Description:

The student will be introduced to theater improvisation, which will emphasize creative stage activities not requiring a written script. Participation in activities of this course will release and enhance the work of serious acting students and show the students how to approach characterization viscerally rather than intellectually, spontaneously rather than intentionally. 2 hrs. lecture/wk.

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

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

Course Fees: NONE

Course Objectives:

Theatre Improvisation is designed to release and enhance the work of
serious acting students.  Without improvisation techniques, the actor's
work would be mediocre.   Improvisation shows the student how to approach
characterization viscerally rather than intellectually, spontaneously
rather than intentionally, physically rather than mentally.

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

1. Increase concentration skills.
2. Enhance observation skills.
3. Create characters using non-verbal strategies.
4. Demonstrate a heightened awareness of the physical space.
5. Work cooperatively and interdependently in group situations.

Content Outline & Competencies:

I. Increase Concentration Skills
   A. Develop relaxation techniques.
   B. Develop focusing and centering techniques.
      1. Explore energy sharing.
      2. Explore shifting centers of gravity.

II. Enhance Skills in Observation
   A. Develop observation exercises.
      1. Explore mirroring exercises.
      2. Explore sculpting exercises.
   B. Learn how to respond to changes in environment.
      1. Adapt to differing sound stimuli.
      2. Adapt to differing movement patterns.

III. Create Characters Using Non-Verbal Strategies
   A. Explore mask work.
   B. Explore body shaping.
   C. Explore rhythm and motion exercises.

IV. Demonstrate a Heightened Awareness of the Physical Space
   A. Create tension in space.
      1. Apply tension through machines.
      2. Apply tension through geometrics.
      3. Apply tension through the physical space.
   B. Create physical tension between two or more participants.

V. Work Cooperatively and Interdependently in Group Situations
   A. Develop effective scene improvisations.
   B. Develop effective solo improvisations.
   C. Develop extended storytelling techniques.
      1. Create expanded fairy tales.
      2. Construct group stories.
      3. Learn collaborative techniques.

Methods of Evaluation of Competencies:

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

Attendance                                   20% of grade
Class participation and individual progress  30% of grade
Journal                                      30% of grade
Weekly oral assessment                       20% of grade

Caveats: NONE

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.