OBERLIN Online
Title: Purchasing & Auxiliary Services
Catalog Home  Contact Us  Directories  OBERLIN Online
Theater and Dance

The Theater and Dance Program offers students an interrelated series of courses and performance activities designed to provide a sound liberal arts grounding in the theory and practice of the arts of theater and dance. The program is designed to foster a sense of community among faculty, staff, and students. Because the performing arts are collaborative by nature, students involved in the program are expected to participate in all aspects of production, both artistic and technical. The major objectives of the program are:

a. To provide a critical understanding and enhanced appreciation for theater and dance arts and their relationships to other areas of liberal arts learning.

b. To encourage interdisciplinary artistic collaboration and studies with such related disciplines as Film, English, Art, Creative Writing, and others.

c. To provide concentrated preparation in dance and theater for students wishing to pursue advanced studies or professional careers.

d. To provide practical experiences in all aspects of production, both on and back stage.

The introductory level courses are open to all students interested in broadening the scope of their education or who are majoring in a related field and wish to use theater or dance as a resource. Students wishing to pursue more intensive involvement in the arts are encouraged to enroll in intermediate and advanced-level courses in technique along with courses in production, history, and the aesthetics of theater and dance. Students also have the opportunity to work closely with a number of artists-in-residence each year. Choreographers, guest directors, playwrights, and specialists offer workshops lasting from a few days to one month.

Honors. In the second semester of the junior year qualified students may be admitted to the Honors Program in theater or dance. The Honors project may be either, 1) an advanced-level creative project in acting, directing, design, dance performance, or choreography, or 2) a research topic in theater or dance history, criticism, and theory resulting in a substantial written thesis. Advanced-level creative projects in acting, dance performance, choreography, directing, and design also include a significant written component. At the completion of the senior Honors Project, the student is examined orally by a panel consisting of the Honors student's faculty advisor and at least two other faculty members. Applications and further information concerning Honors work in either theater or dance are available in the Theater and Dance Program office, Warner Center.

Playwriting. Students interested in studying playwriting will find these courses listed under Creative Writing and English.

Major and Non-Major Off-Campus Study. Before credit is awarded for off-campus study, students must obtain tentative prior approval from a member of the Theater and Dance faculty and the Associate Dean of Studies. After the study is completed, the student must supply evidence of satisfactory participation. A maximum of 16 hours of off-campus study may be applied to the majors in Theater and Dance.

GLCA Arts Program in New York. This consists of a semester of work, ordinarily in the junior year, in the areas of technique, performance, production, and related studies. In the past, the GLCA Program has placed students with various theater companies, film and video studios, major dance studios, dance-presenting organizations, dance critics, and stage designers. Students who successfully complete the GLCA Program earn credits upon payment of the transfer of credit fee. All arrangements for transferring credit must be made with a member of the theater or dance faculty and approval for an academic leave of absence must be granted by the Associate Dean of Studies before a student begins the GLCA Program.

National Theater Institute at the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center. This one-semester program at the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center in Connecticut is designed to acquaint the serious student of the theater with the demands and expectations of the theater profession. The program combines the liberal arts philosophy of studies in a wide range of disciplines with exposure to professional production standards. Students participate in classes in acting, directing, design, movement/improvisation, and playwriting, as well as adjunct courses and special workshops led by guest artists. The remainder of each semester is devoted to workshops focusing on one or more specific theatrical exercises. The National Theater Institute also runs the NTI/Moscow Art Theater Program (MXAT)–an intensive one-semester training program in Moscow at the Moscow Art Theater School. Oberlin students wishing to attend the National Theater Institute must first be nominated by the Theater faculty. Final admission decisions are made by the National Theater Institute staff.

Trinity/LaMaMa Performing Arts Program in New York. An intensive, one-semester Oberlin College Affiliated Program emphasizing interdisciplinary work in theater and dance that includes internships, seminars, studio classes and attendance at 45+ performances and events. Full semester's credits through Trinity College, Hartford, CT.

Spring Semester at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts. An affiliated program designed to offer Oberlin students a concentrated semester of study in film production, film studies or musical theater. The program is offered in the spring semester only. Interested students should contact the Office of the Dean of Studies for application forms and detailed information about the program.

The Laban Centre in London, England. A year long affiliated program, administered through Butler University, offering a unique combination of study abroad in a vibrant artistic community along with rigorous dance training in technique, theory, and technical production. Students interested in this performance based intensive should contact Elesa Rosasco, Associate Professor of Dance, for additional information.

Winter Term. Winter Term provides an opportunity for students to engage in projects sponsored by the faculty in dance, film, acting, directing, design, and dance or theater research. Normally, several on-campus Winter Term theater productions are in rehearsal during the month. Guest artists are brought in from time to time to work with students in areas such as dance, fencing, voice, and acting. In addition, students use the time to become active in various alumni and off-campus theater, dance, film, and video internships.

The following faculty are willing to sponsor Winter Term projects as indicated. Mr. Copeland: history and criticism in dance and theater; playwriting; performance. Mr. Flaharty: costume design; makeup; design research. Ms. Groseth: lighting and sound design; sound recording. Mr. Grube: scene design; painting; graphics. Ms. Jackson Smith: acting; directing; writing/dramatic literature other performance projects. Ms. Jobe: stage management. Ms. Martynuk: dance; choreography; performance. Mr. McAdams: dance with video and/or computers; kinesiology; massage. Mr. Moser: acting; directing. Mr. Mroczek: set design. Ms. Rosasco: dance; choreography; performance. Mr. Wright: acting and directing.


In this Department

General Information

Theater Information

Advanced Theater Courses

Advanced Dance Courses

Interdisciplinary Performance Major

Theater
The Theater curriculum offers courses each year in acting, directing, history, criticism, design, and production. In addition to class meetings, many courses have a laboratory component that involves students in the process of creating a theater production. Each year, the program produces two or three mainstage productions, and co-sponsors a black theater production directed by a faculty member appointed jointly in Theater and Dance and the African American Studies Department. Workshop productions and student directing projects are also regularly scheduled. These smaller scale productions are intended to provide a bridge between the classroom experience and the fully-mounted campus productions.

The program also sponsors theater residencies from time to time. These residencies supplement the curriculum by giving students the opportunity to participate in workshops. In the past, these workshops have included work with specialists in stage combat, voice and movement, stage makeup, and film and video acting.

In addition to productions that are sponsored by the Theater and Dance Program, students have the opportunity to participate in productions sponsored by other departments and by campus student theater organizations.

Theater Major. The Theater Major is designed to allow students the flexibility to either design a general theater major, or pursue a particular emphasis within the Theater curriculum, such as acting, directing, history/criticism, or production/ design. The student planning to major in theater must first secure a faculty advisor, preferably at the end of the sophomore year. This should be an instructor in the student's particular area of interest with whom the student has already successfully completed intermediate level course work. The student then works closely with the advisor to design an individualized plan of study. Once approved, the instructor agrees to serve as the student's major academic advisor. Major forms are available from the Program office.

Listed below are the core requirements for a theater major:

Theater Major (34-35 total hours):

A. Core Requirements (25-26 hours):  
History of the Western Theater (252, 253) 6 hours
Acting (100) 3 hours
Production and Design 7-8 hours
 
B. Two theater production labs (199) 0 hours
C. Additional intermediate and advanced course electives in Theater 9 hours**
D. Course electives in dramatic literature 9 hours*

Theater Minor (14-15 hours):
A. History of the Western Theater (252, 253) 6 hours
B. One Production and Design elective 2-3 hours**
C. Six semester hours at the intermediate or advanced level in the student's area of interest 6 hours **

* The Theater faculty offers few drama lit classes. Most drama literature courses are offered by English, Classics, and various language departments. These vary annually. Students should check with their advisor to see if a course counts towards this requirement. A student may count a three-hour playwrighting course (not independent study) toward this requirement, but no Private Readings.
** Declaring a Theater major or minor does not guarantee consent of instructor for upper-level classes outside of a studen's emphasis.

Introductory Courses

In this Department

General Information

Intro. Theater Courses

Advanced Theater Courses

Advanced Dance Courses

Interdisciplinary Performance Major

100. Acting 1: Fundamentals
3 hours 3HU
First Semester.
The focus of this class is on developing specific techniques basic to American acting traditions (conversational reality; executing activities; playing intentions) and applying these skills in contemporary scene work. Intended for first- and second-year students. Auditions (prepare one- to two-minute contemporary monologue) will be scheduled during orientation week for fall semester sections and during the week preceding registration for spring semester. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 16.
Mr. Moser

103. Public Speaking
3 hours 3HU
First Semester.

The purpose of this course is to help students from all disciplines develop the life skill of making engaging and effective public speaking presentations. Students will be taken through a thorough process leading toward actual presentations, including assembling, organizing of materials and rehearsal. Particular attention will be given to learning individualized stress management techniques and communicating vocally with vitality. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 12.
Staff

105. Exploring Acting
3 hours 3HU
Second Semester.

Comparable in content to THEA 100, the focus of this class is on developing specific techniques basic to American acting traditions (conversational reality; executing activities; playing intentions) and applying these skills in contemporary scene work. Note: This course is intended for third- and fourth-year students only. No audition. Enrollment Limit: 16.
Staff

122. Introduction to Technical Theater
3 hours 3HU
First Semester.
This course is an introduction to the technical aspects of the theater, including organization and the theater "as a machine". Basic skills and vocabulary of the theatrical stage and its daily operations; sound, lights, scenery, costumes, technical production will be covered. Students will have an opportunity to both read about and experience each particular aspect of theatrical production. This course is designed for students with little background in technical theater, and it will serve as an introduction to more advanced courses in production and design. If students already have extensive experience in technical theater, they are encouraged to test out of this class and move on to the more specialized offerings in the department. Enrollment Limit: 25.
Ms. Groseth, Mr. Grube

173. Production: Costumes
3 hours 3HU
Second Semester.

An overview of the costuming process from the development of the costume design through the construction of the costume. Also includes seminars in costume crafts, shop management and fabrication. A three-hour weekly lab focuses on theatrical costume techniques and approaches. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 8.
Ms. Cuthbertson

199. Theater Production Lab
0 hour 0HU
First and Second Semester.

Each enrolled student will serve on one technical/administrative crew for one of the theater, dance or opera productions during the semester: scenery, lighting, sound, costumes or publicity. Mandatory one-time class meeting on the second Friday of the semester; 4:30-6:00 p.m. in Hall Annex 214.
Ms. Jobe, Ms. Groseth

Intermediate Courses

In this Department

General Information

Intermediate Theater Courses

Advanced Theater Courses

Advanced Dance Courses

Interdisciplinary Performance Major

200, 201. Acting 2: Scene Study
3 hours 3HU

First and Second Semester.
A year long sequence of intermediate level scene study work. The class will focus on observation, personalization, activation, and listening. First semester will utilize plays by contemporary playwrights. Second semester will utilize classical American plays by such authors as Odetts, Miller, Hansberry, Wilson and Williams. Notes: Auditions in late spring. A few slots will be held for fall auditions and transfers. Prerequisite: THEA 100. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 12.
Mr. Wright

208. Directing 1: Rehearsal Skills
3 hours 3HU
Second Semester.

Students will be introduced to fundamental techniques used by directors to coach and stage naturalistic scene work, with a focus on stage composition and facilitating the actors' rehearsal process. Prerequisite: THEA 200. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 12.
Staff

210. Movement for Actors
3 hours
3HU
Second Semester.

This studio course explores movement through both a structured and an improvisational approach. We will emphasize developing an expressive and malleable physicality. The basis for individual movement exploration is in Laban Effort/Shape work. Group improvisations will focus on responsive/openness; the ability to respond to quickly changing circumstances while remaining open to the choices of others. Awareness, presence, alignment and strength will also be addressed through the consistent practice of certain movement patterns. There will be out of class assignments in addition to the studio work. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 15.
Staff

212. Stage Management
3 hours 3HU
First Semester, First Module. Second Semester, Second Module.

This course is an introduction to the practice of stage management for theater, dance, musical theater, and opera. Topics covered include organization, communication, interpersonal relations, the production process, rehearsal and performance procedures, and documentation. The course will culminate in a finished prompt book for a play. Consent of the instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 14.
Ms. Jobe

213. Stage Management Practicum
2-4 hours 2-4HU
First and Second Semester.

For student stage managers currently working on productions sponsored by the Theater and Dance Program. May be taken concurrently with THEA 212. Consent of instructor required.
Ms. Jobe

217. Exploration of Puppetry through Characterization and Construction
3 hours 3HU
Second Semester.
This class explores a wide range of puppetry traditions and styles through historical analysis, and studio/performance work. Note: CR/NE or P/NP grading. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 15.
Mr. Koschnick

222. Introduction to Design
3 hours 3HU
First Semester.

An introduction to designing for the performing arts. Lectures and readings cover elements of theater design, i.e., scenery, costumes, and lighting, used to express creative ideas. Projects provide a chance to experiment with the building blocks of design. Text analysis and concept also are covered from a visual perspective. A preliminary course to further studies in scene, costume, or lighting design. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 12.
Mr. Flaharty, Mr. Mroczek

225. Individual or Group Projects
1-4 hours 1-4HU
First and Second Semester.

Intended for intermediate or advanced-level work by individuals and small groups not easily covered in the private reading option. Projects must be approved by the sponsoring faculty member before registration. Demands high student initiative and sustained individual work. Projects sponsored by Ms. Jobe, Mr. Copeland, Mr. Flaharty, Ms. Groseth, Mr. Grube, Ms. Jackson Smith, and Mr. Moser. Consent of chair required.

229. Autobiography and Performance
4 hours 4HU, CD, WR
Second Semester.

Identical to DANC 230 and GAWS 230. For description, please see "Dance" in this catalog. Enrollment Limit: 15.
Ms. Cooper Albright

236. Scene Design and Historical Research
3 hours 3HU
Second Semester.

This course will use historical theater architecture and scene design as an impetus to the design process by using historically accurate elements to inspire plans and elevations for class design projects. Presentation of individual and group design projects will be by plan, elevation, rendering and model. Basic scenographic techniques will be covered, as well as design processes involving the collaborative nature of the medium. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 12.
Mr. Mroczek

252, 253. History of the Western Theater
3 hours 3HU
First and Second Semester.

A year-long lecture course tracing the evolution of the Western theater from Dionysian ritual in ancient Greece through contemporary performance practice in Europe and America. Theater architecture, works of dramatic literature, and theoretical treatises on performance are studied in relation to the social and intellectual history of each major era. Three historical periods receive special attention: the fifth century BC in Greece, the 17th century in England and France, and the 20th century in Europe and America. Prerequisites: THEA 252 and consent of instructor are prerequisites for THEA 253. Enrollment Limit: 35.
Mr. Copeland

257. Introduction to Sound and Sound Design
3 hours 3HU
Next offered 2005-2006.

260. Lighting Design
3 hours 3HU
Second Semester.

This class studies the theories and techniques of lighting design for the performing arts. Lectures cover the design process, which includes space, script, music and movement, script analysis, design collaboration, and design execution. Lectures on composition, color, and drafting are supplemented with lighting design projects undertaken by members of the class. Final project is a realized design in the Little Theater. Students are required to meet for technical rehearsals in the evenings at the end of the semester to finish this course. Prerequisites: THEA 174. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 12.
Ms. Groseth

262. Play Analysis
3 hours 3HU
Second Semester.

This class will focus on the analysis of playscripts, with the aim of developing practical skills in examining both form and content. A wide range of plays from different genres will be examined for their major themes, significant elements and unifying principles with the intent of discovering how each play ‘works'. Students will be expected to read one play a week and to write a weekly assignment prior to each seminar session. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 12.
Staff

264. African American Drama
3 hours 3HU, CD
Second Semester.

This class surveys plays written by black Americans with an emphasis on works of the late 20th century. An overview of the history of African American performance is followed by reading and discussion of current criticism and a wide selection of plays by writers such as James Baldwin, Lorraine Hansberry, Amiri Baraka (LeRoi Jones), Adrienne Kennedy, Langston Hughes, Ntozake Shange, August Wilson, and George Wolfe. Requirements include papers, mid-term and scene work. Notes: This course may be used to fulfill the dramatic literature requirement for theater majors. Identical to AAST 264. Enrollment Limit: 20.
Ms. Jackson Smith

268. Black Arts Workshop
3 hours 3HU, CD
Next offered 2005-2006.

269. Voice and Speech for the Actor
2 hours 2HU
First Semester.

This course introduces basic principles of voice production for actors: breathing, relaxation, coordination, resonance and centering. Exercises are designed to integrate mind/breath/sound/body in the act of purposeful communication: daily progression from pure sound to text work. Emphasis on freeing the students' natural range and expressiveness. Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of general American speech through the study of the International Phonetic Alphabet, addressing individual speech challenges. Consent by audition and instructor. Enrollment Limit: 16.
Mr. Wright

272. Technical Production: Scenery
3 hours 3HU
Second Semester.

Intermediate work in the techniques and principles used in technical production for theater, dance, and opera. Lecture materials include: production management, stage rigging, orthographic projection, elements of the physical plant as well as construction methods used in building scenic units. Students participate in fabricating scenery for the semester's productions during Friday lab hours. Enrollment Limit: 14. Prerequisite: THEA 122.
Mr. Grube

281. Rehearsal and Performance
1-3 hours 1-3HU
First and Second Semester.

Intermediate and advanced level work in preparation and public performances of a production directed by a member of the theater faculty. Notes: May be repeated once only for credit. CR/NE or P/NP grading. Consent of instructor required.
Staff

Advanced Courses

In this Department

General Information

Advanced Theater Courses

Advanced Dance Courses

Interdisciplinary Performance Major

300, 301. Acting 3: Shakespeare and Poetic Realism
3 hours 3HU
First and Second Semester.

A year-long intensive course to be taken concurrently with THEA 210, 269 (Movement and Voice for the Actor). First semester will introduce skills needed to perform Shakespeare: imaging, phrasing, scansion, and rhetorical analysis. Second Semester will focus on skills needed to perform Poetic Realism, such as Chekhov and Ibsen. The sequence is designed for advanced students planning to apply to graduate school in Acting. Prerequisite: THEA 200, 201. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 12.
Mr. Moser, Mr. Wright

302. Happenings, Non-Literary Theater, and Performance Art
3 hours 3HU
Second Semester.

Utilizing videotape excerpts from legendary productions, this course traces the evolution of "non-literary" theater in America from the 1960s to the 1990s. It begins by examining the "Theater of the Body" in the work of The Living Theatre and The Open Theatre; moves to more "painterly" theater pieces by Robert Wilson, and concludes with recent works of Mabou Mimes and The Wooster Group in which actor/audience participation is replaced by technological "mediation." Enrollment Limit: 20.
Mr. Copeland

305. Seminar in Theater Criticism
3 hours 3HU
Next offered 2005-2006.

307. Directing 2: Seminar–-Texts and Concepts
4 hours 4HU
Second Semester.

During first module, seminar readings will focus on a director's conceptualization process. Students will be introduced to different modes of textual analysis and how these lead to key artistic choices. During the second module, classes will monitor the progress of student-directed one act plays to be performed in the Little Theater. Prerequisite: THEA 208. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 6.
Staff

320. Special Projects: Design, Production, Stage or Arts Management
1-4 hours 1-4HU
First and Second Semester.

Consent of instructor required.

324. The Concept of the Avant-Garde
3 hours 3HU
First Semester.

A seminar examining the cultural and political forces of the late 19th and early 20th century which helped create an "adversary" relationship between "avant-garde" artists and middle-class society. The course focuses on those modernist movements that affected painting, literature, and theater. Major issues explored include the relationship of the avant-garde to radical politics as well as to popular culture and the mass communications media, the "fate" of the avant-garde in the age of post-modernism, and the current controversies surrounding NEA funding for the work of artists such as Robert Mapplethorpe. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 20.
Mr. Copeland

328. Musical Theater Seminar
3 hours 3HU
Next offered 2005-2006.

341. Directing 3: Directing Project
1-3 hours 1-3HU
First and Second Semester.

Individual study in directing. Student directors will meet weekly with a faculty advisor to discuss and monitor their projects through the various stages of production: script analysis, concept, design, casting, rehearsals, tech, and performance. Students must first gain T&D Program approval for a their project, at which time a faculty advisor will be assigned. (Applications available in the program office, are due April 15th.) Prerequisites: THEA 208 and stage management of a faculty-directed production. Consent of instructor required.
Staff

362. Art on Trial
3 hours
3HU
Next offered 2005-2006.

420. Honors Project
3-6 hours 3-6HU
First and Second Semester.

Intensive independent work in theater on a research thesis or creative project to be decided upon in consultation with an advisor. Prerequisite: Admission to the Honors Program. Projects sponsored by Mr. Copeland, Ms. Jackson Smith, and Mr. Moser. Consent of instructor required.

995. Private Reading
1-3 hours 1-3HU
Projects sponsored by Mr. Copeland, Mr. Flaharty, Ms. Groseth, Mr. Grube, Ms. Jackson Smith, Mr. Moser, and Mr. Wright. Consent of instructor required.


In this Department

General Information

Advanced Theater Courses

Dance Information

Advanced Dance Courses

Interdisciplinary Performance Major

Dance
The Oberlin Dance Program functions within the liberal arts tradition. Though many of the students go on to be successful dancers and choreographers, the emphasis in the department is on encouraging students to create, perform, and think about movement in a manner that is consonant with their experience in the other fine and liberal arts.
Dance at Oberlin is also characterized by its commitment to experimentation and to the creation of original work. Each year at Oberlin, there are many dance performances involving students, faculty, and visiting artists. Both student and faculty choreography is shown throughout the year in formal concerts, and in a regular series of studio events. Students who wish to involve themselves in collaborations with dancers (as composers, sculptors, etc.) may enroll in a dance production project or participate in studio concerts. (In this regard, the Art Department and the Conservatory of Music as well as the Theater and Dance Program serve as valuable resources for dancers.) The program encourages an intelligent and sensitive approach to dance, in both participants and viewers.

Dance Major. Students planning to major in dance must secure the approval for a program of study from a member of the faculty in the dance division. The faculty member thereby agrees to act as the student's academic advisor. The major in dance requires 29-33 credit hours in courses within the Theater and Dance Program. It is recommended that students complete the core requirements and select their areas of concentration, in coordination with their advisors, early in the major. The requirements for the dance major follow. The 29-33 total credit hours for the dance major reflect 18-20 hours in core courses, and 11-13 hours in a chosen area of concentration.

Dance Major (29-33 hours):

Core Courses (18-20 hours):
    
A. One semester of Modern Dance technique, any level
One semester of West African Dance forms, any level
Two semesters of Dance History
Choreography I
Improvisation I or Contact Improvisation
One course in the area of design and production
One Production Lab (THEA 199)
2 hours
2-3 hours
6 hours
4 hours
2-3 hours
2-3 hours
0 hour

Courses in areas of concentration (11-13 hours):

  In consultation with their major advisor, students should define a focused area of study in performance, choreography, theory, interdisciplinary, or collaborative work.  



Dance Minor (15-16 hours):


Core Courses (9-10 hours):
    
A. One semester of Modern Dance technique, any level
One semester of Dance History
Improvisation I or Contact Improvisation
West African Dance Forms 1, any level
 


Elective Courses (six hours):

B. The remaining six credits must be selected from dance courses within the Theater and Dance curriculum. One course must be at a non-introductory level.
All Dance majors and minors are required to register for their required courses during the first registration period of a given semester. Only courses requiring a placement class or audition are exempt from this rule.
 



In this Department

General Information

Advanced Theater Courses

Intro. Dance Course

Advanced Dance Courses

Interdisciplinary Performance Major

Introductory Courses

100. Modern Dance I: Beginning
2 hours 2HU
First and Second Semester.

Introduction to basic physical/intellectual principles of modern dance technique with an emphasis on the development of the body as an instrument of expression. Students on the wait list must attend the first class meeting in order to be considered for any openings. Note: May be repeated for credit. Enrollment Limit: 25.
Mr. McAdams, Ms. Vogel, Staff

113. Ballet I
2 hours 2HU
Second Semester.

Introduction to classical ballet with an emphasis on alignment, injury prevention, and expression. Attendance at three to five performances is required. Notes: May be repeated for credit. Pre-registration is limited to 20. (Additional spaces are reserved for first- and second-year students.) A student on a wait list must attend the first class meeting in order to be considered for any openings. Enrollment Limit: 30.
Ms. Rosasco

118. Ritual and Performance I: The World According to the Yoruba
3 hours 3SS, CD
Next offered 2005-2006.

132. Contact Improvisation
3 hours 3HU
First Semester.

The points of contact–visual, physical, rhythmic, emotional–set up the physical meeting ground for dancing. In this class we will acquire the physical skills (such as rolling, learning when and when not to give weight, how to receive weight, and how to fall softly) in order to facilitate a conscious, engaged dancing with one other. Note: May be repeated for credit. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 25.
Ms. Cooper Albright

150. Dance History: Cross-Cultural Approaches to Dance
3 hours 3HU, CD, WR
Next offered 2005-2006.

190. West African Dance Forms in the Diaspora I
3 hours 3HU, CD
First Semester.

This course will survey dance movement forms and techniques from West Africa to the New World through dance performance. A survey of dance performance using academic discourse as well as a movement vocabulary will be used. The influence of West African movements on the New World will include forms from Brazil, Cuba, and Haiti. This class will be taught from a traditional West African perspective and Pan-African world view. Enrollment Limit: 25. Identical to AAST 190.
Ms. Sharpley

191. West African Dance Forms in the Diaspora II
3 hours 3HU, CD
Second Semester.

This course will expand the dance movements, forms, and techniques from the 190 class. Extensive dance performance within a particular area (Brazil, Cuba and Haiti) will be examined. The dances will be explored in their total experience in context with costumes and music. Prerequisite: DANC/AAST 190 or previous dance experience. Enrollment Limit: 25. Identical to AAST 191.
Ms. Sharpley

192. West African Dance Forms in the Diaspora III
3 hours 3HU, CD
Next offered 2005-2006.

196. African American Dance History
3 hours 3HU, CD
Second Semester.

This course will trace African American dance and dancers from minstrelsy to the 1960s. The course will highlight the importance of the African form and how this form has impacted types of dances done by African Americans. The course will also explore ways in which African Americans both connect and separate sacred and secular dance forms and the codes that distinguish the two. Enrollment Limit: 30. Identical to AAST 196.
Ms. Sharpley


In this Department

General Information

Advanced Theater Courses

Intermediate Dance Courses

Advanced Dance Courses

Interdisciplinary Performance Major

Intermediate Courses

200. Modern Dance II: Low Intermediate
2 hours 2HU
First Semester.

A continuation of dance technique for those who have successfully completed DANC 100 or the equivalent. Note: May be repeated for credit. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 20.
Ms. Rosasco

201. Modern Dance II: High Intermediate
2 hours 2HU
Second Semester.

A continuation of dance technique for those who have successfully completed DANC 200 or the equivalent. Note: May be repeated for credit. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 20.
Ms. Rosasco

203. Physical Mindfulness: Embodying Contemplative Practice
3 hours 3HU, WR
Second Semester.

This course will progress from a study of the physical and spiritual implications of individual mindful practices (such as yoga and Body-Mind Centering), to practices that include a partner and witness, to the creation of collective rituals that address a community's specific needs. Through a variety of readings and discussions we will ask how contemplative practices might include other bodies and social experiences. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 15.
Ms. Cooper Albright

207. Improvisation I
2 hours 2HU
First and Second Semester.

Improvisation is the process of making choices within a given structure while moving and discovering the collective "choice" as it evolves. The class will go from highly defined structures to more open improvisations over the course of the semester. Solo and group structures will be used. Elements such as time, space, motion, shape, weight, focus, and range will be emphasized as key choices in this exploration. Prerequisite: DANC 100 or DANC 200. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 15.
Ms. Rosasco

211. Production Project
1-2 hours 1-2HU
First and Second Semester.

Individual or collaborative work based in performance. Open to dancers, musicians, poets, designers, etc. Students must observe the rules posted in Warner Center. Note: May be repeated for a total of six credits. Consent of instructor required.
Ms. Rosasco, Mr. McAdams, Ms. Cooper Albright, Ms. Martynuk

212. Ballet II
2 hours 2HU
First Semester.

In this continuation of ballet technique, an intermediate vocabulary is explored with particular attention given to phrasing. Attendance at three to five dance performances is required. Note: May be repeated for credit. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 25.
Ms. Rosasco

214. Teaching Dance: A Chance for Transformation
3 hours 3HU
Next offered 2005-2006.

221. Body Re-education and Alignment
3 hours 3HU
First Semester.

This course focuses on the relationship of mind and body in affecting physical change to re-educate and align the body. A body-based language describing and analyzing movement, anatomy, and imagery is used in the movement sessions. Readings are assigned. Prerequisite: DANC 100 or DANC 113. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 15.
Ms. Vogel

222. Choreography I
4 hours 4HU
First Semester.

This class focuses on methods of generating material and shaping movement phrases toward the creation of solos and small group dances. Weekly studies are assigned, exploring the use of space, gesture, dynamics, rhythm, shape, and texture. Methods of composition include use of improvisation as well as an introduction to the basic forms of theme and variation, canon, and repetition. Readings, discussions, and performances are required. Prerequisites: DANC 100 and one semester of DANC 250, DANC 273 or DANC 350. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 10.
Ms. Martynuk

230. Autobiography and Performance
4 hours 4HU, CD, WR
Second Semester.

Autobiography and Performance is a course which integrates performance practices with intellectual theories in order to investigate the various ways individuals choose to construct a representation of their self/selves. We will consider how one's history, gender, race or ethnic identification, sexuality and ability shape the creation of an autobiographical performance. How does the presence of the performer's body affect our reception of the autobiographical voice? Identical to THEA 229 and GAWS 230. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 15.
Ms. Cooper Albright

250. Dance History: Dance in the 20th Century
3 hours 3HU, CD, WR
First Semester.

This course investigates the role of dance in 20th century America. We will explore the way a variety of social and theatrical dances, both shaped and were shaped by discourses of feminism, nationalism, African American cultural identity, and modernism. Enrollment Limit: 25.
Ms. Cooper Albright

270. Queer Acts
3 hours 3HU, CD, WR
Next offered 2005-2006.

273. Western Dance History and Aesthetics
3 hours 3HU
Next offered 2005-2006.


In this Department

General Information

Advanced Theater Courses

Advanced Dance Courses

Interdisciplinary Performance Major

Advanced Courses

300. Modern Dance III- Advanced
2 hours 2HU
First and Second Semester.

A continuation of dance technique for those who have successfully completed DANC 201 or the equivalent. Note: May be repeated for credit. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 15.
Ms. Martynuk, Mr. McAdams

303. Oberlin Dance Company
1-4 hours 1-4HU
Second Semester.

Students will learn a faculty-choreographed dance for performance in Hall Auditorium. The course will emphasize rehearsal and performance techniques such as learning and retaining movement quickly and taking responsibility for expressively developing one's own role. Placement by audition the first day of classes. Note: May be repeated for credit. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 12.
Mr. McAdams

311. Practicum in Dance
1-2 hours 1-2HU
First and Second Semester.

Individual projects that are not performance-based, such as teaching or community service work. Note: May be repeated for credit. Consent of instructor required.
Staff

332. Varsity Contact
3 hours 3HU, WR
Second Semester.

This course will build on the foundational skills acquired in DANC 132. We will both deepen and expand our work in performance, creative and critical writing, and working with various communities. Students interested in this course must be able to attend Sunday jams and various weekend events. Prerequisite: Contact Improvisation (DANC 132). Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 15.
Ms. Cooper Albright

350. Dance History: Contemporary Dance
3 hours 3HU, CD, WR
Next offered 2005-2006.

390. Essence Dance Class
1-2 hours 1-2HU, CD
Second Semester.

This course is designed to promote and develop creativity in dance performance through the Black experience. A variety of dance forms will be used such as: modern, Afro-forms, and black urban vernacular dances. Students are expected to purchase costumes. Prerequisites: AAST 101, DANC/AAST 190, or DANC/AAST 191 preferred. Notes: This class may be repeated for a maximum of four accumulated hours. CR/NE or P/NP grading. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 15. Identical to AAST 390.
Ms. Sharpley

391. Dance Diaspora
2 hours 2HU, CD
First Semester.

Faculty directed performance project. Auditions are held during each semester before enrollment. Note: This class may be repeated for a maximum of four accumulated hours. African American Studies majors and dance majors will have first priority. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 15. Identical to AAST 391.
Ms. Sharpley

394. Collaborations: Dance, Art and Music
3 hours 3HU
First Semester.

We will investigate the history of choreographers' and director's collaborations with artists and composers; the lectures and studio projects will be in conjunction with a parallel course offered in TIMARA. Students will form collaborative teams among the disciplines for their projects. Prerequisite: DANC 222 or DANC 207. Consent of the instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 10.
Ms. Martynuk

395. Special Topics in Choreography
3 hours 3HU
Next offered 2005-2006.


Independent Projects

First and Second Semester.
Final projects for Dance majors in their different areas of concentration. All projects require consent of instructor.

402. Independent Theory Project
2 hours 2HU
Consent of instructor required.

403. Independent Performance Project
2 hours 2HU
Consent of instructor required.

404. Independent Choreography Project
2 hours 2HU
Consent of instructor required.

420. Honors Project
3-6 hours 3-6HU
Intensive independent work in dance on a research thesis or creative project to be decided upon in consultation with an advisor. Prerequisite: Admission to the Honors Program. Projects sponsored by Ms. Cooper Albright, Ms. Martynuk, Mr. McAdams, and Ms. Rosasco. Consent of instructor required.

995. Private Reading
1-3 hours 1-3HU
Projects sponsored by Ms. Cooper Albright, Ms. Martynuk, Mr. McAdams, and Ms. Rosasco. Consent of instructor required.


In this Department

General Information

Advanced Theater Courses

Advanced Dance Courses

Interdisciplinary Performance Major

Interdisciplinary Performance Major
Many traditional performance genres as well as a growing body of contemporary work in performance art and physical theater elude easy categorization as either Theater or Dance. Thus, the Theater and Dance program offers a third major which incorporates a more integrated approach to the study of performance. The Interdisciplinary Performance Major is designed for the highly focused student who wishes to pursue an intensive, individually designed course of study, which combines offerings from both the Theater and Dance curricula.

The student planning an IPM must secure two members of the Theater and Dance faculty, one in Theater and one in Dance, to serve as academic advisors. IPM majors must meet regularly with both advisors (simultaneously) to help design their IPM course of study and monitor progress towards its successful completion. An IPM plan of study must include both Theater and Dance electives (B), and should articulate a coherent course of study leading to a senior project (C).

IPM majors are especially encouraged to take courses that have been specifically designated as "Interdisciplinary Performance Courses". IPM majors should also consider related courses offered by other departments that will enhance the interdisciplinary breadth of their course of study.

Individual Performance Major (35-37 hours):

A. Core Courses (22 hours):

  Performance History
Two semesters of Theater History
Two semesters of Dance History 6 hours


6 hours
6 hours

     
  Studio/Technique:
One semester of Acting Technique
One semester of Ballet, African or Modern Dance Technique
One semester of Improvisation or Contact Improvisation


3 hours
2 hours
2 hours

     
  Production/Design:
One Production or Design Course
One Production Lab (THEA 199)

3 hours
hours

B. Four Intermediate or Advanced electives (selected from both Theater
and Dance with at least three hours at 300 level) 12 hours
* **

C. Senior Project in Scholarship and/ or Performance 1-3 hours***

*May include a maximum of three hours of private readings, or Rehearsal and Performance credit.
**Declaring an IPM major does not guarantee consent of instructor for individual upper-level classes.
***IPM majors must submit a proposal for their senior project by the end of junior year. No more than 12 transfer credits can be counted toward the major.

Performance History Courses:
DANC 150 Cross-Cultural Approaches to Dance
DANC 196 African American Dance History
DANC 250 Dance History: Dance in the 20th Century
THEA 252, 253 History of Western Theater
THEA 254 Intro to Asian Theater/Dance Performance
DANC 273 Western Dance History and Aesthetics
DANC 350 Dance History: Contemporary Global Forms

Recommended Courses with an Interdisciplinary Performance Focus:
THEA 217 -Exploration of Puppetry through Characterization and Construction
THEA 222 Intro to Design
THEA 224 The Concept of the Avant-Garde
THEA 229/DANC 230 Autobiography and Performance
THEA 268 Black Arts Workshop
DANC 270 Queer Acts
THEA 302 Happenings, Non-Literary Theater and Performance Art
DANC 394 Collaborations: Dance, Art and Music
DANC 395 Special Topics in Choreography

    
   
copyright line comments Directories search ochome