THDA 350, Directing for the Stage: This course prepares advanced theater students to direct public performances, and thus focuses on the acquisition of skills such as text analysis, dynamic storytelling, stage composition, and communication (with designers, actors, stage managers, and production team). Students will choose a scene from a play proposed by the instructor, research style and aesthetic, run auditions, cast the scene, facilitate a rehearsal process, and stage a live performance. They will also learn best collaborative practices, since the class unfolds in conversation with the Acting Approaches course (THDA360) and culminates in public performances at the Huber-Seikaly Theater.
Frequency: Every Spring.
Prerequisite(s): THDA 120 and THDA 235, or permission of the instructor.
Course Objectives
- To explore and develop the skills to direct scenes for public performance
- To develop skills in text analysis, running a rehearsal, communication within collaboration, analyzing productions and working with actors of different skill levels
- To engage in the creative process of directing scenes for public performance
Methodology
Students will achieve these objectives through class participation, writing assignments, performance assignments, research, and journaling.
Evaluation
- Participation (communication)/Attendance: 25%
- Demonstrate curiosity and understanding of material by showing up to class and articulating one’s thoughts.
- This will include a check in before Spring Break.
- Directing skill building: 25%
- Demonstrate an understanding of directing skills through class exercise, assignments and discussion.
- Collaboration: 15%
- Demonstrate through interaction with designers, actors, and production team.
- Directing Scenes: 15%
- Demonstrate the classroom learning into the directing scenes.
- Digital Journal: 20%
- Demonstrate a complete and thorough digital journal of the entire process.