Introduction to Theatre: Theatre I
Mr. Gealy
Course Description:
This is a semester-long course with a broad focus. It is designed to introduce students from various theatrical backgrounds to the many facets of theatre. The course explores the role of an actor in interpreting dramatic literature, performance theory and techniques, theatre history, and provides an overview of basic terms and concepts associated with acting and production. Students will also be urged to attend theatrical events and read plays in an effort to broaden their artistic experience and awareness.
Class Setup:
Daily activities will vary depending on the unit of study. You will read plays, learn acting concepts and skills, work on duet-scenes and monologues, and engage in reading and writing activities, as well as small and large group discussions. You will also engage in various activities such as improvisation, stage movement, and scene rehearsal. If for some reason you signed up for this course because you thought it wouldn’t require any work, you should drop it. In many ways this class will be difficult, challenging, and will require a thoughtful commitment and a willingness to extend yourself.
Coursework:
Much of the work will be done in class, although you will be expected to work outside the period to complete assignments and learn lines. You will be required to memorize lines and perform for your peers, as well as to read and report on at least one short play and one classic or contemporary play, You will be graded on your effort, participation, and the quality of your work. This is a class designed to be both fun and informative, but it risks being neither without a high-level of professional courtesy. You will have significant time in class to complete assignments, but you must respect that and not waste it. If you are willing to stay on task and give it your best effort, I can assure you a fun and productive semester.
Grading Scale:
90-100 A
85-89 B+
80-84 B
75-79 C+
70-74 C
65-69 D+
60-64 D
59 or below F
Note:
All students, before they can continue in this class, must read and agree to abide by the accompanying rules. This is the first full year for our all new East High Performing Arts space, so it is absolutely imperative that you respect the space and follow every rule. If you don’t think you can do this, we will make arrangements for you to spend your time elsewhere.
Theatre Rules
Read, sign, and turn into me no later than tomorrow for your first (and easiest) grade of the semester.
Theatre spaces are defined as, but not limited to the following: black box, dressing rooms, auditorium, scene shop or in the catwalks.
-No food or drink in the theatre spaces or anywhere while in costume and/or makeup (the exception is bottled water in a container with a spill-proof lid).
-While a performance is underway, you will respect the performers at all times by giving them your full attention. Never enter or leave the classroom during a performance.
-Make sure we leave the space better or at least as good as we found it (this means pick up any trash, put away chairs or props).
-No working in tech areas, including shop and catwalks, unless supervised.
-While we want theatre to be fun keep in mind that when you are in the space you are there to work, not hang out. If you are hindering the work going on in the space then you will be asked to leave.
-No climbing over or putting your feet on chairs.
-After any work in the shop, everything needs to be cleaned up and put away before anyone is allowed to leave class.
-Don't bring anything into the theatre that doesn't have to do with school. So in short, homework is ok, but don't bring in things to screw around with, radios, skateboards, toys, video games, cell phones, etc. If we see them, we will take them.
-All Costumes need to be properly stored after use. You are responsible for your own costume. Put it back how it was before you got it out. If you fail to do this, we will confiscate any costume pieces left out improperly You will then have to ask to get them back.
-Come in with a positive attitude. Leave your personal baggage at the door.
If you can manage to follow these simple rules, we won’t have any problems. Thanks and break a leg!
Print Name: ______
Signature: ______
Date: ______