Course Meeting Times
Lectures: 2 sessions / week, 1.5 hours / session
Prerequisites
None
Course Description
This course focuses on developing skills in the reading of scripts for the theater. We will examine how scene construction, use of theatrical strategies such as setting, lighting, and dialogue express story and theme, what choices the script makes available to the actor and director, and how language contributes to the construction of a dramatic world.
Course Requirements
Since there will be a lot of class discussion of each script, any absences over two (excused or unexcused) will lower the class member’s grade.
Reading assignments must be completed before the first day of discussion. Don’t try to fake it.
All papers must be submitted, electronically or hard copy, when they are due. Rewrites or revisions may be required. Please make enough paper copies to distribute to the rest of the class for their comments, or be sure to send your electronic copy to the class mailing list.
Graded Course Components
- Class attendance and participation
- Two papers (8–10 pages)
- Final project: an in-class presentation, with an accompanying paper (10–15 pages)
- A final paper evaluating the course, reviewing your work in the course, and recording your grade (5-7 pages)
