Theatre 227

THEA 227: Acting I

Credit Hours: (3) Four hours laboratory

Acting I is a rigorous study of the art of acting through the exploration of the actor’s tools: body, voice, script analysis, the creative impulse, and how these elements can be shaped in relation to the intent of the playwright. Acting I is designed primarily for theatre majors.

Note(s): Humanistic or Artistic Expression designated course.

Detailed Description of Content of Course

• Professional dissertation of the craft of acting and its significance to the art of theatre and the human condition.
• Exploration pursuing objectives, tactics, and obstacles of scripted characters.
• Exploration of techniques involved with healthy vocal production and its role in clear communication.
• Exploration of techniques involved with the physical body and its role in clear communication.
• Written and oral responses to class experiences, self-reflection, play readings, live performances, texts, and current periodicals.
• Development of the collaborative ensemble and its importance to the individual’s artistic process.
• Exploration of proper audition technique and rehearsal etiquette.
• Addition of the audience and its role to a performance.

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

The course utilizes a workshop/laboratory approach. This format includes physical participation of students with the intent of self-discovery and instructor/peer observation and evaluation.

Goals and Objectives of the Course

• Appreciation of the craft of acting and how it relates to the art of the theatre and to the human condition.
• Competency in identifying objectives, tactics and obstacles of a scripted character.
• Vocal and physical freedom which includes identifying and releasing tension, and learned habits.
• Written and oral eloquence when responding to personal growth, play readings, live performances, texts, and current periodicals.
• Clear sense of an ensemble and its importance to the individual‘s artistic process.
• Proven implementation of proper audition technique and rehearsal etiquette.
• Successful performance of scenes and monologues in the presence of a live audience.

Assessment Measures

Students are graded weekly on written work and given continuous feedback on their in-class exercises and out-of-class rehearsed presentations. Preparation and participation are also regularly assessed.

Other Course Information

Students are required to see all university theatre productions during the term they are enrolled in the class.

Review and Approval

Revised April, 2009

March 01, 2021