Schreiner university theatre-learning by heart

The B.A. in Theatre includes coursework in technical theatre, acting, theatre history, playwrighting, Shakespeare and dramatic literature, and advanced performance techniques.  Coursework is augmented with performances each semester in which students may direct (junior year or above), perform, and/or work in technical areas.  Students pursuing this degree will be trained in dramatic criticism and theory, theatre history, and performance techniques that will prepare the student for further study in graduate programs and/or performance.  The training available at Schreiner University is mainly ‘hands on’ and students are encouraged to participate in as many aspects of theatre performance as possible.  Schreiner theatre students learn by doing and by participating in a program that allows them to be mentored in technical and performance techniques. 

Graduates in theatre are qualified to work in community theatre, children’s theatre, regional theatre and professional theatre.  Graduates are also encouraged to apply and attend graduate programs in theatre for further study, especially if they desire to teach or write in the areas of dramatic theory and criticism, playwrighting, and research.

As with any professional program, the classroom and performance aspects of a B.A. the theatre is enhanced by experience in related performance venues within the Hill Country area.  Students in theatre may intern at Playhouse 2000, the Cailloux Performing Arts Theater, and the Point Theater in Ingram, Texas.  Students choosing to perform internships at the off-campus venues will work in a variety of theatre-related activities including, but not limited to; theatre management, stage management, technical areas (lighting, sound, props, costumes, make-up) and box office.  Schreiner’s own ‘black box’ theatre averages four performances a per semester.  The First Monday Series performs the first Monday of each month of the academic year and is primarily a Reader’s Theatre presentation, though one act plays, new plays, and student directed plays are preformed as part of the series.  One full length play, usually directed by one of Schreiner’s theatre faculty is presented each semester.  For a look at our past listings please see the Schreiner theatre web cite.  The Hanszen Fine Arts Theatre located on the Schreiner University campus is an intimate theatre with a seating capacity of approximately 75-125.  The theatre is adaptable to theatre in the round, thrust staging, as well as traditional proscenium staging.  If you have questions concerning the theatre department contact  830-792-7401 or csulliva@schreiner.edu

COURSES IN THEATRE:

THEATRE REHEARSAL AND PERFORMANCE

Laboratory in acting, stage management, design, construction and handling of scenery, lighting sound, properties, costume and make-up.  May be repeated for credit.

MOVEMENT FOR THE THEATRE

An introduction to the basics of stage movement with exercises in stage movement styles (classic Greek and Roman, Shakespearean, Modern and Avant-Garde).  Exercises in body alignment (discussion of movement problems and injuries) and exercises in relaxation techniques.  Definition of history of one or more of the following:  Alexander Technique, Laban, Feldenkrais, Yoga and/ or Reiki.  May be repeated once.

INTRODUCTION TO THE THEATRE I AND II

A non-Major study of basic elements of theatre.  A basic survey of theatre history in the Western world and play analysis and emphasized.  Second semester involves lighting design and stage directing.  Also floor plans, lighting plots, and short, student-directed scenes are required.

ACTING I

Basic acting with emphasis on play structure, character development, and elementary problems of ensemble playing.  Memorization and participation of dramatic presentations are required.

ACTING II

Theory and practice of acting.  Formal and informal performance of scenes throughout the semester.

THEATRE HISTORY I

A study of theatre history which traces the path of theatre from its beginnings through the Renaissance.  Emphasis is on the playwriting acting and directing styles, scenic innovations and theatre architecture of various periods.

THEATRE HISTORY II

A historical survey of major trends of the theatre and drama,  Emphasis in on theatre of Europe and the United States, however, the eastern theatre is covered also.  This course covers dramatic criticism, theatre trends, actors and acting styles, the role of the director and scenic innovations from the Renaissance to the contemporary theatre of the late 20th century

CREATIVE DRAMA FOR YOUNG AUDIENCES

Theory and practice of creative drama and young audiences including story dramatization, storytelling, pantomime, role playing and theatre games. 

STUDIES IN SHAKESPEARE

This course emphasizes reading and in-depth analysis of six major plays, examining the rich critical background of Shakespearean studies.

PLAYWRITING

The study and practice of writing plays of carious lengths.  Use of dialogue, movement and building of ideas into dramatic situations in emphasized.

DRAMATIC LITERATURE

This course includes reading in American, British and Continental literature, with emphasis on the development of ideas, themes, and motifs.

ADVANCED STUDIES IN THEATRE PERFORMANCE

An advanced study into performance aspects of theatre including: advanced acting and acting styles, stage directing, play analysis, dramatic criticism and scoring.

DIRECTED STUDY IN THEATRE

Subjects not offered as regular courses may be investigated by directed study pursuant to a plan proposed by the student and approved before registration by the supervising instructor and appropriated division chair.  Normally students enrolling with have upper-level status, a 2.0 GPA, and completed basic discipline courses.  Maybe be rep with a change in topic.