Course Objectives:

To develop artistic perception, creative expression, and aesthetic valuing; to develop the ability to connect and apply what is learned in drama to other art forms, subjects, and careers. In this course, students will learn theatre terminology for the stage, acting, directing, and technical aspects of production. Much of the course content will be studied through active, hands-on projects. Students will learn to do acting warm-ups, improvisations, monologues, and two-, three, and four-person scenes. Performances and some selected in-class work may be video-recorded for analysis and evaluation. Students will read and analyze scenes and plays. They will write brief scenes based on short stories, parts of novels, and/or their own inspiration. Finally, students will research artists in the theatre and attend and review at least one live performance and one movie per semester. Students will also participate in the fall and spring Drama class productions.

Some of the Benefits of Drama:

By participating in Drama you will increase your awareness of your surroundings; increase your awareness of yourself in group exercises; improve your listening skills and awareness of others; enhance your physical movement and expression; sharpen your diction and vocal projection skills. You will also experience these other outcomes:

Communication – by presenting your artistic ideas through class activities, performances, written and verbal critiques, viewing of actual productions, and researching theatre topics

Critical Thinking – by solving the problems posed in classroom activities and performances and by understanding the ethical and aesthetic power of stage performance

Personal Responsibility – by attendance and punctuality in class, by taking initiative in classroom activities, and by planning and managing your time in rehearsal and in preparing projects

Social Responsibility – by working with others in class activities, by making an active contribution to shows, and by your service to the community through play production