Academic Catalogs

THEA G188: Stage Movement 1

Course Outline of Record
Item Value
Curriculum Committee Approval Date 09/17/2019
Top Code 100700 - Dramatic Arts
Units 3 Total Units 
Hours 90 Total Hours (Lecture Hours 36; Lab Hours 54)
Total Outside of Class Hours 0
Course Credit Status Credit: Degree Applicable (D)
Material Fee No
Basic Skills Not Basic Skills (N)
Repeatable No
Grading Policy Standard Letter (S)

Course Description

This course will instruct actors in the use of the body as an expressive instrument in performance focusing on introductory movement skills, physical awareness, movement improvisation and stage combat. Transfer Credit: CSU; UC. C-ID: THTR 191.C-ID: THTR 191.

Course Level Student Learning Outcome(s)

  1. Course Outcomes
  2. Demonstrate body control, visual fluidity and purpose in movement for dramatic plays and musicals through the use and understanding of movement theories at an introductory level.

Course Objectives

  • 1. Explain knowledge of several visual movement arts at an introductory level
  • 2. Exhibit introductory exercise experience as well as knowledge learned from other learning areas to improve the actors movement on stage.
  • 3. Demonstrate knowledge gained by applying class exercises to written drama at an introductory level.
  • 4. At an introductory level, achieve the fullest range and clarity of physical and emotional expression of the body as it moves in relation to the surrounding space.

Lecture Content

Introductory Movement Theory Movement theories, their purpose and aesthetic value Movement improvisations Relaxation Breathing techniques Alignment Locomotor movements Dynamics Alexander Technique Other movement/performance techniques Specific Introductory Movement Challenges for the Actor in the Performing Arts Reading and lecture Music Movement improvisation Choreography Story theater

Lab Content

Introductory Exercises in Movement Theory Movement improvisation Relaxation Breathing techniques Alignment (Alexander Technique) Locomotor movements Dynamics Introductory Classical Dance and Movement Forms Exercises Ballet Modern Tap Historical Classical Ballroom Contemporary Ballroom Folk Musical theater Jazz Pantomime Specific Introductory Movement Challenges for the Actor in the Performing Arts Exercises Acrobatics Movement improvisation Stage combat and swordplay

Method(s) of Instruction

  • Lecture (02)
  • Lab (04)

Instructional Techniques

Lecture/Lab

Reading Assignments

Required readings from the text and websites.Play scripts and libretto.

Writing Assignments

Written critique of theatrical productions analyzing all movement aspects of the live theater production. Homework assignments, discussions, and reports.

Out-of-class Assignments

Literary and historical research.Written critiques of performances evaluating movement and choreography.

Demonstration of Critical Thinking

1. Written evaluations of homework assignments and discussion topics that define and provide examples of specific movement terminology and techniques. 2. Written critique format to compare and evaluate the physical staging and choreographic choices utilized in performances viewed, comparing and evaluating how movement replaced dialogue and, in doing so, furthered plot and character development.

Required Writing, Problem Solving, Skills Demonstration

1. Written reviews of plays and musicals analyzing all movement aspects of the live theater production.2. Skills demonstration of proficiency in all movement forms explored including stage combat, dance, and movement improvisations at an introductory level.

Eligible Disciplines

Dance: Masters degree in dance, physical education with a dance emphasis, or theater with dance emphasis, OR bachelors degree in any of the above AND masters degree in physical education, any life science, physiology, theater arts, kinesiology, humanities, performing arts, or music OR the equivalent. Masters degree required. Drama/theater Arts: Masters degree or Master of Fine Arts in drama/theater arts/performance OR bachelors degree or Bachelor of Fine Arts in drama/theater/performance AND masters degree in comparative literature, English, communication studies, speech, literature, or humanities OR the equivalent. Masters degree required. Theater arts: See drama/theater arts Masters degree required.

Textbooks Resources

1. Optional Potter, Nicole and Adrian, Barbara and Fleischer, Mary. Movement for Actors, 2nd ed. Allworth Press, 2017 Rationale: -

Other Resources

1. Published play scripts and libretto.