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Theatre 350

THEA 350: Directing I

Prerequisites: THEA 201, THEA 227, THEA 231

Credit Hours: (3)

This course is an overview of the directing process through scene work, lectures and discussion. Study of theoretical, critical and historical writings is a major component.

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

Detailed Description of Course

The student will study the function and techniques of directing for the theatre regarding the following considerations:

    1. The director as supervisor (the relationship to the designers, stage manager and house manager).
    2. The director as creative artist (casting the play, interpreting the play, literary value of the play script).
    3. The director as entrepreneur (the role in play selection, in terms of potential audience, casting and availability of actors, technical problems).
    4. Rehearsal procedures (read-throughs, blocking, line rehearsals, polishing, technical rehearsals, dress rehearsals).
    5. Rehearsal techniques (improvisation, theatre games, creating artificial obstacles).
    6. Staging the action (focus, stage position, body position, emphasis, visual lines, actual lines, composition, balance, total picture).
    7. Handling and training the actor (communication techniques).

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

Familiarization with script analysis, casting methods, exercises in blocking (composition and movement), casting procedures, etc., through discussion followed by practical application of the elements discussed in actual theatrical application with live actors on a real stage.

Goals and Objectives of the Course

At the conclusion of the course, the student will:

    1. Comprehend the art and craft of directing in the theatre.
    2. Be aware of all of the various aspects of directing in terms of the total dramatic picture, including pre-production planning and research, casting, and the scheduling and conducting of blocking, polishing, and full dress rehearsals.
    3. Be able to recognize problem areas, correct mistakes and strengthen the entire dramatic production through his/her awareness of what is wrong as well as what is right.
    4. Be prepared to embark upon further study of the craft of directing.

Assessment Measures

Graded assignments will include performance of in-class exercises, mid-term examination, final examination, pop quizzes, the public performance of a 15 minute scene onstage in Porterfield Theatre, and a complete prompt script including text, play, scene and character analysis, groundplan, and a final summary essay of accomplishments.

Other Course Information

Students enrolled in the class will serve as management or crew members.

Review and Approval

2/2009 Revision Carl Lefko

3/2010 Review Carl Lefko

July 2010

March 01, 2021