Theatre and Drama (THEATRE) < University of Wisconsin-Madison

THEATRE 100 — EXPERIENCING THEATRE

2-3 credits.

By attending live theatre performances, watching films of theatrical productions and participating in colloquiums with theatre professionals, explore how theatre is made through the lens of various theatre artists. Through this exploration, develop an understanding and a deeper appreciation of performative events as well as critically think about those experiences. Explores performance and the human condition, using acquired knowledge to build empathy and appreciation for the complexities of one's own and other people's perspectives.

Requisites: None

Course Designation: Breadth - Humanities
Level - Elementary
L&S Credit - Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S

Repeatable for Credit: No

Last Taught: Fall 2024

Learning Outcomes: 1. Demonstrate knowledge of theatrical terminology
Audience: Undergraduate

2. Demonstrate an understanding of how theatre artists collaborate
Audience: Undergraduate

3. Employ various approaches to critically evaluate the art and craft of theatre
Audience: Undergraduate

4. Identify the responsibilities of various artists/individuals involved in theatre
Audience: Undergraduate

5. Use learned knowledge to build empathy and appreciation for the complexities of one’s own and other people’s perspectives
Audience: Undergraduate

THEATRE/ENGL 120 — INTRODUCTION TO THEATRE AND DRAMATIC LITERATURE

3-4 credits.

Reading important plays, attending stage productions, writing and thinking critically about theatre and drama. Emphasis on developing analytic skills in dramatic literature and theatre production.

THEATRE 130 — FUNDAMENTALS OF THEATRICAL DESIGN

3 credits.

Foundational elements of theatrical design and developing the skills to translate text into visual and/or aural content. Involves an introduction to script analysis; visual, aural, and dramaturgical research; problem solving skills; creative exploration and visual communication. Relevant to designers, directors, actors, stage managers, technicians, and informed audience members.

THEATRE 140 — VOICE 1: EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

3 credits.

Introduces and explores the fundamentals and discipline of voice and speech. Provides a foundation from which the student will begin to access and engage healthful, practical, and creative vocal and speech function. Introduction to methods of expression for acting and public speaking.

THEATRE 150 — ACTING I: INTRODUCTION TO ACTING

3 credits.

Provides a basic introduction to the craft of acting. Develops disciplines and tools of the actor as they relate to voice, movement, language skills, and engaging communication. Explores how actor training skills can be a benefit in a wide context of professional and personal endeavors.

THEATRE 160 — TECHNICAL THEATRE FUNDAMENTALS

3 credits.

Learn how to mount a theatrical production. Through scenery, costumes, lighting, sound, and stage management explore the relationship between the technical components of the production process. Includes lectures as well as practical experience in University Theatre productions.

THEATRE 161 — BACKSTAGE LABORATORY I

2 credits.

Learn through practical participation in University Theatre productions; lab choices include scenery and costume construction, lighting, and sound.

THEATRE 199 — DIRECTED STUDY

1-3 credits.

Collaborate with instructor for personalized curriculum.

THEATRE 200 — ACTING SKILLS FOR LIFE

2-3 credits.

Learn how to apply acting skills to presentations and interactions in non-arts settings (business, education, etc.), such as enhancing confidence and communication in interviews presentations, elevator pitches, authentically connecting on a personal level with others, and how to avoid or better deal with stage fright.

Requisites: None

Course Designation: Level - Elementary
L&S Credit - Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S

Repeatable for Credit: No

Last Taught: Fall 2024

Learning Outcomes: 1. Gain a deeper understanding and awareness of their physical/vocal presence.
Audience: Undergraduate

2. Effectively communicate their work to different audiences.
Audience: Undergraduate

3. Adjust their behavior in real time to respond to audience feedback.
Audience: Undergraduate

4. Manipulate their vocal and physical presence to communicate more effectively.
Audience: Undergraduate

5. Gain confidence in public speaking and leadership presence.
Audience: Undergraduate

6. Develop greater self-awareness and how acting techniques can benefit all areas of connection with others.
Audience: Undergraduate

THEATRE 213 — DIGITAL DESIGN VISUALIZATION FOR ENTERTAINMENT

3 credits.

Offers the fundamental principles and the practical knowledge of design visualization for theatrical productions and entertainment events. Focuses on building students' capability of producing clear and effective visual presentations of their creative design concepts by using the most cutting edge 2D and 3D digital applications.

Requisites: None

Course Designation: Level - Elementary
L&S Credit - Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S

Repeatable for Credit: No

Last Taught: Spring 2021

Learning Outcomes: 1. Transform 2D sketches, technical drawings into 3D shapes with multiple choices including digital modeling tools, sculpting tools and 2.5D postproduction tools including transfer files among the applications.
Audience: Undergraduate

2. Apply the basic surface textures to the 3D objects with graphic and dimensional qualities.
Audience: Undergraduate

3. Enrich the digitally designed environment with lights and atmosphere such as basic illumination, theatrical lighting effects, environmental fog and particles.
Audience: Undergraduate

4. Demonstrate the basic digital rendering technique and the use of different render engines, virtual camera, camera animation, render output selection and settings.
Audience: Undergraduate

5. Demonstrate the basic special effects and simulations such as fractures, cloth, water surface with collision, physics and basic particles.
Audience: Undergraduate

6. Discuss the basic concept and demonstrate the use of the digital game engine for design visualization.
Audience: Undergraduate

7. Search, compare and select the most suitable and efficient applications as the project centric tool and technology setting.
Audience: Undergraduate

THEATRE/DANCE 218 — AFRICAN DANCE PERFORMANCE

2 credits.

Technique, practice and performance of complex African and African-based dances in relation to polyrhythmic musical and percussive accompaniment. Study of historical and cultural contexts of these forms. Development of improvisational skills in dialogue with musicians.

THEATRE 219 — UNDERGRADUATE TOPICS INTHEATRE AND DRAMA

1-3 credits.

Undergraduate study in subjects of current interest in design, performance, technology, history, dramatic theory, literature criticism, or theatre/drama education.

THEATRE 220 — SCENIC STUDIO PRACTICUM

1 credit.

Hone skills learned in Technical Theater Fundamentals while working side-by-side with designers and technicians building University Theatre productions.

Requisites: None

Repeatable for Credit: No

Last Taught: Fall 2024

Learning Outcomes: 1. Identify and use equipment found in the Scenic Studio safely and effectively.
Audience: Undergraduate

2. Demonstrate Professionalism through prompt attendance, engagement and effective teamwork.
Audience: Undergraduate

3. Improve on skills and techniques of theatrical set construction and the usage of tools, hardware and materials as learned in TD 160.
Audience: Undergraduate

4. Execute verbal instructions with preciseness and skill.
Audience: Undergraduate

5. Develop new skills such as the interpretation of drawn images and their translation into three-dimensional objects through scenic construction.
Audience: Undergraduate

THEATRE 221 — COSTUME STUDIO PRACTICUM

1 credit.

Hone skills learned in Technical Theater Fundamentals while working side-by-side with designers and technicians building University Theatre productions.

Requisites: THEATRE 160

Repeatable for Credit: No

Last Taught: Fall 2024

Learning Outcomes: 1. Identify and use equipment found in the Costume Studio safely and effectively.
Audience: Undergraduate

2. Demonstrate Professionalism through prompt attendance, engagement and effective teamwork.
Audience: Undergraduate

3. Improve on skills and techniques in creating costumes and accessories for theatrical productions as learned in TD 160.
Audience: Undergraduate

4. Execute verbal instructions with preciseness and skill.
Audience: Undergraduate

5. Develop new skills such as the interpretation of drawn images and their translation into three-dimensional objects through costume construction and fabric manipulation.
Audience: Undergraduate

THEATRE 222 — LIGHTING & SOUND STUDIO PRACTICUM

1 credit.

Hone skills learned in Technical Theater Fundamentals while working side-by-side with designers and technicians building University Theatre productions.

Requisites: THEATRE 160

Repeatable for Credit: No

Last Taught: Spring 2024

Learning Outcomes: 1. Identify and use equipment found in the Lighting and Sound Studio safely and effectively.
Audience: Undergraduate

2. Develop new skills such as the interpretation of drafted plots and paperwork and translate them into realized designs.
Audience: Undergraduate

3. Improve on skills and techniques in light hanging and focusing, rigging and speaker installation for theatrical productions.
Audience: Undergraduate

4. Execute verbal instructions with preciseness and skill.
Audience: Undergraduate

5. Demonstrate Professionalism through prompt attendance, engagement and effective teamwork.
Audience: Undergraduate

THEATRE 230 — ENVIRONMENT DESIGN FOR GAMES AND OTHER VIRTUAL STORYTELLING SPACES

3 credits.

Video game environments by their nature are designed to support storytelling. Develop the skills needed to create rich virtual worlds using theatrical storytelling techniques and three-dimensional modeling.

Requisites: THEATRE 130

Repeatable for Credit: No

Last Taught: Spring 2022

Learning Outcomes: 1. Relate game design concepts to theatrical performance and design practices.
Audience: Undergraduate

2. Analyze the relationship between theatre and games using specific examples of "gamified" theatre.
Audience: Undergraduate

3. Demonstrate the basics of 3D modeling using tools and techniques to create assets.
Audience: Undergraduate

4. Apply assets and tools to solve visual storytelling problems.
Audience: Undergraduate

5. Compose a 3D scene that supports narrative.
Audience: Undergraduate

6. Develop a storytelling project from scratch to finish through all stages of an ordered workflow.
Audience: Undergraduate

THEATRE 234 — COLLABORATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING

3 credits.

Theatre is the manifestation of collaborative problem solving. Collaboration is a process involving two or more individuals working toward a common goal, through interdependent behavior with individual accountability. Build collaborative and creative problem-solving skills to generate innovative solutions to complex problems and practices.

Requisites: THEATRE 100, or concurrent enrollment in THEATRE 100

Repeatable for Credit: No

Last Taught: Fall 2024

Learning Outcomes: 1. Identify and demonstrate competency in the common elements in collaborative frameworks.
Audience: Undergraduate

2. Collaborate effectively in various theatrical organizational roles and structures.
Audience: Undergraduate

3. Employ various methods in problem-solving and idea-generation in pursuit of a common team goal.
Audience: Undergraduate

THEATRE 240 — INTERMEDIATE VOICE TRAINING

3 credits.

Techniques and practice for increasing vocal strength, range, flexibility and the study of diction. Attention to individual problems in tone production, resonance, and articulation.

THEATRE 250 — FUNDAMENTALS OF ACTING

3 credits.

Focuses on developing fundamental acting techniques (voice, characterization, physicality) and learn to apply skills in individual performance and scene study of contemporary dramatic texts.

THEATRE/DANCE 259 — COLLABORATIVE ARTS PERFORMANCE LAB: DEVISING COLLABORATIVE PERFORMANCE THROUGH HIP HOP ARTS

1-2 credits.

Work together to create a repertory company which produces performances of short hip hop theater and other collaborative performance art works for public viewing. Experimental works are researched and developed. Involves the development of collaborative and small group pieces as well as artistic training with a focus on individual and multi-voice work, theater improvisation, dance/movement.

THEATRE 260 — PRODUCING THEATRE

3 credits.

Focuses on the fundamental principles and practical operational knowledge of different theatrical business models. Topics include: planning, scheduling, marketing, fundraising, budgeting, hiring, commercial vs. not-for-profit, legal concerns, and public relations.

THEATRE 262 — BACKSTAGE PRACTICUM

1 credit.

Participation as a backstage run crew member for one University Theatre production. Crew positions vary per production and may include wardrobe, deck, light board operator, sound board operator, backstage microphone technician, and follow spot operator. In-person attendance for all production calls is mandatory.

Requisites: Consent of instructor

Repeatable for Credit: Yes, unlimited number of completions

Last Taught: Fall 2024

Learning Outcomes: 1. Explain the production process through hands-on experience.
Audience: Undergraduate

2. Demonstrate the ability to problem-solve collaboratively.
Audience: Undergraduate

3. Explain basic theatrical terminology and the responsibilities of various roles involved in producing theatre.
Audience: Undergraduate

4. Execute verbal instructions with precision and skill.
Audience: Undergraduate

THEATRE 266 — FUNDAMENTALS OF STAGE LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY

3 credits.

Theories and techniques for the use of stage lighting equipment, special effects, and other stage electrics devices.

THEATRE 270 — FUNDAMENTALS OF STAGECRAFT

3-4 credits.

Theory and techniques of stagecraft for theatrical production. When taken for 4 credits, a lab component required.

THEATRE 298 — DIRECTED STUDY

1-3 credits.

Collaborate with instructor for personalized curriculum.

THEATRE 299 — DIRECTED STUDY

1-3 credits.

Collaborate with instructor for personalized curriculum.

THEATRE/DANCE/FOLKLORE 321 — JAVANESE PERFORMANCE

2 credits.

Technique and practice of classical Javanese dance in its musical, historical and cultural contexts.

THEATRE 324 — TRADITIONS IN DRAMATIC LITERATURE

3 credits.

Multiple approaches to reading plays from a variety of important periods in dramatic literature with an emphasis on the life of older plays in the contemporary repertory. When possible, some course materials are linked to University Theatre production.

THEATRE 327 — HISTORY OF COSTUME FOR THE STAGE

3 credits.

Examines dress in Western civilization through the cultural context of history, art and fashion and related to theatrical costume design through a comparison of theatre designs to their primary visual sources.

THEATRE 328 — MATERIAL CULTURE FOR PERFORMANCE DESIGN

3 credits.

Introduction to art, architecture, interior design, objects, and clothing history, including social and economic factors that influenced development. Through research and critical thinking, demonstrate knowledge of historical and contemporary art movements, architecture, and clothing for application in performance design.

Requisites: THEATRE 130, ART 100, or DS 120

Course Designation: Breadth - Humanities
Level - Intermediate
L&S Credit - Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S

Repeatable for Credit: No

Learning Outcomes: 1. Synthesize research and knowledge learned about global material cultures for its significance, potential application, and understanding of its relationship to the time/culture in which it was created.
Audience: Undergraduate

2. Facilitate and contribute to a discussion around a material culture different from their own or new to them.
Audience: Undergraduate

3. Review evidence and hypothesize how an object’s impact might be changed by re-contextualizing for use in performance design.
Audience: Undergraduate

4. Synthesize research and knowledge learned about global material cultures and apply that within a design process to devise a culturally competent historical world for use in performance design.
Audience: Undergraduate

THEATRE 329 — INTRODUCTION TO AFRICAN-AMERICAN PERFORMANCE

3-4 credits.

Introduction to historical, social and political contexts of African-American artistic expression in theatre and performance. Offers critical analyses of theatre, films, and/or dance forms that reflect cultural values, ideologies and performance aesthetics rooted in African-American and West African traditions.

THEATRE/LITTRANS 335 — IN TRANSLATION: THE DRAMA OF HENRIK IBSEN

3-4 credits.

Often considered "the father of modern drama," the Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen (1828-1906) is a major figure of world literature whose dramatic works remain fascinating and globally influential, both as texts and through performance and adaptation. Read and discuss Ibsen in English translation, with a focus on Ibsen's historical contexts, dramatic techniques, social and political thought, and the reception and adaptation of his work in modern culture.

THEATRE/LITTRANS 336 — IN TRANSLATION: THE DRAMA OF AUGUST STRINDBERG

3-4 credits.

Provides in-depth knowledge of the artistic career of the influential Swedish playwright, August Strindberg (1849-1912), and a general knowledge of the literary, artistic, and intellectual history that shaped his artistic production.

THEATRE 342 — FUNDAMENTALS OF MOVEMENT FOR THE STAGE

1-3 credits.

Development of the actor's awareness of habitual patterns of tension. Elements of movement including space, time, energy. Introduction to improvisation skills.

THEATRE 350 — ACTING REALISM

3 credits.

Intensive scene study from the major works of selected modern playwrights, concentrating on realism.

THEATRE 351 — FUNDAMENTALS OF ASIAN STAGE DISCIPLINE

3 credits.

Intensive movement discipline using Asian martial art techniques and mask work as a preparation for performance.

THEATRE 352 — AUDITIONING FOR STAGE AND SCREEN

3 credits.

Student actors develop career-focused skills and confidence in auditioning for theatre and on-camera projects. Includes exercises in handling "cold" readings, prepared monologues, interviews, and improvisational auditioning. Student will also learn to look at auditions from the casting director's point of view.

Requisites: THEATRE 150 and 250

Repeatable for Credit: No

Last Taught: Fall 2021

Learning Outcomes: 1. Demonstrate skills to effectually audition for professional and academic theatre
Audience: Undergraduate

2. Demonstrate skills to effectually audition for commercials, film and television work
Audience: Undergraduate

3. Self-tape auditions for digital submissions
Audience: Undergraduate

4. Perform a personalized repertoire of audition material
Audience: Undergraduate

THEATRE 357 — INTRODUCTION TO THEATRE FOR CULTURAL AND SOCIAL AWARENESS

3 credits.

Analysis of sensitive subject matter in U.S. workplace and school/community settings through theatre and drama. Examines race relations, cultural diversity, gender, sexual orientation and other topics in plays, films, and current events. Develops theatrical models to encourage healthy dialogue.

THEATRE 360 — PERFORMANCE IN PRACTICE

1-3 credits.

Students gain practical theatrical experience, skills, and knowledge by working on a University Theatre production. The assignments will involve responsibilities as Actor, Director, Assistant Director, Stage Manager, Assistant Stage Manager, or other approved performance related positions on a University Theatre production.

Requisites: Consent of instructor

Course Designation: Workplace - Workplace Experience Course

Repeatable for Credit: Yes, for 5 number of completions

Last Taught: Fall 2024

Learning Outcomes: 1. Exhibit the capability of taking a production from page to stage
Audience: Undergraduate

2. Demonstrate professional deportment
Audience: Undergraduate

3. Display a practical understanding of collaboration on a theatrical production
Audience: Undergraduate

4. Recognize the role and responsibilities expected of each collaborator within the production
Audience: Undergraduate

THEATRE 361 — BACKSTAGE LABORATORY II

1-2 credits.

Emphasis on student's involvement with a specific responsibility within theatrical production.

THEATRE/CURRIC/SLAVIC 362 — DRAMA FOR TEACHING AND LEARNING

3 credits.

Methods for all involved in teaching and learning, including foreign languages. Introduction to philosophy, methodology, and practice of the use of drama and performance techniques in any educational or recreational settings. Focus on creativity and embodied and contextual learning, based on current neurological, psychological, and sociological research. A practical class which includes demonstration and practice with children.

Requisites: None

Course Designation: Breadth - Humanities
Level - Elementary
L&S Credit - Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Grad 50% - Counts toward 50% graduate coursework requirement

Repeatable for Credit: No

Last Taught: Spring 2022

Learning Outcomes: 1. Articulate the importance of drama in the education of all children.
Audience: Both Grad & Undergrad

2. Connect drama to multiple forms of expressing and receiving experiences, ideas, and feelings.
Audience: Both Grad & Undergrad

3. Apply the basic terms, skills, philosophies, and methodologies for leading drama sessions
Audience: Both Grad & Undergrad

4. Articulate the difference and similarities between the drama methodologies offered in the course.
Audience: Both Grad & Undergrad

5. Connect the use of drama with current brain based research
Audience: Both Grad & Undergrad

6. Demonstrate ability to design, implement, and evaluate activities and lesson plans with sound objectives and goals.
Audience: Both Grad & Undergrad

7. Connect school and community-making connections between community-based knowledge and school knowledge in theory and practice of drama.
Audience: Both Grad & Undergrad

8. Demonstrate ability to design, implement, and evaluate lesson plans that focus on inclusion and diversity in theory, practice, and pedagogy.
Audience: Graduate

9. Articulate the value of drama in relation to children's social, cultural, cognitive, linguistic, emotional, and moral development.
Audience: Graduate

THEATRE 363 — COSTUME DESIGN I

3 credits.

An introduction to costume design theory and techniques for performance. Emphasis on script analysis for costume design and visual communication skills. Projects will explore design by using analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret a text, supporting a text through design choices, and achieving mastery of drawing and costume rendering techniques using analog techniques and/or digital media.

Requisites: THEATRE 130, ART 100, or DS 120

Course Designation: Breadth - Humanities
Level - Intermediate
L&S Credit - Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S

Repeatable for Credit: No

Last Taught: Fall 2024

Learning Outcomes: 1. Analyze a text to create costume designs and defend those choices.
Audience: Undergraduate

2. Synthesize research to tell a visual story.
Audience: Undergraduate

3. Engage in culturally competent creative practices.
Audience: Undergraduate

4. Communicate costume designs through effective costume renderings and supporting research.
Audience: Undergraduate

5. Demonstrate a level of skill and proficiency in costume rendering in analog or digital methods.
Audience: Undergraduate

THEATRE 364 — MAKEUP FOR THE THEATRE

3 credits.

An introduction to makeup design for the theater. Learn the aesthetics of makeup, color theory, and the technical aspects of applying makeup. Topics include the importance of developing a character through makeup, techniques of physically applying makeup to the actor and special effects makeup such as old age and prosthetic makeup appliances.

THEATRE 365 — SEWING FOR THE THEATRE

3 credits.

Intermediate sewing techniques used to create theatrical garments.

THEATRE/ART 366 — STAGE LIGHTING I

3-4 credits.

Application of lighting design to the stage and natural environment. Color principles, lighting instruments, and control equipment. Production participation and labs.

THEATRE 367 — SCRIPT ANALYSIS

3 credits.

A study of dramatic structure and examination of the basic elements of theatrical text. Introduction to applied methods of script analysis as an approach to researching, writing, directing, designing, performing and critiquing plays and screenplays.

THEATRE 368 — FUNDAMENTALS OF DIRECTING

3 credits.

Principles and practice of play direction; motivational analysis, composition, movement, stage business and rehearsal techniques. Student directs a final project.

THEATRE 370 — DRAFTING FOR THE THEATRE

3-4 credits.

Methods and development of techniques used in theatrical drafting.

THEATRE 371 — SOUND FOR THEATRE

3-4 credits.

Audio equipment and its use in the theatre; the integration of sound as a design element of live theatrical performance.

THEATRE/ART 372 — SET DESIGN I

3 credits.

Principles of composition, scale, perspective, and color applied to the stage; production of ground plans, elevations, sketches, and models.

THEATRE 379 — INTRODUCTION TO STAGE MANAGEMENT

3 credits.

Principles of stage management from auditions through closing night. Class work and supplementary production experience.

THEATRE/GEN&WS 415 — INTRODUCTION TO CONTEMPORARY FEMINIST THEATRE AND CRITICISM

3 credits.

Introduction to the history, literature and theory of feminist theatre and of feminist criticism of mainstream theatre in the United States from 1960 to the present.

THEATRE/DANCE/FOLKLORE 421 — JAVANESE PERFORMANCE REPERTORY

2 credits.

Introduction to Javanese theatre performance in a Javanese epic tradition. Includes use of Javanese gamelan music as accompaniment for dance drama.

THEATRE/LITTRANS 423 — IN TRANSLATION: SLAVIC DRAMA IN CONTEXT

3 credits.

Slavic playwrights and the European tradition of theatre and drama.

THEATRE 424 — CONTEMPORARY WORLD THEATRE AND DRAMATIC LITERATURE

3 credits.

Considers important current trends in performance and dramatic literature worldwide. Writing component includes both literary and performance criticism. When possible, some course materials are linked to University Theatre productions.

THEATRE/CURRIC 426 — HISTORY, THEORY, AND DRAMATIC CRITICISM IN THEATRE FOR YOUNG AUDIENCES

3-4 credits.

Historiographical perspectives in theatre for young audiences; analysis of plays for young people, theoretical implications, assumptions, current developments.

THEATRE 431 — HISTORY OF THEATRES AND STAGING

3 credits.

Theatre architecture, scenery, costume, acting, directing, and modes of staging in Europe from 500 B.C.

THEATRE 440 — MUSICAL PERFORMANCE FOR THE ACTOR

3 credits.

Styles and genres of the modern American and British musical theatre for performers. Their application to audition techniques and scene/song presentations.

THEATRE 450 — ACTING STYLES

1-3 credits.

Study and demonstration of the various acting styles from the Greek to the modern. Concentration on two specific styles in a semester.

THEATRE 451 — ACTING FOR THE CAMERA

4 credits.

Focuses on the principles of acting for the camera including industry terms, auditioning techniques, and acting techniques for film/television, industrials, and commercials. Learn tools for script analysis, character development, and on-camera performance which will be recorded and critiqued in class.

Requisites: THEATRE 250

Course Designation: Level - Intermediate
L&S Credit - Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S

Repeatable for Credit: No

Last Taught: Fall 2023

Learning Outcomes: 1. Demonstrate the basic vocabulary, etiquette, and procedures involved in acting for the camera.
Audience: Undergraduate

2. Develop text analysis skills and implement research into performance.
Audience: Undergraduate

3. Expressively perform for the camera through active listening, reacting, subtext, and business.
Audience: Undergraduate

4. Apply the necessary adaptations in acting techniques from the stage to the screen.
Audience: Undergraduate

5. Exhibit critical on-camera audition skills.
Audience: Undergraduate

6. Identify the various production roles of on-camera and “behind the camera” personnel.
Audience: Undergraduate

THEATRE/CURRIC 462 — THEATRE FOR YOUNG AUDIENCES: PRODUCTION

3-6 credits.

A practical class: preparation and performance of a production for young audiences, with development and implementation of accompanying educational material.

THEATRE 464 — COSTUME TECHNOLOGY TOPICS

3-4 credits.

Examines techniques used to create costumes. Rotating topics including draping, period patternmaking, tailoring, crafts, and painting. When taken for 4 credits, a lab component required.

THEATRE 466 — STAGE LIGHTING DESIGN II

3-4 credits.

Detailed study of lighting design techniques and professional practices for commercial and resident theatres.

THEATRE 469 — INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES IN THE ARTS

1-4 credits.

Guest artists offer interdisciplinary courses on topics appropriate to their specializations.

THEATRE 472 — SCENIC PAINTING

3 credits.

Painting scenery for the stage. Techniques for painting drops, flats, and props in a range of illusion effects.

THEATRE/ENGL 477 — DIASPORA AND THEATRE

3 credits.

Study of the drama and theatre of a variety of immigrant communities in three Western locations: Britain, the United States, and Canada. Focuses on current theories of diaspora and transnationalism, the place of theatre in diasporic writing, and the literary, performative, and material dimensions of the genre.

THEATRE 500 — THE BUSINESS OF THE BUSINESS

3 credits.

Explores the real-world practicalities of the business side of show business, and gives students the business tools and resources necessary to be successful as directors, designers, stage managers, and technicians. Addresses the unique business demands of working artists.

THEATRE 501 — THE BUSINESS OF ACTING

3 credits.

Teaches actors the vital, non-performance skills and knowledge needed to launch professional acting careers. Knowledge of self-promoting, marketing, unions, networking, headshot/resumes, agents, casting directors, trade publications, and more will empower the actor and ease their transition into the professional world.

THEATRE/CURRIC 525 — THEATRE IN EDUCATION

3-4 credits.

Theory and practice of theatre in elementary and secondary educational settings. Devise, script, and present programs as actor-teachers and interact with audiences.

THEATRE 526 — THE THEATRES OF CHINA AND JAPAN

3 credits.

An advanced study of the theatres of China and Japan in relation to aesthetics and form.

THEATRE 541 — ACTING SHAKESPEARE

1-3 credits.

Studio presentation of Shakespearean drama with emphasis on language and verse structure; techniques for enhancing performances skills.

THEATRE 550 — ADVANCED SCENE STUDY

1-3 credits.

Intensive scene study from the major works of selected modern playwrights.

THEATRE 561 — BACKSTAGE LABORATORY III

1-2 credits.

Emphasis on fulfilling one major assignment in theatre performance or production situation such as actor, stage manager, master carpenter, wardrobe master, properties master.

THEATRE/CURRIC 562 — DRAMA IN EDUCATION: ADVANCED STUDIES

3-4 credits.

Advanced studies in theories and practices of drama in education.

THEATRE 563 — COSTUME DESIGN II

3 credits.

Problems in use of line, form, color, texture, and movement in the design of costumes for the stage. Class projects include investigation into classical and contemporary drama.

THEATRE 570 — ADVANCED STAGECRAFT

3 credits.

An intensive study of stage rigging, scenic locomotion, set construction and structural analysis techniques.

THEATRE/ART 572 — SET DESIGN II

3 credits.

Historical survey of visual theatre, painting, and architectural styles adapted to various dramatic forms. Application of design elements and styles to contemporary theatre productions.

THEATRE/ENGL 575 — BRITISH DRAMA, 1914 TO PRESENT

3 credits.

Plays and playwrights from the first World War to the present, including movements leading to the "revolt" of 1956 and subsequent proletarian and absurdist drama. Plays by Shaw, O'Casey, Maugham, Coward, Eliot, Osborne, Beckett, Pinter, Stoppard, Arden, Wesker, Bond, Churchill and others.

THEATRE/ENGL 576 — SURVEY: THEORIES OF DRAMA

3 credits.

Selected major critical and theoretical sources, from Aristotle to the present day; the influences of theories upon playwriting and modes of theatrical production.

THEATRE/ENGL 577 — POSTCOLONIAL THEATRE: DRAMA, THEORY AND PERFORMANCE IN THE GLOBAL SOUTH

3 credits.

Study of drama, dramatic theory and theatrical practices in postcolonial cultures, primarily in Asia, Africa and the Caribbean. Considers status of drama/theatre in postcolonial studies and focuses on issues of form, language, intertextuality, trans-culturation, material organization and reception.

THEATRE/ENGL 578 — MODERN AMERICAN DRAMA AND THEATRE

3 credits.

Representative twentieth-century plays from Glaspell and O'Neill to the present considered within contemporary cultural, theatrical and academic context.

THEATRE 579 — ADVANCED CONCEPTS IN STAGE MANAGEMENT

2 credits.

Advanced study of organizational behaviors, theatre infrastructures, styles communication techniques in relation to Stage Management.

THEATRE 595 — TOPICS IN THEATRE AND DRAMA: STUDY ABROAD

1-6 credits.

A course carried with a UW-Madison study abroad program which has no equivalent on this campus.

THEATRE 597 — INTERNSHIP IN THEATRE

1-6 credits.

Enables theatre majors with a supervised internship to earn academic credit while engaged in a professional setting outside of the University and directly related to their field of study.

THEATRE 619 — SPECIAL TOPICS IN THEATRE AND DRAMA

1-3 credits.

Specialized subjects of current interest in design, performance, technology, history, dramatic theory, literature criticism, and theatre/drama education.

THEATRE 631 — THEORIES OF ACTING

3 credits.

Interdisciplinary and cross-cultural seminar on the historical, cultural, performative, aesthetic, and ideological construction of acting on stage.

THEATRE 661 — ADVANCED PRODUCTION PRACTICUM

1-3 credits.

Provides students the opportunity to apply their knowledge in a production setting. Enrollment is limited to designated Dramaturg, Lighting Designer, Costume Designer, Set Designer, Technical Director, Assistant Dramaturg, Assistant Designers, or Assistant Technical Director on a season production for the University Theatre.

THEATRE 681 — SENIOR HONORS THESIS

3 credits.

Mentored individual study for students completing honor theses. For further information, consult the department's Undergraduate Advisor.

THEATRE 682 — SENIOR HONORS THESIS

3 credits.

Mentored individual study for students completing honor theses. For further information, consult the department's Undergraduate Advisor.

THEATRE 691 — SENIOR THESIS

2-3 credits.

Mentored individual study for students completing theses.

THEATRE 692 — SENIOR THESIS

2-3 credits.

Mentored individual study for students completing theses.

THEATRE 698 — DIRECTED STUDY

1-6 credits.

Collaborate with instructor for personalized curriculum.

THEATRE 699 — DIRECTED STUDY

1-6 credits.

Collaborate with instructor for personalized curriculum.

THEATRE 713 — ADVANCED DIGITAL DESIGN VISUALIZATION FOR ENTERTAINMENT

3 credits.

Offers advanced knowledge of design visualization for theatrical productions and entertainment events. Focuses on producing clear and effective visual presentations of creative design concepts by using the most cutting edge digital applications that include 3D contents modeling, texturing, still and animated rendering, VR and interactive output packaging.

Requisites: Graduate/professional standing

Course Designation: Grad 50% - Counts toward 50% graduate coursework requirement

Repeatable for Credit: No

Learning Outcomes: 1. Transform 2D sketches, technical drawings into 3D shapes with multiple choices including digital modeling tools, sculpting tools and 2.5D postproduction tools including transfer files among the applications.
Audience: Graduate

2. Apply the multiple types of textures to the 3D objects with high level graphic and dimensional qualities, include unwrapping UVW, normal map, bump map, displacement map.
Audience: Graduate

3. Demonstrate advanced effects of lighting, atmosphere, physics, particles within the digital environment.
Audience: Graduate

4. Demonstrate the high-end digital rendering technique and the use of different render engines, virtual camera setting for animation, render output selection and settings.
Audience: Graduate

5. Develop the concept and demonstrate the use of the digital game engine for design visualization.
Audience: Graduate

6. Research, compare and employ the most suitable and efficient applications as the project centered tool and technology setting.
Audience: Graduate

THEATRE/ENGL 731 — ADVANCED THEATRE HISTORY 500 BC TO 1700

3 credits.

Problems of scholarship in the dramatic, performance and staging practices of major traditions of world theatre history between 500 BCE and 1700 including the theatres of ancient Greece and Rome; medieval, Renaissance and early modern Europe; and the Muromachi and Tokugawa eras in Japan.

THEATRE/ENGL 732 — ADVANCED THEATRE HISTORY 1700 TO PRESENT

3 credits.

Problems of scholarship in the dramatic, performance and staging practices of major traditions of world theatre history since 1700, including melodrama, naturalism, the avant-garde, and other movements that helped shaped contemporary theatre.

THEATRE 763 — COSTUME DESIGN III

3 credits.

Advanced problems in costume design for the stage.

THEATRE 770 — ADVANCED THEATRE TECHNOLOGY

3 credits.

Detailed study of research and practice in the physical theatre and its scenic devices.

THEATRE 799 — INDEPENDENT STUDY

1-6 credits.

Collaborate with instructor for personalized curriculum.

THEATRE 911 — SEMINAR-PROBLEMS IN THEATRE AND DRAMA

2-3 credits.

Topics variable.

THEATRE 970 — COLLABORATIVE DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY STUDIO

3 credits.

Graduate seminar focused on providing advanced students in design and technology opportunities to collaborate on projects within the classroom.

THEATRE 990 — RESEARCH AND THESIS

1-9 credits.

Independent research and writing under the supervision of a staff member.

THEATRE 999 — INDEPENDENT STUDY

1-3 credits.

Independent pursuit of a creative project designed by the student and supervised by a staff member.