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Theatre and Dance
Theatre Arts Minor (20 credits):
The theatre arts minor is ideal for the student who wants to enhance his/her education by obtaining
additional skills which are in high demand with today’s employers: creative thinking skills, problemsolving,
verbal and nonverbal communication skills, and confidence and experience in public speaking.
This minor is also ideal for education majors.
A. The following courses:
TA100 Script Analysis
TA180 Theatre Crafts
B. Six credits of upper-division theatre courses
C. Two of the following:
TA221 History of Theatre I: Origins to the Renaissance
TA321 History of Theatre II: Enlightenment to Romanticism
TA359 The Development of the American musical
TA421 History of Theatre III: Realism to the Present
D. Two credits of theatre production from:
TA111-114 Theatre Production
Theatre Courses
TA100 Script Analysis 3 credits
Through the examination of a variety of plays from different eras and aesthetics, students learn
methodologies from Aristotle to modern performance theory in order to critically and theoretically
analyze a script for potential production. This course includes an introduction to theatre research and
writing methods, and serves as a foundation for other major courses in theatre. Offered fall semester.
TA101 Oral Communication 3 credits
This course prepares students to make effective informative and persuasive presentations incorporating
audio-visual enhancements, and to utilize active listening techniques. The responsibilities of both the
speaker and the listener are stressed. Practical experience in preparation, delivery/participation, and
evaluation are provided.
TA111-114 Theatre Production 1 credit
An experiential course open to all students interested in a guided study of various theatrical arts in the
context of a production atmosphere. Requirements of the course include a weekly three-hour lab, as
well as the opportunity to perform a practical assignment on one production. For the theatre major, two
credits at this level are required, but up to three may be taken. The course cannot be taken at the same
time as Theatre Crafts or during the London semester. Graded pass/no credit.
TA155 Introduction to Acting 3 credits
The basic tasks of the actor are considered in three distinct units: voice and movement; creativity and
imagination; and, character and scene development. The course serves as an introduction to theatrical
performance, and provides a knowledge and appreciation of theatre as a process of fostering creative
expression. Offered spring semester.
TA160 Theatre Appreciation 3 credits
An introductory study of the drama and theatre of the past and present, the course is designed for
the student who has no previous background in theatre. The course is directed toward a greater
appreciation and understanding of the theatre in our culture. (Not open to majors.)
TA180 Theatre Crafts 3 credits
An introductory study and practice of basic techniques commonly used in theatre production. The
course focuses on simultaneous development of crafts found in scenery, lighting, and costumes. A
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