Description:

Students will be introduced to a variety of theatrical experiences, read great plays and see live theater presentations. They also will discuss theater practices, dramatic literature and the history of the theater. Includes 12 required shop hours. 3 hrs./wk.

Supplies: Refer to the instructor's course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Prerequisites: NONE

Textbook(s): For information see - http://bookstore.jccc.net

Course Fees: NONE

Course Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course the student should be able to:

1. Articulate a definition of theater.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the relationships between the audience and theater artists.
3. Describe vocational options in the theater.
4. Trace the historical development of the Western theater.
5. Demonstrate the ability to read and discuss a play intelligently.
6. Respond critically to a theatrical production, expressing both personal preferences and an appreciation for the aesthetic experience.

Content Outline & Competencies:

I. Articulate a Definition of Theater
   A. List essential elements of a theater production.
   B. Compare and contrast theater with other performing arts.

II. Demonstrate an Understanding of the Relationships Between the Audience
and Theater Artists
   A. Examine the individual roles of those involved in creating the
performance event.
      1. Audience
      2. Actors
      3. Playwright
      4. Director
      5. Designers
      6. Technicians
   B. Explore the interactions between theater artists.
   C. Explore the "transaction" that occurs between artists and audience
members during a performance.
   D. Work in the shops or on crews for departmental productions (minimum
of 12 hours).

III. Describe Vocational Options in the Theater
   A. Compare the "business" of the theater with the artistry of the
theater.
   B. Examine the working conditions for theater professionals.

IV. Trace the Major Historical Developments of the Theater
   A. Examine the origins of Western theater.
   B. Determine the significance of the playhouse, performance style and
the play script in 5th century BC Greece.
   C. Compare the theater of ancient Greece to that of Shakespearean
England.
   D. Examine how theater has continued to evolve and diversify in the
late 19th century and through the 20th century.
   E. Contrast Western theater with theater of other cultures.
   F. Predict future trends.

V. Demonstrate the Ability to Read and Discuss a Play Intelligently
   A. Identify ways of categorizing play scripts.
   B. Identify the qualities of a fine play.
   C. Explain the basic structure of a play.
   D. Identify and define the components of a play.
   E. Read and discuss a minimum of three plays.

VI. Respond Critically to a Theatrical Production, Expressing Both
Personal Preferences and an Appreciation for the Aesthetic Experience
   A. Examine the function of the critic.
   B. Attend play productions.
   C. Participate in oral critiques of productions.
   D. Explore critical approaches to writing about plays.
   E. Complete performance reports for productions attended.
   F. Write at least one critical response to a production.

Methods of Evaluation of Competencies:

Evaluation of student mastery of course competencies will be accomplished using the following methods:

• Examinations (minimum of three)
• Research project
• Shop/crew hours (minimum of 12 hours)
• Attendance at a minimum of two productions and reports/reviews of
same

See individual instructor's syllabus for specifics of how these methods of
evaluation are weighted.

Caveats:

1. Students are required to attend theater productions during the semester they are enrolled in the course, for which they may have to purchase tickets.

Disabilities:

If you are a student with a disability, and if you will be requesting accommodations, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services. Access Services will recommend any appropriate accommodations to your professor and his/her director. The professor and director will identify for you which accommodations will be arranged.

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you desire support services, contact the office of Access Services for Students With Disabilities (913) 469-8500, ext. 3521 or TDD (913) 469-3885. The Access Services office is located in the Success Center on the second floor of the Student Center.