Theatre

College of Arts, Media, and Communication

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Chair: Peter Grego
Department Office: Nordhoff Hall (NH) 110
(818) 677-3086
www.csun.edu/theatre

Faculty

John Binkley
Barry Cleveland
Anamarie Dwyer
Peter Grego
Ah-Jeong Kim
Lillian Lehman
Garry Lennon
J’aime Morrison
John D. Swain

Emeritus Faculty

Jerry W. Abbitt
Helen Backlin
Willard F. Bellman
Ruth Brown
Heinrich Falk
George Gunkle
Margaret B. Randal
William E. Schlosser
Owen W. Smith

Theatre Staff

Dennis Dillon (Scene Shop Supervisor)
Richard Greaver (Production Stage Manager/Outside Event Technical Director)
Maro Parian (Costume Shop Supervisor)
William Taylor (Theatre Manager)
Michael Zeigler (Lighting/Sound Shop Supervisor)

Degree Programs

Undergraduate Degree Offered:

B.A., Theatre
English/Theatre Subject Matter Advising for the English Single Subject Credential

Graduate Degree Offered:

M.A., Theatre

Accreditation

The Theatre Department is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre

Department Mission

The Bachelor of Arts degree in theatre within the context of a broad-based liberal arts education, offers an integrative, balanced program of studies that prepares students to enter the field of theatre, undertake specialized graduate study or to draw upon their theatre education in other fields and pursuits. We emphasize the power of imagination, passion, discipline, and collaboration in theatre. We believe a systematic study of theatre in its many aspects can impart lifelong skills in creative problem solving, effective teamwork, and interpersonal communications. Central to our mission is superior teaching; our classroom encompasses the studio, the stage, and the technical laboratory. Our production curriculum provides a dynamic and multifaceted outreach component that enables the Department both to draw upon and serve all segments of the larger community. The Department of Theatre is committed to diversity in all areas and to international education experiences in the Los Angeles area and the world. The Master of Arts program provides a broad based education in theatre, preparing students for theatre-related careers and for further study in theatre history, literature, and theory. Within the University community, we provide opportunities for non-majors to engage and participate in our department, introducing the arts into their degree plans. In addition, we play a vital role in contributing theatre education to the preparation of Elementary and Secondary Education teachers.

Department Programs

The B.A. and the M.A. degree programs are designed to enrich the student’s aesthetic and intellectual needs in the areas of theatrical production, theatre history, literature, and criticism, and to provide pre-professional training. As a lab for the formal training in the classroom, undergraduate students are required to participate in department sponsored production activities each semester. Theatre CSUN functions as the department’s formal producing organization. Eight or more full-length productions of dramas, musicals, and operas are cast, rehearsed and mounted annually by faculty, staff, students and guest artists. These productions are available for student participants on an audition or volunteer basis. All aspects of the program are carefully coordinated with the theatre curriculum. Three minor options in theatre are designed to provide an organized program in theatre arts for students who wish to augment a major in another field.

Careers

The B.A. degree in Theatre prepares a student for advanced study in a pre-professional (M.F.A.) or academic (M.A.) program. It also serves as preliminary study for a performance and/or production career in live theatre as well as the allied industries of television and cinema. The interpersonal and collaborative skills learned in the program will serve the graduate well in a variety of related disciplines including the fields of education (both as teacher and administrator), psychology, law and a variety of private and governmental positions where a well-rounded liberal arts education will provide the flexibility and broad base of knowledge likely to be required in future careers.

Academic Advisement

All majors are assigned a faculty advisor according to their area(s) of interest. Contact the Department for more information. Please contact, Ah-Jeong Kim, the Department’s Director of Graduate Studies and graduate advisor. Contact Anamarie Dwyer for Credential advisement.

Student Learning Outcomes of the Undergraduate Program

1 The student will know and be able to process sensory information and respond to sensory information through the language unique to theatre.
The student will know and be able to apply their knowledge of artistic and theatre processes through production participation.
The student will know and be able to apply historical, cultural, and literary understandings to the creation of theatre.
The student will know and be able to apply appropriate criteria to make informed assessments of quality in works of theatre.

5. The student will know and be able to develop intra and interpersonal skills essential to the collaborative process in theatre.

Credential Information

The Department of Theatre, in cooperation with the Department of English, offers an Extended Studies in Theatre that can be chosen as part of obtaining an English Credential. Students interested in securing a teaching credential in English should first consult with the English Credential Advisor in the English Department. For details on the Single Subject Credential program see the Credentials and the Department of Secondary Education sections in the catalog.

International Study

The Department of Theatre encourages students to investigate opportunities for overseas study. Certain courses taken at CSU International Program Study Centers in foreign countries are equivalent to courses in the Department of Theatre and may be used to fulfill graduation requirements. Students should consult the campus International Programs Advisor for more information.

Theatre Honors Program

The Theatre Honors Program is a special curricular enhancement for outstanding students in the theatre major. Students become eligible to participate in the Theatre Honors Program at the beginning of their Junior year and will normally complete the program requirements during the ensuing 4 semesters. The program consists of 2 major components:

Honors Seminars and
an Honors Project or Thesis.

The Honors Seminars, which extend over the first 3 semesters of a student’s participation in the Theatre Honors Program, provide a unique opportunity to engage in intensive investigations and discussions of significant aspects of theatre practice and theory with a small group of fellow Honors students and senior faculty. The Honors Project or Thesis gives Honors students the opportunity to integrate their theatre studies and apply their knowledge and understanding of theatre art to the independent investigation of a significant topic or problem under the direction of a faculty mentor. Honors students will subsequently receive departmental support for the completion of an artistic project or written research thesis based on their investigation.

Admission to the Theatre Honors Program

Students may apply for admission to the Theatre Honors Program upon completion of the following:

All 100 and 200-level Requirements in Theatre;
A minimum of nine units of theatre courses taken at CSUN;
Attainment of a minimum 3.25 GPA in all Theatre courses taken at CSUN or transferred for credit towards the degree;
Attainment of a minimum 3.00 GPA in all undergraduate work.

Student applications for admission to the Theatre Honors Program will normally be submitted near the end of the Sophomore year. In every case applications will require the support of a CSUN Theatre Department faculty member. Applications to the Theatre Honors Program will be reviewed by the Honors Committee, which normally consists of the Honors Advisor and the Coordinators of the several curricular areas of the Theatre Department.

Requirements of the Theatre Honors Program

In order to graduate with Honors in Theatre, students must have completed the following:

TH 397 Honors Tutorial (1-1-1) Students will enroll in this semester over a three-semester period, earning one unit of credit for each semester they are enrolled. No more than one unit of credit can be earned in any given semester.
TH 498F Senior Honors Project or Thesis (3) Students will normally complete this requirement during their last semester of enrollment. During the preceding semester, the student will prepare, in consultation with a faculty mentor, a project/thesis proposal outlining the proposed investigation and the artistic project or written research thesis anticipated to result from this investigation.
Attainment of a minimum 3.5 GPA in all upper division (300, 400, 500-level) theatre courses taken at CSUN. The 6 units of Theatre Honors courses required for this program will be substituted for 6 Upper Division required units in the major in consultation with the student’s advisor.

Academic Advisement

Prior to each semester’s course registration period, each theater major is required to meet with their faculty advisor to discuss course selection and assess the student’s academic progress. Once a schedule for the following semester is jointly approved the student receives departmental permission to register for classes on line.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Arts Degree

To obtain the B.A. degree with a major in Theatre a student must have at least a 2.0 grade point average in all upper division theatre courses (including courses transferred from other institutions and applied towards the requirements in the major), and must have taken at least 18 units of upper division theatre courses in residence. Students may not receive credit for more than 72 units of theatre courses (including courses transferred from other institutions and applied towards the requirements in the major). Any exceptions to this limitation must be individually approved in writing by the student’s advisor and the Department Chair before registration will be allowed.

Production Participation

All theatre majors are required to complete one department-sponsored production assignment each semester of residence. Completed assignments should reflect the broad spectrum of theatre production areas, including, but not limited to: acting, directing, scenery, costumes, properties, lighting, sound, makeup, technology, management, and dramaturgy. Courses that require a production assignment as part of the course (TH 261, 262, 263, 276, 284, 339, 361A, 361B, 362A, 362B, 363A, 363B, 367, 376, 382ABC, 383, 384, 443, 498B, 498C, and 498D) will fulfill the production assignment for the semester during which the course is taken. Theatre majors are required to receive credit for either TH 191 (lower division) or TH 391 (upper division) each semester to validate their production assignment.

1. Lower Division Required Courses (16 Units)

TH 102 Theatre: Form and Content (3)
TH 142 Introduction to Theatre Performance (2)
TH 142A Introduction to Stage Voice and Movement (1)
TH 191 Production Practicum (0-0-0)
TH 242 Basic Acting Technique (3)
TH 242A Basic Stage Voice and Movement Technique (1)
TH 261 Fundamentals of Scenery and Properties Technology (2)
TH 262 Fundamentals of Costume Technology (2)
TH 263 Fundamentals of Lighting and Sound Technology (2)

2. Upper Division Required Courses (36 Units)

TH 322A World Theatre and Drama I (3)
TH 322B World Theatre and Drama II (3)
TH 322C World Theatre and Drama III (3)
TH 350 Cultural and Historical Perspectives for Theatre (3)
TH 355 Principles of Stage Design (2)
TH 381 Management Techniques for the Theatre (1)
TH 391 Production Practicum (0-0-0)
TH 444 Principles of Directing (3)

Select a minimum of 3 units from the following:

TH 339 Improvisational Comedy (3)
TH 342 Intermediate Stage Movement (2)
TH 343 Intermediate Stage Voice and Speech (3)
TH 348 Acting the Text (2)
TH 376 Production Preparation and Performance: Theatre for Young Audiences (3)
TH 384 Touring Theatre (3)
TH 390 Theatre Production Participation [Acting] (1)
or TH 490 Theatre Production Participation [Acting] (1)
TH 545 Advanced Directing (3)

Select a minimum of 3 units from the following:

TH 361A Intermediate Scenery and Properties Technology (2)
TH 361B Intermediate Scenic Art Techniques (2)
TH 362A Intermediate Costume Technology (2)
TH 362B Intermediate Costume Crafts (2)
TH 363A Intermediate Lighting Technology (2)
TH 363B Intermediate Sound Technology (2)
TH 382A-C Theatre Management Practicum (1-3)

Select one course from the following (3 Units):

TH 422 Theatre and Drama of Greece and Rome (3)
TH 423 Theatre and Drama of the Middle Ages and Renaissance (3)
TH 424 Theatre and Drama of the 18th and 19th Centuries (3)
TH 425 Theatre and Drama of Europe and America from Naturalism to the Mid 20th Century (3)
TH 426 Contemporary Theatre and Drama of Europe and America (3)
TH 427 History of Costume (3)
TH 432 Theatre and Drama of the United States (3)
TH 433 The Musical Theatre in the United States (3)
TH 475 Theatre and Drama for Young Audiences (3)
TH 530 Theatre and Drama of Latin America (3)
TH 531 Theatre and Drama of Asia (3)
TH 535 Theatrical Theory and Criticism (3)

3. Theatre Production Participation Or Electives (0-9 Units)

TH 390 Theatre Production Participation (1-2-3)
or TH 490 Theatre Production Participation (1-2-3)
or Electives selected from any 300, 400 or 500-level courses for which prerequisites have been met.

Total Units in the Option: 52
General Education Units: 48
Additional Units: 20
Total Units Required for the Degree: 120

Minor In Theatre

Requirements

Students who desire to acquire a minor in theatre may select from the following three minor options:

Option I. Theatre History/Literature Minor Option Option II. Theatre Acting/Directing Minor Option Option III. Theatre Design/Technology Minor Option

Note that TH 102 is the introductory course required in each of the minor options and must be taken before any of the other courses in the minor. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with a department advisor as early as possible to discuss the minor.

A. Minor Option I: Theatre History/literature Minor (27 Units)

1. Required Courses (15 Units)

TH 102 Theatre: Form and Content (3)
TH 322A World Theatre and Drama I (3)
TH 322B World Theatre and Drama II (3)
TH 322C World Theatre and Drama III (3)
TH 350 Cultural and Historical Perspectives for Theatre (3)

Select three courses from the following (9 units):

TH 422 Theatre and Drama of Greece and Rome (3)
TH 423 Theatre and Drama of the Middle Ages and Renaissance (3)
TH 424 Theatre and Drama of the 18th and 19th Centuries (3)
TH 425 Theatre and Drama of Europe and America From Naturalism to the Mid-20th Century (3)
TH 426 Contemporary Theatre and Drama of Europe and America (3)
TH 427 History of Costume (3)
TH 432 Theatre and Drama of the United States (3)
or TH 433 The Musical Theatre in the United States (3)
TH 535 Theatrical Theory and Criticism (3)

Select one course from the following (3 units):

TH 530 Theatre and Drama of Latin America (3)
TH 531 Theatre and Drama of Asia (3)

Total Units Required Minor Option I: 27

B. Minor Option II: Theatre Acting/directing (26 Units)

1. Required Courses: (19 Units)

TH 102 Theatre: Form and Content (3)
TH 142 Introduction to Theatre Performance (2)
TH 142A Introduction to Stage Voice and Movement (1)
TH 191 Production Practicum (0)
TH 242 Basic Acting Technique (3)
TH 242A Basic Stage Voice and Movement Technique (1)
TH 315 World Drama (3)
TH 350 Cultural and Historical Perspectives for Theatre (3)
TH 391 Production Practicum (0-0)
TH 444 Principles of Directing (3)

Select seven units from the following:

TH 339 Improvisational Comedy (3)
TH 342 Intermediate Stage Movement (2)
TH 343 Intermediate Stage Voice and Speech (3)
TH 348 Acting the Text (2)
TH 545 Advanced Directing (3)
TH 390 Theatre Production Participation (Acting) (1)
or TH 490 Theatre Production Participation (Acting) (1)

Total Units Required in Minor Option II:26

C. Minor Option III: Theatre Design/technology (26 Units)

1. Required Courses (18 Units)

TH 102 Theatre: Form and Content (3)
TH 191 Production Practicum (0)
TH 261 Fundamentals of Scenery and Properties Technology (2)
TH 262 Fundamentals of Costume Technology (2)
TH 263 Fundamentals of Lighting and Sound Technology (2)
TH 315 World Drama (3)
TH 350 Cultural and Historical Perspectives for Theatre (3)
TH 355 Principles of Stage Design (2)
TH 381 Management Techniques for the Theatre (1)
TH 391 Production Practicum (0-0)

Select eight units from the following:

TH 361A Intermediate Scenery and Properties Technology (2)
TH 361B Intermediate Scenic Art Techniques (2)
TH 362A Intermediate Costume Technology (2)
TH 362B Intermediate Costume Crafts (2)
TH 363A Intermediate Lighting Technology (2)
TH 363B Intermediate Sound Technology (2)
TH 382 Theatre Management Practicum (1-3)

Total Units Required in the Minor Option III: 26

Requirements for the Master of Arts Degree in Theatre

Required for Admission to Classified Graduate Status in the Program

Baccalaureate degree and a minimum of 24 units of Upper Division theatre courses, normally distributed as follows:
a. Acting (3 units);
b. Directing (3 units);
c. Theatre Design/Technology (6 units);
d. Theatre History/Literature/Criticism (12 units).
University requirements for Classified Graduate status.
Successful completion of departmental qualifying procedures.

Note: Students should consult with the department concerning GRE requirement.

Required for the M.A. Degree

1. Required Courses (30 Units)

A. Minimum of 30 units of approved courses, distributed as follows:

1. TH 600 Seminar in Research Methods and Bibliography in Theatre (3)

2. Select two courses from the following: (6 Units):

TH 620 Seminar in Theatre History (3)
TH 621 Seminar in Theatrical Literature (3)
TH 625 Seminar in Popular Theatre and Entertainment (3)

3. Select two courses from the following (6 Units):

TH 630 Seminar in Theatre Aesthetics (3)
TH 640 Seminar in Acting and Directing (3)
TH 670 Seminar in Child Drama (3)

4. Select courses from the following (12 units):

TH 695A-Z Theories in Drama and Theatre (3-3-3)
TH 699 Independent Study (1-3, 1-3)

600-level courses not selected for credit under sections 2 and 3 above (3, 3).

Approved 400 and 500-level courses not taken for undergraduate credit or for admission to Classified Graduate status (3, 3, 3, 3).

(With the prior written approval of the student’s permanent graduate advisor, up to 6 units of courses in section 4 may be taken in related fields.)

TH 698 Thesis or Graduate Project (3)
B. Students planning to continue graduate study in theatre in a doctoral program are advised to also attain proficiency in a foreign language or competency in statistics.

Total Units Required for the M.A. Degree: 30

Course List

TH 102. Theatre: Form and Content (3): Foundation course for the theatre major and minor. Introduction to theatre as an art form; its relationship to its audience and the other arts; the collaborative role of theatre artists in preparing and presenting live theatrical productions; analysis of textual form. Regular critical writing assignments and attendance at selected university-sponsored and professional theatre events required.
TH 110. Plays and Players (3): Not open to theatre majors. Introduction to theatre through an emphasis on experiencing the play. Consideration of the theatre as an art form through play going and play-reading. (Available for General Education, Arts and Humanities)
TH 111. Actors and Acting (3): Not open to theatre majors. Introduction to theatre through an emphasis upon its central performer, the actor. Illustrative acting exercises. (Available for General Education, Arts and Humanities)
TH 120/L. Arts Immersion: Theatre and Lab (1/1): Prerequisite: Limited to students in the ITEP-Freshman Option. Corequisite: TH 120L.Introductory course in which students engage in the study and practice of theatre and process drama. Exploration of the role of playwright, director, designer, actor, technician and dramaturg/critic as they relate to the art of theatre and the design of drama experiences for children. Focuses on identifying and experiencing the relationship of theatre and drama experiences for children to learning and achievement. Students are expected to apply and integrate the knowledge of the art form under study to all of the arts, and to address the five standards of the Visual and Performing Arts Framework in a holistic manner. Includes 1 hour of lecture; two hours of lab per week.
TH 142. Introduction to Theatre Performance (2): Recommended Corequisite: TH 142A.Introduction to theatre performance; studio experiences exploring the foundation skills in acting and directing and the relationship of the actor and director. Fourhours per week.
TH 142A. Stage Voice and Movement (1): Recommended Corequisite: TH 142.Understanding the function of voice and movement training; introduction to physical and vocal awareness; foundation exercises for the development of voice and body for the actor. Two hours per week
TH 190. Theatre Production Participation (1-1): Participation in various aspects of Theatre CSUN’s production program: acting, directing, technical, or managerial assignments. May be repeated once.
TH 191. Production Practicum (0-0-0): Required of all lower division theatre majors. Carries no unit credit but validates production participation. (Credit/No Credit only)
TH 242. Basic Acting Technique (3): Prerequisites: TH 102; 142/A.Recommended Corequisite: 242A. Studio course that explores the vocabulary, elements, and skills of the actor’s craft through group work, prepared exercises, improvisation, monologues, and scenes. Lecture six hours per week.
TH 242A. Stage Voice Movement Technique (1): Prerequisites: TH 102; 142/A.Recommended Corequisite: 242. Development and refinement of exercises to promote optimum use of voice, speech, and body as tools for the actor. Two hours per week.
TH 249. Tutorial in Performance Skills (1-1-1-1): Prerequisite: Audition.Diagnosis of individual strengths and weaknesses in performance skills; individual tutorials directed at improvement of skills and correction of problems. Complements work in Theatre CSUN’s production program. May be repeated three times. (Credit/No Credit only)
TH 261. Fundamentals of Scenery and
Properties Technology (2): Prerequisite: TH 102.Practical introduction to the theories and application of construction techniques for the scenic environment; visual language, principles, techniques, and tools used in creating scenery and properties; safety in the theatre. Required participation in a university-sponsored production.
TH 262. Fundamentals of Costume Technology (2): Prerequisite: TH 102.Practical introduction to the theory and application of costume and accessory construction for the stage; use of equipment, fabrics, and materials appropriate to costume technology. Required participation in a university-sponsored production.
TH 263. Fundamentals of Lighting and Sound Technology (2): Prerequisites: TH 102; 261.Introduction to technical principles and applications of stage lighting and sound; basic lighting and sound equipment, nomenclature, skills, and practices used in creating lighting and sound for stage productions. Required participation in a university-sponsored production.
TH 276. Production Preparation and Performance: Theatre for Young Audiences (3): Prerequisite: Audition/Interview.Preparation and performance of a university-sponsored production for young audiences.
TH 284. Touring Theatre (3): Prerequisite: Audition/Interview.Participation in the preparation and presentation of a university-sponsored touring theatre production.
TH 290. Theatre Production Participation (1-1): Participation in various aspects of Theatre CSUN’s production program: acting, directing, technical, or managerial assignments. May be repeated once.
TH 296A-Z. Experimental Topics Courses in Theatre (1-3, 1-3): Prerequisite: Consult Theatre Department office.Experimental courses in theatre with course content to be determined. May be repeated once.

Upper Division

TH 304. Process Drama and the Child (1): Prerequisite: TH 120; Restricted to students in the ITEP-Freshman Option.Provides students the opportunity to revisit Theatre and apply their knowledge of this area to working with children and develop skills as a leader of drama experiences for children through the practice of planning, implementing and evaluating drama experiences with peers and in the context of field based-settings. Two hours of lab per week.
TH 310. Theatre in Performance (3): Prerequisite: Completion of the lower division writing requirement.Not open to theatre majors. Introduction to the theatre through the experience of attending performances, preparatory lectures, and post- performance discussions and critiques. Critical writing assignments required. (Available for General Education, Arts and Humanities)
TH 315. World Drama (3): Prerequisite: Completion of the lower division writing requirement. and upper division standing.Not open to theatre majors. Survey of world dramatic literature from primitive times to the present. Studies masterpieces of drama from Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. (Available for General Education, Arts and Humanities) (IC)
TH 322A. World Theatre and Drama I (3): Prerequisite: TH 102.Introductory survey of the history and literature of the western theatre from primitive times through the 18th century. Critical writing assignments required.
TH 322B. World Theatre and Drama II (3): Prerequisite: TH 102.Introductory survey of the history and literature of the western theatre from the 19th century to the present. Critical writing assignments required.
TH 322C. World Theatre and Drama III (3): Prerequisite: TH 102.Introductory survey of the history and literature of the traditional and contemporary theatres of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Critical writing assignments required.
TH 339. Improvisational Comedy (3): Prerequisite: Audition. Introduction to the techniques of improvisational comedy. Develops as an improvisation troupe and subsequently presents public performances.
TH 342. Intermediate Stage Movement (2): Prerequisites: TH 242/A.Intermediate training of the body for stage movement; exercise for strength, flexibility, relaxation, control; physicalization and movement as a part of character development. Fourhours per week.
TH 343. Intermediate Stage Voice and Speech (3): Prerequisites: TH 242/A.Intermediate theory and practice of voice and speech in the theatre. Exercises in stage diction, vocal techniques, phonetics. Six hours per week.
TH 344. Stage Dialects (2): Prerequisite: TH 343.Study of selected stage dialects. Four hours per week.
TH 345. Acting On Camera (3): Prerequisites: TH 348 and completion of lower division requirements in theatre major. Other majors consult department for equivalency.Prepares the student for the particular demands of acting in front of the camera. Techniques of blocking, text analysis, cold-reading, character presentation, scene preparation, vocabulary, camera shots. Six hours per week.
TH 346. Musical Theatre Workshop I (3): Prerequisites: MUS 238A and completion of lower division requirements in theatre major.Study of the special acting, vocal, and movement skills required for performance in musical theatre. Six hours per week.
TH 347. Musical Theatre Workshop II (3): Prerequisites: TH 346 and Audition.Application of basic acting, vocal, and movement skills acquired in TH 346. Musical scene study and performance. Class meets six hours per week.
TH 348. Acting the Text (2): Prerequisites: TH 242/A.Dramatic structure; methods of text analysis for the actor; application through lab experience to specific texts and scenes. Fourhours per week.
TH 349. Scene Study (3): Prerequisite: TH 348. Recommended Corequisites or Preparatory: TH 342; 343.Studio course emphasizing text analysis, character development, and scene study; application of these skills to modern and contemporary dramatic texts. Six hours per week.
TH 350. Cultural and Historical Perspectives for Theatre (3): Prerequisite: Completion of lower division requirements in theatre major. Preparatory: TH 322A/B.Historical elements as they relate to the staging of period plays: history of architecture, furniture, costume, social modes and manners. Development of dramaturgical research skills. Extensive writing and analysis required.
TH 355. Principles of Stage Design (2): Prerequisites: Completion of lower division requirements in theatre major and one of the following: TH 322A/B/C. Other majors- consult department advisor for equivalency.Introduction to the discursive and non-discursive aspects of stage design, including process, techniques, and language of collaborative production artists; conceptualization of dramatic action, mood, and style through a range of media. Extensive critique of work in progress. Fourhours per week.
TH 357. Theatre Design Presentation Techniques (3): Prerequisites: TH 355 and completion of lower division requirements in theatre major.Studio course exploring media, rendering techniques, and model building for theatre design. Emphasis on depicting scenery and costumes. Six hours per week.
TH 361A. Intermediate Scenery and Properties Technology (2): Prerequisite: Completion of lower division requirements in theatre major.Intermediate principles of realizing technical designs for the stage; construction technology, finishing, rigging, and materials. Required participation in a university-sponsored production.
TH 361B. Intermediate Scenic Art Techniques (2): Prerequisite: completion of lower division requirements in theatre major.Practical experience in the media, tools, and techniques used in the art of scene painting; class projects. Required participation in a university-sponsored production.
TH 362A. Intermediate Costume Technology (2): Prerequisite: completion of lower division requirements in theatre major.Intermediate principles of theory and application of costume construction for the stage; use of equipment, fabrics, and materials appropriate to costume technology. Required participation in a university-sponsored production.
TH 362B. Intermediate Costume Crafts (2): Prerequisite: Completion of lower division requirements in theatre major.Intermediate principles of theory and application of costume crafts for the stage; use of equipment, fabrics, and materials appropriate to costume accessory and craft making; preparation of appropriate accessories. Required participation in a university-sponsored production.
TH 363A. Intermediate Lighting Technology (2): Prerequisite for Theatre major: completion of lower division requirements in theatre major. Other majors-consult department advisor for equivalency.Intermediate course exploring stage lighting, projection equipment, lighting control systems, optical systems, color theory, and current lighting graphic standards as they apply to stage, film, and video. Required participation in a university-sponsored production.
TH 363B. Intermediate Sound Technology (2): Prerequisite: Completion of lower division requirements in theatre major.Study of the use of sound technology in live theatre production. Extensive work with sound generation and sound modification equipment; contemporary practices in sound design and implementation. Required participation in a university sponsored production.
TH 367. Advanced Makeup (2): Prerequisite: TH 350.Practical experience in the application and design of makeup for the stage. Required participation in a university-sponsored production.
TH 371/L. Creative Drama and Lab (2/1): Corequisite: TH 371L.Theory and techniques for developing the creative capacities of children and young people through dramatization; participation and leadership in creative drama. Fourhours per week.
TH 376. Production Preparation and Performance: Theatre for Young Audiences (3): Prerequisite: Audition/Interview.Preparation and performance of a university-sponsored production for young audiences.
TH 381. Management Techniques for the Theatre (1): Prerequisite: completion of lower division requirements in theatre major.Basic principles in management with emphasis on theatrical applications; personnel, time, budgeting, procedures, organization, safety; setting and achieving objectives. Two hours per week.
TH 382A-C. Theatre Management Practicum (1-3): Prerequisites: TH 381 and completion of lower division requirements in theatre major.Practical application of theatre management techniques. Required participation in a university-sponsored production. Maximum of 3 units may be earned.
TH 383. Theatre Administration (3): Prerequisites: TH 381 and completion of lower division requirements in theatre major.Management theories and techniques in theatre administration; organization of personnel media preparation and utilization, fiscal management, and public relations. Required participation in a university-sponsored production.
TH 384. Touring Theatre (3): Prerequisite: Audition/Interview.Theory and practice in the artistic and management aspects of producing theatrical performances for touring; practical experience in producing and presenting touring productions. Required participation in a university-sponsored production.
TH 390A-C. Theatre Production Participation (1-3): Participation in various aspects of Theatre CSUN’s production program: acting, directing, technical, or managerial assignments. Maximum of 4 units may be earned.
TH 391. Production Practicum (0-0-0): Prerequisite: TH 191. Required of all upper division theatre majors. Carries no unit credit but validates production participation. (Credit/No Credit only)
TH 396A-Z. Experimental Topics Courses in Theatre (1-3, 1-3): Prerequisite: consult Theatre Department office.Experimental courses in theatre with course content to be determined. Maximum of six units may be earned.
TH 397. Theatre Honors Tutorial (1-1-1): Prerequisite: admission to Theatre Honors Program.Intensive investigation in a small group of a topic related to some aspect of theatre practice or theory. Maximum of 3 units may be earned.
TH 422. Theatre and Drama of Greece and Rome (3): Prerequisites for Theatre major or minor: TH 322A-C. Other majors consult department advisor for equivalency.Study of the history and literature of the theatre of Greece and Rome. Critical writing assignments required.
TH 423. Theatre and Drama of the Middle Ages and Renaissance (3): Prerequisites for Theatre major or minor: TH 322A-C. Other majors consult department advisor for equivalency.Study of the history and literature of the theatre of medieval Europe, the theatres of Italy, Spain, England, and France during the Renaissance. Critical writing assignments required.
TH 424. Theatre and Drama of the 18th and 19th Centuries (3): Prerequisites for Theatre major or minor: TH 322A-C. Other majors consult department advisor for equivalency.Study of the history and literature of the theatre in Europe from 1700 to the beginnings of naturalism. Critical writing assignments required.
TH 425. Theatre and Drama of Europe and America from Naturalism to the Mid-20th Century (3): Prerequisites for Theatre major or minor: TH 322A-C. Other majors consult department advisor for equivalency.Study of the history and literature of the European and American theatre from the beginnings of naturalism to the mid-20th century. Critical writing assignments required.
TH 426. Contemporary Theatre and Drama of Europe and America (3): Prerequisites for Theatre major or minor: TH 322A-C. Other majors consult department advisor for equivalency.Study of contemporary theatre movements in Europe and America. Critical writing assignments required.
TH 427. History of Costume (3): Prerequisites for Theatre major or minor: TH 322A-C. Other majors consult department advisor for equivalency.Detailed historical study of period fashions in relation to the social background, economic conditions, and general history of the periods as they apply to theatre. Critical writing assignments required.
TH 432. Theatre and Drama of the United States (3): Prerequisites for Theatre major or minor: TH 322A-C.Other majors consult department advisor for equivalency. Study of the history and literature of the American theatre from Colonial times to the mid-20th century. Critical writing assignments required.
TH 433. The Musical Theatre in the United States (3): Prerequisites for Theatre major or minor: TH 322A-C. Other majors consult department advisor for equivalency.Study of the history and literature of the musical theatre in the U.S. from its beginnings to the present. Critical writing assignments required.
TH 442. Advanced Stage Movement (2): Prerequisites: TH 342, 349 and 350.Not available for graduate credit. Performance course in advanced stage movement techniques; modes and manners of theatrical periods from ancient to modern; dance forms of the same periods; application of these studies to the creation of character in period drama. Six hours per week.
TH 443. Advanced Stage Voice and Speech (3): Prerequisites: TH 343, 348 and 349; completion of lower division requirements in theatre major. Not available for graduate credit. Development of advanced voice, speech, analytical, and interpretative skills for the actor; application to the speaking and acting of Shakespearean texts.
TH 444. Principles of Directing (3): Prerequisites for Theatre Major: completion of lower division requirements in Theatre major and senior-standing. For Theatre Minor: completion of lower division requirements in theatre minor and senior-standing.Not available for graduate credit. Theories and techniques of directing plays. Six hours per week.
TH 447. Acting Styles (3): Prerequisites: TH 349, 350 amd 443; completion of lower division requirements in theatre major.Not available for graduate credit. Performance course emphasizing advanced text analysis, character development, and scene study as applied to a wide variety of periods and genres.
TH 449. Tutorial in Performance Skills (1-1-1-1): Prerequisite: Audition.Not available for graduate credit. Diagnosis of individual strengths and weaknesses in performance skills; individual tutorials directed at improvement of skills and correction of problems. Complements work in CSUN’s Theatre production program. May be repeated 3 times. (Credit/No Credit only)
TH 457. Theatre Design Tutorial (3-3-3): Prerequisites: TH 350; 355; 357.Individual work in theatre design with emphasis on scenery, costumes, or lighting. Focuses on developing and presenting design concepts for selected theatre productions. May be repeated twice. Portfolio review required for repeat credit. Maximum of 3 units may be earned for graduate credit.
TH 471. Advanced Creative Drama (3): Prerequisites: TH 371; instructor consent.Comparison of theories, philosophies, and approaches to creative drama in a lab environment through exploration of, and practical experience with, various age levels. Six hours per week.
TH 472. Field Experience in Creative Drama (2): Prerequisite: TH 371. Not available for graduate credit. Observation/participation and discussion of the practical application of creative drama philosophies and methods in a public school environment. 45 hours of field observation/participation required. (Credit/No Credit only)
TH 475. Theatre and Drama for Young Audiences (3): Prerequisites for Theatre Major: TH 322A-C. For Liberal Studies Major in Theatre concentration: TH 111, 310, 371. Other majors consult department advisor for equivalency.Study of philosophies and practices in theatre and drama for young audiences, classic and contemporary, emphasizing critical analysis and evaluation of the form and content of dramatic literature and theatrical production for children and youth.
TH 479. Issues in Contemporary Theatre (3): Prerequisites: For Theatre Major: completion of core requirements in theatre major; For Liberal Studies Major: TH 315, 475; 376 or 384.Not available for graduate credit. Investigation of selected contemporary issues and practices in theatre, including consideration of selected ethical dimensions of the field. Significant research paper or project required.
TH 490. Theatre Production Participation (1-2-3): Not available for graduate credit. Participation in various aspects of CSUN’s Theatre production program: acting, directing, technical, or managerial assignments. Maximum of 4 units may be earned.
TH 496A-Z. Experimental Topics Courses in Theatre (1-3, 1-3): Prerequisite: Consult Theatre Department office.Not available for graduate credit except when specifically approved by the department–consult Director of Graduate Studies. Experimental courses in theatre with course content to be determined. Maximum of 6 units may be earned.
TH 498A. Senior Theatre History/literature Thesis (3): Prerequisites: Theatre Major in Theatre History/Literature Option; approved thesis proposal.Not available for graduate credit. Writing of a thesis resulting from research on a significant topic in theatre history, theatrical literature, or theory and criticism. (Credit/No Credit only)
TH 498B. Senior Theatre Performance Project (3): Prerequisites: Theatre Major in Acting/Directing Option; approved project proposal.Not available for graduate credit. Weekly seminar with additional rehearsal/lab work on a major performance. (Credit/No Credit only)
TH 498C. Senior Theatre Design Project (1-3, 1-3, 1-3): Prerequisites: Theatre Major in Theatre Design/Technology Option; TH 457 and portfolio review.Not available for graduate credit. Production design for theatre. Required participation in a university-sponsored production. Maximum of nine units may be earned. (Credit/No Credit only)
TH 498D. Senior Theatre Technology PROJECT (1-3, 1-3, 1-3): Prerequisites: Theatre Major in Theatre Design/Technology Option; TH 457 and interview.Not available for graduate credit. Technical supervision for theatre. Required participation in a university-sponsored production. Maximum of nine units may be earned. (Credit/No Credit only)
TH 498E. Senior Creative Drama/theatre for Young Audiences Project or Thesis (3): Prerequisites: Theatre Major in Creative Drama/Theatre for Young Audiences Option; approved project or thesis proposal.Not available for graduate credit. Completion of a project or writing of a thesis resulting from the investigation of a significant topic or problem in creative drama or in theatre for young audiences. (Credit/No Credit only)
TH 498F. Senior Honors Project or Thesis (3): Prerequisites: Theatre Major in Theatre Honors Program; approved project or thesis proposal. Not available for graduate credit. Completion of an artistic project or writing of a thesis resulting from the investigation of a significant topic or problem in theatre. (Credit/No Credit only).

Advanced Undergraduate And Graduate

Note that 500-level courses may be selected to meet requirements or electives for the undergraduate degree, or to meet electives in the Master’s program.

TH 530. Theatre and Drama of Latin America (3): Prerequisites for Theatre Major or Minor: TH 322A-C. Other majors consult department advisor for equivalency.Study of the history and literature of the Latin American theatre from pre-Columbian times to the present. Critical writing assignments required.
TH 531. Theatre and Drama of Asia (3): Prerequisites for Theatre Major or Minor: TH 322A-C. Other majors consult department advisor for equivalency.Study of the history and literature of the Asian theatre from the beginnings to the present. Critical writing assignments required.
TH 535. Theatrical Theory and Criticism (3): Prerequisites for Theatre Major or Minor: TH 322A-C.Other majors consult department advisor for equivalency.Study of the history of theatrical theory and criticism from antiquity to the present. Major theories pertaining to all aspects of theatrical production, including staging, acting, scenography, and the script is examined. Critical writing assignments required.
TH 545. Advanced Directing (3): Prerequisite: TH 444. Advanced study of theories and styles of directing plays.Practical experience through production of scenes from different historical periods. Six hours per week.
TH 594. Internship in the Arts (3-3): Prerequisites: Senior or graduate-standing, portfolio review or audition, and instructor consent.Academic Internship course. May be repeated once. Maximum of 3 units may be earned for graduate credit. (Credit/No Credit only)
TH 599. Independent Study (1-3, 1-3): Prerequisites: Completion of all core requirements in Theatre Major; instructor consent to serve as sponsor; permission of the Department Chair. Enrollment restricted to theatre majors who have completed the full sequence of courses in the area of study to be pursued by Independent Study. Not open to classified graduate students. Maximum of six units may be earned.

Graduate

Note that 300-level courses do not carry graduate credit; 400-level courses may be selected to meet electives in the Master’s program, except where designated as “not available for graduate credit.”

TH 393. Directed Qualifying Studies: Theatre History and Literature (3): Prerequisites: Recommendation of department Director of Graduate Studies and instructor consent.Enrollment restricted to conditionally classified graduate students. Intensive review and coverage of the fundamentals of theatre history and literature covered in the undergraduate theatre core courses. (Credit/No Credit only)
TH 394. Directed Qualifying Studies: Acting (3): Prerequisites: Recommendation of department Director of Graduate Studies and instructor consent.Enrollment restricted to conditionally classified graduate students. Intensive review and coverage of the fundamentals of acting covered in the undergraduate theatre core courses. (Credit/No Credit only)
TH 395. Directed Qualifying Studies: Technical Theatre (3): Prerequisites: Recommendation of department Director of Graduate Studies and instructor consent.Enrollment restricted to conditionally classified graduate students. Intensive review and coverage of the fundamentals of technical theatre covered in the undergraduate theatre core courses. (Credit/No Credit only)
TH 600. Seminar in Research Methods and Bibliography in Theatre (3): Introduction to theatre research, involving bibliographical methods, the tools of research, and the organization and writing of the research study.
TH 620. Seminar in Theatre History (3): Prerequisites: TH 600; advanced course in Theatre History/Literature (TH 422 through 535 or equivalent).Investigation of selected problems in theatre history from antiquity through the present. Consideration of theatre architecture, audiences, staging and production, acting, and performance organization.
TH 621. Seminar in Theatrical Literature (3): Prerequisites: TH 600; advanced course in Theatre History/Literature (TH 422 through 535 or equivalent).Investigation of selected problems in theatrical literature from antiquity to the present. Consideration of the text, playwright, theatrical genres, and periods and movements.
TH 625. Seminar in Popular Theatre and Entertainment (3): Prerequisite: TH 600.Investigation of selected popular theatrical and para-theatrical forms of theatre and entertainment from antiquity through the present. Consideration of relationships between popular theatre and formal literary theatre.
TH 630. Seminar in Theatre Aesthetics (3): Prerequisites: TH 600; advanced course in directing or design (TH 545, or 457, or equivalents.Analysis of the aesthetic principles and techniques of the theatre; selected problems in the philosophy of dramatic art.
TH 640. Seminar in Acting and Directing (3): Prerequisites: TH 600; advanced course in acting or directing (TH 447 or 545 or equivalents).Selected theoretical problems and their application to acting and directing.
TH 670. Seminar in Child Drama (3): Prerequisites: TH 600 and 371, 475, or equivalent experience.Examination of child drama theories and practices, including creative drama and theatre for children.
TH 695A-Z. Theories in Drama and Theatre (3-3-3): Prerequisite: TH 600.Development of dramatic theory and practice; selected topics, including theories in American drama and theatre, European drama and theatre, and dramatic criticism. May be repeated twice.
TH 698. Thesis or Graduate Project (3): Prerequisites: Classified graduate status; approval of appropriate area faculty to form a thesis or graduate project committee; an approved thesis or graduate project committee; and, completion of all additional requirements for the degree.(Credit/No Credit only)
TH 699. Independent Study (1-3, 1-3): Prerequisites: Classified graduate status; consent of an instructor to serve as sponsor; review by the department Director of Graduate Studies.Maximum of six units may be earned.