3, may be repeated once 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, may be repeated once 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.
468.
Navajo Expressive Culture.
(3)
(Also offered as 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: 2335.
474.
Production Performance.
(0, may be repeated seven 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, may be repeated once Δ)
Emphasis on designing for various types of stages. Crew assignment on departmental production required.
Prerequisite: 396.
{Spring}
487 / 587.
Contemporary Interdisciplinary Topics.
(3, may be repeated once Δ)
(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}
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.
491.
Professional Apprenticeship.
(1-6, no limit Δ)
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}
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.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
{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.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
{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.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
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.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
512.
Graduate Seminar.
(3, may be repeated twice Δ)
Topical seminars in the areas of Dramatic Writing, Directing and Theatre Education.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
529.
Advanced Topics in Theatre and Dance.
(1-3 to a maximum of 9 Δ)
A course exploring a topic not covered by the standard curriculum but of interest to faculty and students in a particular semester.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
540 / 440.
Devised Performance.
(3, may be repeated twice Δ)
This course explores the modes, methods, and theories of devised and collaborative performance.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
545 / 445.
Topics in Performance.
(3, may be repeated twice Δ)
This interdisciplinary seminar integrates practice and theory to conduct in-depth explorations of themes, issues, and methods in performance. Topics vary by semester.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
551.
Problems.
(1-3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Individual research into an area proposed by the student and conducted under the direction of a faculty member.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
555.
Dramatic Writing I.
(4, may be repeated twice 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.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
556.
Dramatic Writing II.
(4, may be repeated twice 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.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
557.
The Writer's Stage III.
(4, may be repeated twice Δ)
A graduate workshop in dramatic writing, focused on the revision and improvement of existing scripts.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
558 / 458.
Screenwriting.
(3, may be repeated three times 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.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
559.
Topics in Dramatic Writing.
(3, may be repeated three times Δ)
Selected topics in writing for performance.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
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.
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.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
{Offered on demand}
587 / 487.
Contemporary Interdisciplinary Topics.
(3, may be repeated once Δ)
(Also offered as ARTH, DANC, MUS 587 / 487; FDMA *487)
Analyzes major instances of interdisciplinary influence and collaboration in the present day.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
{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)
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.
{Fall, Spring}
598.
Master's Essay in Theatre and Dance.
(3)
A faculty-taught course emphasizing writing, critique and revision within the context of a particular genre or academic discipline.
Offered for students who have been advanced to candidacy and who have elected Plan II.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
599.
Master's Thesis.
(1-6, no limit Δ)
Faculty-supervised investigative study that results in the development and writing of a master’s thesis.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
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.
Restricion: permission of instructor.
