Description:

Script Analysis introduces students to those methods used in the theater for the study and/or analysis of plays. Directors, actors and designers use script analysis during their preparatory work and then continue to use it through the rehearsal process until, and sometimes even after, the production has finished. This course is of value to the student because it focuses on the crucial elements of a play encountered during the production process including dramatic structure, content and meaning. 3 hrs. lecture/wk. This course is typically offered in the fall semester only.

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 how the dramatic script serves as the primary source of information for theatrical performance.
2. Develop a system for analyzing and evaluating different types of scripts from the standpoint of their theatrical requirements and aesthetic qualities.
3. Use basic research techniques in the analysis of a play script in order to identify elements of dramatic structure and characteristics of dramatic genre.
4. Communicate clearly her/his ideas about dramatic literature, the production requirements of particular plays, and shaping the performance experience for the stage.

Content Outline & Competencies:

I. Introduction-The Reason for Script Analysis
   A. Explain why play analysis takes place in the theatrical production
process.
   B. Describe what is involved in conducting a script analysis.

II. The Process of Script Analysis Begins
   A. Describe how the first reading of a play creates the foundation for
subsequent steps in the analysis process.
      1. Identify how one determines what the production wants to
accomplish.
      2. Describe how the first reading of a play is conducted.
   B. Explain the structural nature of different dramatic genres as they
affect theatrical productions.
  
III. The Information-gathering Process and How it is Used in Script
Analysis
   A. Describe how the given circumstances of a play are determined.
      1. Define the roles played in script analysis by the locale, social
setting, and cultural norms created by the playwright.
      2. Utilize information gathering techniques to develop the given
circumstances of a play.
      3. Describe what “backstory” means in script analysis.
   B. Identify the difference between a theatrical contract and a
theatrical convention.
      1. Explain the differences involved in the creation of
presentational and representational productions.
      2. Identify and describe the difference between realistic and
non-realistic methods of staging.

IV. A Valid and Useful Script Analysis of a Selected Play
   A. Determine how characters are delineated in a script.
      1. Use stage directions to find character information.
      2. Evaluate the language, dialogue, and physical actions of the
characters so as to better understand who they are and what they are
trying to accomplish in the play (What they say, what they do, and what
others say about them).
   B. Determine how the conflict in a play is presented.
      1. Describe how character and conflict both affect and interact with
one another.
      2. Explain the basic concepts of conflict analysis as used in a
script analysis.
      3. Create a conflict matrix for a scene in a play using a clear
analytical method.
      4. Identify the impact of conflict on the theme of a play.
   C. Relate those other elements of drama present within a play to the
conflict that the playwright has created.
   D. Decide on how to set the play (where, when, style, mood, etc.), and
discuss the implications of this decision on the design team. 

Methods of Evaluation of Competencies:

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

  Examinations (minimum of two)
  Research project (a completed script analysis of a play chosen in
consultation with the instructor).
  Class attendance and participation in class discussions
  In-class assignments and short scene analyses
  Attendance at a minimum of two productions with reports/analyses of the
same

See the individual instructor's syllabus for specifics of how these
methods of evaluation are weighted and the grading scale to be used.

Caveats:

1. Students are required to attend the theatre department’s productions during the semester they are enrolled in the course. A ticket charge may be required for this. Attendance at other plays being presented in the area is encouraged.

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.