TH 101 Physical Technique I
2 Credits, Fall
Develop body alignment, articulation, flexibility, and stamina through the understanding and use of kinetic awareness, energy centers, physical improvisation, and the Feldenkrais technique. Work on organizing the body and mind, and making total physical self more available.
TH 102 Physical Technique II
2 Credits, Spring
Develop body alignment, articulation, flexibility, and stamina through the understanding and use of kinetic awareness, energy centers, physical improvisation, and the Feldenkrais technique. Work on organizing the body and mind, and making total physical self more available.
Prereq: TH 101
TH 111 Acting: Improvisation/Collaboration
2 Credits, Fall
Explore improvisational theater techniques that develop both your individual creativity and ensemble acting skills. Learn to apply these techniques to the actor’s process in the creation of character based on text, and in the collaborative development of a theater piece based on an assigned theme.
TH 112 Acting: Improvisation/Collaboration
2 Credits, Spring
Explore improvisational theater techniques that develop both your individual creativity and ensemble acting skills. Learn to apply these techniques to the actor’s process in scenework and in the collaborative development of a theater piece based on an assigned theme.
Prereq: TH 111
TH 113 Acting Fund. for Non-Majors
2 Credits, Fall/Spring
A beginning acting workshop incorporating an introduction to acting skills and techniques, including scene work and in-class performance projects.
TH 114 Acting Fund Non-Majors II
2 Credits, Spring
Continue to explore and expand acting skills and techniques through scene work and in-class performance projects.
TH 115 Stage Makeup
1 Credit, Fall/Spring
Learn techniques of makeup for the stage, including character, corrective, old age, and special effects. Cross-listed as PP 115.
TH 116 Advanced Stage Makeup
1 Credit, Spring
Learn three-dimensional makeup techniques as well as makeup design. Cross-listed as PP 116.
Prereq: TH 115
TH 121 Voice & Speech I
2 Credits, Fall
Develop an actor’s awareness of your own vocal instrument. Explore breath, placement, tone, and resonance using a combination of techniques with emphasis on the work of Kristen Linklater and Patsy Rodenburg. Study the sounds of spoken English in depth using the International Phonetic Alphabet in Patricia Fletcher’s Classically Speaking.
TH 122 Voice & Speech I
2 Credits, Spring
Develop an actor’s awareness of your own vocal instrument. Explore breath, placement, tone, and resonance using a combination of techniques with emphasis on the work of Kristen Linklater and Patsy Rodenburg. Study the sounds of spoken English in depth using the International Phonetic Alphabet in Patricia Fletcher’s Classically Speaking.
Prereq: TH 121
TH 132 Introduction to Musical Theater
2 Credits, Spring
This course will provide an introduction to the performance skills required for participation in musical theater production. The class will focus on solo and group singing as dramatic action, and introduce the basic dance styles used in musical theater. By audition.
TH 133 Private Vocal Instruction
2 Credits, Fall
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater.
TH 134 Private Vocal Instruction
2 Credits, Spring
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater.
TH 135 Private Vocal Instruction
3 Credits, Fall
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater.
TH 136 Private Vocal Instruction
3 Credits, Spring
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater.
TH 137 Introduction to Tap Dance
1 Credit, Fall
Introduction to Tap Dance technique focusing on basic tap vocabulary and rhythm.
TH 162 Literature of Theater
2 Credits, Spring
Explore a wide range of classical and modern plays, as well as important writing on acting, performance, design, and direction. Reading from the plays, exploring their dramatic structure, and discussing the relevance of each text will be the focus of class time. NOTE: Students should be prepared to buy anthologies plus supplemental readings.
TH 171 Text Analysis I
3 Credits, Fall
Examine the structure of dramatic text to find the clues to character and intention. Learn practical methods of analysis of units of action, objectives, tactics, and given circumstances through writing, discussion, and on-your-feet scene work.
TH 172 Text Analysis II
2 Credits, Spring
Examine the structure of dramatic text to find the clues to character and intention. Learn practical methods of analysis of units of action, objectives, tactics, and given circumstances through writing, discussion, and on-your-feet scene work.
Prereq: TH 171
TH The Art of Yoga
2 Credits, Fall/Spring
The class provides centering, breathing, and relaxation techniques.
TH 201 Physical Technique III
2 Credits, Fall
Examine the physical life of the actor and explore patterns, gestures, and forms through the use of mask, movement analysis, and balance techniques. The work will include the dynamics of physical neutrality, point of focus, and psycho-physical connections as they apply to acting concepts covered in TH 211–212.
Prereq: TH 102
TH 202 Physical Technique IV
2 Credits, Spring
Examine the physical life of the actor and explore patterns, gestures, and forms through the use of mask, movement analysis, and balance techniques. The work will include the dynamics of physical neutrality, point of focus, and psycho-physical connections as they apply to acting concepts covered in TH 211–212.
Prereq: TH 201
TH 207 Tai Chi Chuan
2 Credits, Spring
Introduction to the Chinese Martial Art/Exercise System of Tai Chi Chuan. The 24 Movement Simplified Form from the Chen Style of Tai Chi Chuan will be taught. Tai Chi Chuan training develops smooth fluid movement, increases circulation, physical strength, balance, focus, and clarity of intention. Supplemental exercises will also be taught to enhance the student’s experience, and increase the benefits of form practice.
TH 211 Acting Fundamentals I
3 Credits, Fall
Continue to lay the groundwork that is the foundation of all acting regardless of style. Learn through the use of games, improvisation, and scripted work on contemporary American plays. In the second term, comedy and characterization will be emphasized.
Prereq: TH 112 and 172
TH 212 Acting Fundamentals II
3 Credits, Spring
Continue to lay the groundwork that is the foundation of all acting regardless of style. Learn through the use of games, improvisation, and scripted work on contemporary American plays. In the second term, comedy and characterization will be emphasized
Prereq: TH 211
TH 221 Voice & Speech II
2 Credits, Fall
The actor’s vocal instrument meets text. Learn techniques, drawn from the work of Cicely Berry and Patsy Rodenburg, to develop relaxation, breath support, fuller resonance, dynamic release of sound, vocal clarity and flexibility as applied to a variety of texts. Additional focus will be placed on phrasing, rhythm and integration of physical and vocal technique Continue studying phonetics while developing the Neutral American and Standard British dialects (using Patricia Fletcher’s text, Classically Speaking).
Prereq: TH 122
TH 222 Voice & Speech II
2 Credits, Spring
The actor’s vocal instrument meets text. Learn techniques, drawn from the work of Cicely Berry and Patsy Rodenburg, to develop relaxation, breath support, fuller resonance, dynamic release of sound, vocal clarity and flexibility as applied to a variety of texts. Additional focus will be placed on phrasing, rhythm and integration of physical and vocal technique Continue studying phonetics while developing the Neutral American and Standard British dialects (using Patricia Fletcher’s text, Classically Speaking).
Prereq: TH 221
TH 231 Musical Theater Theory
2 Credits, Fall
Attain a fundamental understanding of music theory and practical approaches to interpreting a musical score. You will learn the basics of score reading, key signatures, time signatures, rhythm, musicianship, phrasing, articulation, dynamics and basic piano proficiency and directly apply these skills through improvisation and performance opportunities.
Prereq: TH 132
TH 232 Musical Theater Theory/Application
2 Credits, Fall/Spring
Continue to explore music theory and practical approaches to interpreting a dramatic musical score, including group piano, ear-training, sight-singing, rhythm and harmony. The course will also facilitate rehearsal on the Spring musical Sophomore Ensemble Project.
Prereq: TH 231
TH 233 Private Vocal Instruction
2 Credits, Fall
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater. Department Authorization Required
TH 234 Private Vocal Instruction
2 Credits, Spring
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater. Department Authorization Required
TH 235 Private Vocal Instruction
3 Credits, Fall
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater. Department Authorization Required
TH 236 Private Vocal Instruction
3 Credits, Spring
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater. Department Authorization Required
TH 240 Rehearsal-Performance Project
2 Credits, Spring
Rehearse and perform in a production of a modern play intended to engage the skill set you have gained in your first two years at Cornish.
TH 241 Auto-Cours
1 Credit, Fall, Pass/Fail
This class is focused on the conditions created by group creative process and the ensemble generation of dramatic work through weekly presentations based on themes assigned by the instructors. Afternoon rehearsal periods are scheduled Monday through Thursday. The presentations will be followed by a discussion of the week’s work during the Friday class meeting.
TH 242 Ensemble Creation Project
2 Credits, Spring
Create and perform an original theater piece under the guidance of a professional director/dramaturg.
TH 244 Audition Workshop
1 Credit, Spring, Pass/Fail
An audition-specific workshop designed to introduce basic skills needed for transition into the casting process.
TH 245 Stage Management
1 Credit, Fall/Spring, Pass/Fail
Stage-manage a Theater Department production, typically a Studio or Black Box show. With approval from the department chair, students may stage-manage a Theater Department Senior Project.
TH 246 Musical Theater Project
2 Credits, Spring
Rehearse and perform in a production of a one-act musical intended to engage the skill set you have gained in your first two years at Cornish.
TH 261 Theater History
3 Credits, Fall
Study the evolution of the art and crafts of theater through the ages. Consider the relationship of drama, acting styles, playing space, social conditions, methods of production, and aesthetic values within their historical contexts, in selected eras from the Greeks to the twentieth century. Open to all majors., NOTE: This course will satisfy Arts Elective requirements or H&S Elective requirements for non-Theater/non-Performance Production students.
TH 262 Theater History II
3 Credits, Spring
Study the evolution of the art and crafts of theater through the ages. Consider the relationship of drama, acting styles, playing space, social conditions, methods of production, and aesthetic values within their historical contexts, in selected eras from the Greeks to the twentieth century. NOTE: This course can satisfy H&S Electives or Arts Elective requirements for non-Theater or non-Performance students.
Prereq: TH 261
TH 264 Special Topics in Film History
3 Credits, Fall/Spring
A variety of focused inquiries into film history, with courses applying specific philosophical concepts to the study of significant directors, actors, genres, national cinema, etc. (Recent examples include “The Transatlantic Hitchcock” and “Undead Footage”). Activities include weekly viewings; short readings in theory, history, and philosophy; and a combination of creative and analytical assignments. NOTE: This course will satisfy Arts Elective requirements or H&S Elective requirements. Cross-listed as DE 234.
TH 265 Foundations of Film History
3 Credits, Fall/Spring
Each course in this recurrent series relates a classical mode of narrative- comedy, tragedy, epic, or genre-at-large-to the art of politics and cinema. Goals include the study and practice of core cinematic techniques. Activities include weekly viewings; short readings in theory, history, and philosophy; and a combination of creative and analytical assignments. NOTE: This course will satisfy Arts Elective requirements or H&S Elective requirements. Cross-listed as DE 235.
TH 278 Introduction to Applied Theater
2 Credits, Spring
Applied Theater introduces students to the various uses of theatre as a medium for education and social development. In this course, students will explore Applied Theater methods as they are used in non-traditional contexts such as teaching, the criminal justice system, healthcare, political arenas, and community development. Together we will examine the effectiveness and relevancy of different methods as they are applied to various communities in the US and abroad. Finally, students will gain practical experience in facilitating Applied Theater practices through a group project that aims to serve disenfranchised people within the local community.
TH Yoga II
2 Credits, Fall/Spring
This class will build upon the foundations learned and acquired in DA/TH Yoga. The class will integrate a more intense level of asana and vinyasa (flow yoga) at the same time it will encourage each student to practice at a level that serves their well-being. There will be a book and in-class discussions as part of the practice.
TH 301 Clown
2 Credits, Fall
Explore the nature and creative possibilities of a personal clown while continuing the physical training of sophomore year. The improvisational format of this year-long class challenges personal and artistic boundaries through commitment to action in exaggerated form, and investigates the interrelationship of the actor and audience through the lens of presentational theater. The class concludes with the construction and rehearsal of a year-end presentation. Theater Original Works concentration or by permission
TH 302 Clown
2 Credits, Spring
Explore the nature and creative possibilities of a personal clown while continuing the physical training of sophomore year. The improvisational format of this year-long class challenges personal and artistic boundaries through commitment to action in exaggerated form, and investigates the interrelationship of the actor and audience through the lens of presentational theater. The class concludes with the construction and rehearsal of a year-end presentation.
Prereq: TH 301
TH 311 Acting Workshop I
3 Credits, Fall
Explore the tools for making deep, specific, personal connections to the essential human dilemmas that drive world theater. Clarify the actor’s contribution to the professional rehearsal process: homework, research, analysis, and bringing active choices to the collaboration. Through exercises, improvisation, and scene work you will address the following actor essentials: availability, action, reality of doing, personalization and justification, and inhabiting character organically and fully. Course covers work in the Greeks, Shakespeare and Chekhov, among others.
Prereq: TH 212
TH 312 Acting Workshop II
2 Credits, Spring
Explore the tools for making deep, specific, personal connections to the essential human dilemmas that drive world theater. Clarify the actor’s contribution to the professional rehearsal process: homework, research, analysis, and bringing active choices to the collaboration. Through exercises, improvisation, and scene work you will address the following actor essentials: availability, action, reality of doing, personalization and justification, and inhabiting character organically and fully. Course covers work in the Greeks, Shakespeare and Chekhov, among others.
Prereq: TH 311
TH 313 Acting on Camera
1 Credit, Fall
Learn the techniques necessary to integrate the camera into your acting, including pitching your performance at the right level and awareness of camera angles and editing imperatives. Material ranges from contemporary transformational scene work to Chekhov. Concurrent enrollment in TH 311–312 is required.
Prereq: TH 212
TH 314 Acting on Camera II
1 Credit, Spring
Learn the techniques necessary to integrate the camera into your acting, including pitching your performance at the right level and awareness of camera angles and editing imperatives. Material ranges from contemporary transformational scene work to Chekhov. Concurrent enrollment in TH 311–312 is required.
Prereq: TH 313
TH 321 Advanced Vocal Technique I
2 Credits, Fall
Expand your vocal range and power, and deepen you understanding of classical text work in preparation for performance in a variety of indoor and outdoor venues, while continuing to work with The International Phonetic Alphabet.
Prereq: TH 222
TH 322 Advanced Vocal Technique II
2 Credits, Spring
Expand your vocal range and power, and deepen you understanding of classical text work in preparation for performance in a variety of indoor and outdoor venues, while continuing to work with The International Phonetic Alphabet.
Prereq: TH 321
TH 331 Dance for Actors
2 Credits, Fall
Develop muscular strength and control, coordination, stretch, balance, spatial awareness, and the carriage needed for period work through rigorous dance exercises. This work is comprised of floor warm-ups, work at the ballet barre, isolations, center work, and combinations across the floor, as well as some basic partnering.
TH 332 Dance for Actors
2 Credits, Spring
Develop muscular strength and control, coordination, stretch, balance, spatial awareness, and the carriage needed for period work through rigorous dance exercises. This work is comprised of floor warm-ups, work at the ballet barre, isolations, center work, and combinations across the floor, as well as some basic partnering.
Prereq: TH 331
TH 333 Private Vocal Instruction
2 Credits, Fall
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater. Department Authorization Required
TH 334 Private Vocal Instruction
2 Credits, Spring
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater. Department Authorization Required
TH 335 Private Vocal Instruction
3 Credits, Fall
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater. Department Authorization Required
TH 336 Private Vocal Instruction
3 Credits, Spring
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater. Department Authorization Required
TH 338 Musical Theater Audition Workshop
2 Credits, Spring
Continued acquisition of the combination of acting, singing, and physical skills necessary to perform musical theater. This class focuses on your development of a roster of audition material for different styles of musical theater. Pre-requisites, TH 132 and TH 231–TH 232 or audition.
Prereq: TH 232
TH 339 Fundamentals of Theater Dance
2 Credits, Fall
A continuation of dance studies specifically for musical theater, including learning examples of American musical theater choreography.
Prereq: TH 132 or 232
TH 340 Fundamentals of Theater Dance
2 Credits, Spring
A continuation of dance studies specifically for musical theater, including learning examples of American musical theater choreography.
Prereq: TH 232 or 339
TH 341–342 Rehearsal/Performance
1 Credit, Fall/Spring
Expand your interpretive skills in a variety of rehearsal and performance situations, ranging from fully produced mainstage productions to process-oriented developmental work.
Prereq: TH 311 and 371
TH 343–344 Rehearsal/Performance
2 Credits, Fall/Spring
Expand your interpretive skills in a variety of rehearsal and performance situations, ranging from fully produced mainstage productions to process-oriented developmental work.
Prereq: TH 311 and 371
TH 345–346 Rehearsal/Performance
3 Credits, Fall/Spring
Expand your interpretive skills in a variety of rehearsal and performance situations, ranging from fully produced mainstage productions to process-oriented developmental work.
Prereq: TH 311 and 371
TH 348 Studio: Text into Performance
2 Credits, Spring
Work as an ensemble on a project that incorporates heightened form, literate and highly demanding text, and extraordinary physical staging. Productions may take place outdoors as well as in larger indoor venues. An integrated team of a director, vocal coach, movement coach, text coach, and an acting coach will lead this project from conception through completion.
TH 311 and 371
TH 349–350 Rehearsal/Performance
2 Credits, Fall/Spring
This class is an arts elective class for students in other departments who participate in Theatre Department productions. For instance if a, Music student composes or performs in a Theatre department production, or a Dance student who contributes choreography, they may receive arts elective credit for that work.
TH 361 Contemporary Theater Studies
3 Credits, Fall
Continued examination of the theory and practice of theater in the modern era.
TH 365 Teaching Assistantship
2 Credits, Fall
Work alongside a Cornish Theater instructor as a teaching assistant. Acquire the means and methods to employ your skills as a teacher as well as a performer. This course will provide you with a theoretical framework for teaching theater as well as hands-on experience working alongside teachers in lower-division classes.
TH 366 Teaching Assistantship
2 Credits, Spring
Work alongside a Cornish Theater instructor as a teaching assistant. Acquire the means and methods to employ your skills as a teacher as well as a performer. This course will provide you with a theoretical framework for teaching theater as well as hands-on experience working alongside teachers in lower-division classes.
TH 371 Acting Classical Texts I
3 Credits, Fall
Learn to combine intensive, practical analysis of heightened language with the performance skills needed to bring classics to life. You will examine and interpret a wide range of classic texts and sonnets with a major emphasis on Shakespeare’s plays.
Prereq: TH 212
TH 372 Acting Classical Texts II
2 Credits, Spring
Through work on Restoration, late eighteenth century, and other texts, you will focus on acting skills in the manners and the language of these periods.
Prereq: TH 371
TH 375 Global Arts Encounters I
1 Credit, Fall
Travel to London, New York, and other cities. Each trip will feature visits to museums, theaters, and other cultural institutions and locations. Travel happens outside of the regular academic calendar.
TH 376 Global Arts Encounters I
1 Credit, Spring
The second semester in a two-semester sequence includes writing and reflection on the tour experience, culminating in a presentation.
Prereq: TH 375
TH 381 Original Works I
2 Credits, Fall
Investigate the meaning and process of generating original works for the stage. Explore the disciplines of playwriting, directing, solo performance, and ensemble creation. Admission by audition. Theater Original Works concentration or by permission
TH 382 Original Works II
4 Credits, Spring
Investigate the meaning and process of generating original works for the stage. Explore the disciplines of playwriting, directing, solo performance, and ensemble creation.
Prereq: TH 381
TH 385 Interdisciplinary Arts Workshop
2 Credits, Fall/Spring
Interdisciplinary Art is one of the most exciting forms of artistic expression today. This course focuses on active collaboration with other artists; the use of various mediums of artistic expression; in-class workshops and improvisation, and the process of creating art. Students will be introduced to different artistic disciplines and can be expected to share their own ideas and skills with others in a collaborative manner. The course culminates in the creation of a special interdisciplinary arts performance at the end of the semester. If you’re looking to collaborate with artists from disciplines other than your own major, this is the course for you! Recommended and open to all majors.
TH 396–399 Independent Study
1 to 4 Credits
Focuses on a special project of the student’s choice and design that is unavailable within the regular curriculum.
Prerequisites: junior standing and permission from Department Chair.
TH 401 Stage Combat
2 Credits, Fall
Develop character movement in the context of a specific physical form: stage combat (armed and unarmed). Learn the safe use of rapier, dagger, broadsword, and quarterstaff. Develop specificity of movement, clarity of physical choices, and balance of one’s own energy with that of a partner.
Prereq: TH 312
TH 402 Stage Combat
2 Credits, Spring
Develop character movement in the context of a specific physical form: stage combat (armed and unarmed). Learn the safe use of rapier, dagger, broadsword, and quarterstaff. Develop specificity of movement, clarity of physical choices, and balance of one’s own energy with that of a partner. Students can test for Certification as an Actor-Combatant with the Society of American Fight Directors.
Prereq: TH 401
TH 404 Intro to Clown
2 Credits, Spring
Explore the nature and creative possibilities of personal clown. The improvisational format of this fast-paced class challenges personal and artistic boundaries through commitment to action in exaggerated form, and investigates the interrelationship of actor and audience through the lens of presentational theater.
TH 406 Advanced Clown
2 Credits, Spring
This class will continue to explore the personal clown personas created in TH 301–302, and focus on the generative process for creation of performance material. Some historical and dramaturgical study will be included and students should expect some out-of-class work. We will conclude with a presentation of material at year’s end.
Prereq: TH 302
TH 408 Mask & Character
2 Credits, Spring
A studio class that explores the nature of expressive mask technique, and helps the actor discover the physicality of character through form and gesture. Both improvisation and prepared assignments will be the basis for conducting the research of masked characterization.
Prereq: TH 202
TH 411 Advanced Acting Workshop
3 Credits, Fall
Immerse yourself in intensive scene work, focusing on exploration of mystery, ambiguity, and subtext. Use and synthesize all techniques taught in the curriculum. Prereq: TH 312
TH 416 Acting Special Topics:
2 Credits, Spring
This course will change year-to-year depending on the interest of students and faculty. Potential topics include: Acting with Dialects, Advanced Classical Text, Biomechanics and Characterization, and Ensemble Performance. The focus will be on specific topics that will orient students toward a strong area of post-graduation interest. Prereq: TH 312
TH 417 Solo Performance I
2 Credits, Fall/Spring
Create your own self-generated performance piece while studying the history and development of contemporary solo performance. Students will explore a range of methods for creating a solo performance, and follow up in the second semester with the creation of a full-length (30–45 minutes) piece.
TH 418 Solo Performance II
2 Credits, Spring
Create your own self-generated performance piece while studying the history and development of contemporary solo performance. Students will explore a range of methods for creating a solo performance, and follow up in the second semester with the creation of a full-length (30–45 minutes) piece.
TH 421 Voice and Speech Skills
2 Credits, Fall
Use the vocal and speech techniques you have learned to master regional dialects and foreign accents. Explore the range and depth of your voice as a tool in creating character. Work to create a reel showcasing your voice-over skills. Continue to work with Skinner Speech.
Prereq: TH 322
TH 422 Voiceover & Commercial Voice Skills
2 Credits, Spring
This two-month course explores the demands of the commercial voice profession, and prepares you with instruction in commercial script analysis, cold reading, microphone techniques, and self-marketing. Some class time will be spent in Seattle area recording studios.
TH 423 Special Topics in Voice & Speech
2 Credits, Fall
This course is a continuation of the study of phonetics, incorporating international sounds and corresponding symbols which are not usually found in American English. Advanced transcription work will assist the student in recording and learning dialects not typically covered in TH 421 Voice Skills.
Prereq: TH 322
TH 431 Musical Theater Dance Styles
2 Credits, Fall
A continuation of dance studies specifically for musical theater, including learning examples of American musical theater choreography.
TH 433 Private Vocal Instruction
2 Credits, Fall
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater. Department Authorization Required
TH 434 Private Vocal Instruction
2 Credits, Spring
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater. Department Authorization Required
TH 435 Private Vocal Instruction
3 Credits, Fall
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater. Department Authorization Required
TH 436 Private Vocal Instruction
3 Credits, Spring
Private singing lessons focusing on the techniques of musicianship, breathing, placement and other performance skills necessary for proficiency in the contemporary musical theater. Department Authorization Required
TH 438 Neo-Burlesque: Theory & Performance
This studio class examines the theatrical genres of Neo-Burlesque and Cabaret as forms of solo performance and dramatic story telling. Study will include a historical look of the evolution of the art form, modern examples of Neo-Burlesque in practice, and fair business practices for today’s cabaret performer. Students will learn how to develop a character persona and generate a solo piece, along with the necessary performance skills that are unique to the genre of burlesque. We will also address make-up and costuming techniques, use of music, and how to employ existing acting/dance skills in service of the ‘art of the tease.’ No dance training or nudity required.
TH 439 Musical Theater Workshop
2 Credits, Fall
Continue to explore a range of music-theater material, with the objective of creating a musical revue for performance in a cabaret setting at the end of the term. Prereq: TH 338
TH 441–442 Rehearsal/Performance
1 Credit, Fall/Spring
Rehearsal and performance in departmental productions under the guidance of faculty and guest directors. Senior ensemble productions range from fully-mounted works by contemporary authors, modern classics, and new and ensemble-generated theater works.
Prereq: TH 312
TH 443–444 Rehearsal/Performance
2 Credits, Fall/Spring
Rehearsal and performance in departmental productions under the guidance of faculty and guest directors. Senior ensemble productions range from fully-mounted works by contemporary authors, modern classics, and new and ensemble-generated theater works.
Prereq: TH 312
TH 445–446 Rehearsal/Performance
3 Credits, Fall/Spring
Rehearsal and performance in departmental productions under the guidance of faculty and guest directors.
Prereq: TH 312
TH 451 Audition Techniques
2 Credits, Fall
Acquire practical techniques to select, prepare, and perform audition pieces, musical and dance auditions, and commercial auditions. Learn about cold reading, professional résumés, headshots, and professional etiquette, as well as how to create relationships with agents and unions.
Prereq: TH 312
TH 452 Adv Auditioning for Musical Theater
1 Credit, Spring
Learn the essential skills necessary to audition with music for any musical or play. You will emerge with appropriately chosen, edited, and well-rehearsed songs to accompany your audition monologues. Pre-requisite: TH 338 or permission.
Prereq: TH 338
TH 454 Auditioning for the Camera
1 Credit, Spring
This class is designed to give the actor specific instruction on preparation and execution of commercial and film scripts for camera auditions. The goals of the course are to demystify the camera audition process and to give the actors techniques to break down scripts, make appropriate choices, and to take direction. It will also prepare the actor for the broadcast market, including advice on pictures, résumés, agents, and other business aspects of the actor’s career.
Prereq: TH 312
TH 457–458 Internship
1 to 6 Credits, Fall/Spring
Participate in rehearsal and performance of one or more shows with a professional theater company. By audition and permission of Theater Department faculty. Department Authorization Required
TH 462 ST: Theater History, Lit and Theory
3 Credits, Spring
A rotating class covering a variety of topics in Theater History, Dramatic Literature and Dramatic Theory.
Prereq: TH 312
TH 465–466 Teaching Assistantship
2 Credits, Fall/Spring
Work alongside a Cornish Theater instructor as a teaching assistant. Acquire the means and methods to employ your skills as a teacher as well as a performer. This course will provide you with a theoretical framework for teaching theater as well as hands-on experience working alongside teachers in lower-division classes.
TH 471 Senior Seminar
1 Credit, Fall
Senior Seminar will cover a range of topics including preparations for Senior Thesis Project, as well as other issues of concern to the graduating Theater Major, including mission statements, fundraising, taxes for artists, etc.
TH 472 Senior Thesis
3 Credits, Fall/Spring
This class involves the creation and presentation of the senior thesis project, under the supervision of designated Theater faculty. NOTE: By permission of the department chair, this project may be undertaken in the fall.
Prereq: TH 471
TH 478 The Business of Theater
2 Credits, Spring
The Business of Theater is designed to continue the work begun in the fall semester of Senior Seminar with an intensive exploration of the practical considerations and effective business practices useful in building a career in the theater. The course seeks to help the aspiring theater practitioner build a sensible and actionable business plan as well as develop the habits and skills necessary to pursue work, develop relationships, market one’s skills, and establish a sustaining career.
TH 483 Playwriting Laboratory
2 Credits, Fall
Continued exploration of techniques of playwriting, focusing on creating a substantial one-act or full-length play which might serve as the senior thesis.
Prereq: TH 382
TH 484 Creating Digital Drama 2
Credits, Spring
An intensive course in the creation, casting, production, directing, editing, and performance of short dramatic pieces intended for posting on the internet. Course also covers issues of copyright protection. Through a juried selection process the strongest pieces are approved for posting.
TH 485 Intro to Playwriting/Directing
2 Credits, Fall
Explore the relationships between the different functions of actor, director, and playwright. Create original dramatic scenes and short plays; direct scenes from original and established texts.
Prereq: TH 312
TH 486 Playwriting Workshop
1 Credit, Spring
An eight-week workshop in which you can explore playwriting techniques and write one or more original scripts.
TH 487 Directing Laboratory
2 Credits, Fall
Continued exploration of techniques of directing, culminating in the presentation of a class-produced festival of ten-minute plays.
Prereq: TH 382
TH 488 Directing Workshop
1 Credit, Spring
An eight-week workshop in which you can explore directing techniques and direct one or more projects. Open to non-majors with permission.
TH 496–499 Independent Study
1 to 4 Credits
Focuses on a special project of the student’s choice and design that is unavailable within the regular curriculum.
Prerequisites: senior standing and permission from Department Chair.