THTR 110 - Introduction to Theater

Institution:

Case Western Reserve University

Subject:

Description:

THTR 110 is a fundamental study of theatre from the standpoint of developing the critical acumen of a potential audience. It covers each ingredient of the theatrical experience--audience, playwriting, acting, directing, theatre architecture, design and technology--and attempts to help students define a reasonable set of standards to judge that part of the experience as an audience member and to clearly communicate their feelings and thoughts regarding that experience. The primary textbook is Edward Wilson's The Theatre Experience, former theatre critic for The Wall Street Journal. Readings in this text are augmented by the reading of specific plays that represent different periods, genres, conventions, and dramatic styles. Representative plays (typically six each semester) include Oedipus Rex (Sophocles), Hamlet (Shakespeare), Tartuffe (Molliere), Uncle Vanya (Chekhov), Waiting for Godot (Beckett), and Angels in America (Kushner). Many of these plays are supplemented by short films prepared by Films for the Humanities so that students can see examples of various dramatic and theatrical styles in performance. In addition to class discussions, lectures, and readings, students are also required to attend two live theatre productions offered by Case Western Reserve University's Department of Theater each semester. The students write critical essays about their experience as an audience member in relation to a particular aspect of the performance. Students also have an opportunity to complete in-class projects in which they gain experience functioning as a theatre practitioner. These projects and the accompanying written assignment are designed to increase the student's understanding of the function and interdependence of various theatre artists.

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.case.edu

Phone Number:

(216) 368-2000

Regional Accreditation:

North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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