Detailed Course Descriptions for Drama

Introduction to Oral Interpretation (Drama 2) focuses on the study of literature through performance. Students share their understanding of literary texts (drama, prose, and poetry) with an audience after analysis and translation of analysis into physical and vocal expression. Three units; spring semester only.

Introduction to Theater (Drama 24) is a general survey of the most significant genres and structures of plays, the major periods and traditions of dramatic art, and the nature of dramatic presentation and the collaborative process. Three units. Meets the general education requirements in Humanities for an A.A. or A.S. degree.

Theater Production (Drama 26) is an introduction to all aspects of a theatrical production culminating in the presentation of a play before a live audience. Recent productions have included Moliere's The Miser (2003) and Tartuffe (2004) and Charles Marowitz's Wilde West (2005). May be taken four times for credit. Two units. As of 2005-06 academic year, will be offered fall semester only. Ordinarily offered as a late-start, eight-week course.

Acting I (Drama 30A) is a course designed to study the separate facets of acting, including physical movement and vocal technique. Emphasis is placed on improvisation and practical exercises leading to formal scene work. The ultimate goal is to develop a firm foundation in basic acting technique. Three units. Fall semester only.

Acting II (Drama 30B) focuses on cultivating different types of acting styles, with an emphasis on character development and script analysis, and continuing work on voice and movement. Preparation: Drama 30A or equivalent. May be taken twice for credit. Three units. Spring semester only.

Musical Theater Production (Drama 34) is an introduction to all aspects of musical theater production from audition to performance before a live audience. Recent productions have included Music Man (2003), Brigadoon (2004) and Beauty and the Beast (2005). May be taken four times for credit. Two units. Summer session only.

Field Experience in Drama (Drama 38) involves supervised placement at an approved local community theater; students contract with community theaters for a semester of experiential service in their area of interest. Two units. May be taken four times for credit.

Click below for the most recent syllabus for each class listed above:  These are PDF files, and can only be viewed with free Adobe Acrobat (get it here)

Drama 2

Drama 24 (Abbey)

Drama 24 (Lyth)

Drama 24 (Thomas)

Drama 26

Drama 30A

Drama 30B

Drama 34

Drama 38