Department of Theatre

Chair: Mr. Kelly Dean Allison, MFA

The Department of Theatre subscribes to the philosophy that classroom study and practical experience are complementary and of equal value. A wide array of courses related to the performing arts are taught in well equipped studios and smart classrooms. Production opportunities are available in state-of-the-art production facilities, the Morris K. Sirote Theatre, and the Odess Theatre in the Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center.  

Majors

The Department of Theatre offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theatre with a General Concentration, a Pre-Professional Performance Concentration, a Pre-Professional Design and Technology Concentration, a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Musical Theatre, and a minor in Theatre. The department also offers an honors program for qualified students. 

BA Theatre majors may be admitted on a General Concentration without an audition or portfolio presentation. The General Concentration provides a student with a broad education in all areas of theatre. Those who wish to specialize in performance may audition for admission to the Pre-Professional Concentration in Performance, and those who wish to specialize in design and production may present a portfolio for admission to the Pre-Professional Concentration in Design and Production. The Pre-Professional Performance Concentration focuses on acting, with an emphasis on movement and vocal training. The Pre-Professional Design and Technology Concentration focuses on developing design and production skills in the areas of scenery, costume, lighting and audio. Auditions and portfolio reviews are held on campus two times during the academic year starting in November.  Additional auditions and portfolio reviews are held at a variety of state, regional and national events. 

The Musical Theatre BFA training program focuses on musical theatre performance skills with 78 semester hours in theatre, music, and dance. An audition is required to declare a Musical Theatre major. Auditions are held on campus two times during the academic year starting in November and additional auditions are conducted at a variety of state, regional and national events. Enrollment is limited so students who wish to pursue a Musical Theatre BFA are encouraged to audition early.

Theatre faculty provide individual mentoring and advising to help students matriculate and achieve their academic and professional goals. All students are expected to show progress toward completing university core requirements, participate in the department's productions, and to be professional both in attitude and actions while representing the department. 

Scholarships, Stipends, and Other Financial Aid

In addition to university financial aid, stipends and scholarships are available through the Department of Theatre to qualified students. Students awarded Theatre stipends and scholarships are expected to remain in academic good standing. Department scholarships require an overall GPA of 2.5 and a GPA of 3.0 for accumulated Theatre coursework. Students with department stipends must maintain an overall GPA of 2.25. For more information, call (205) 934-3236 or visit the department web site at www.uab.edu/cas/theatre

 Bachelor of Arts with Major in Theatre and a General Theatre Concentration

RequirementsHours
Required Courses
THR 124Theatre Technology: Scenery and Lighting3
THR 125Theatre Technology: Costumes and Makeup3
THR 154Beginning Acting3
THR 160Theatre Cornerstone1
THR 210Introduction to Theatrical Design3
THR 235Analysis of Dramatic Literature3
THR 365Directing I3
THR 481Theatre History to 1860 3
THR 482Theatre History from 1860 to Present 3
THR 491Theatre Capstone2
Theatre Design
Select three hours from the following:3
Lighting Design
Theatre Sound Design and Technology
Scenic Design
Costume Design
Theatre Performance
Select six hours from the following:6
Voice and Movement for the Actor I
Voice and Movement for the Actor II
Stage Management
Intermediate Acting
Stage Combat
Experimental Performance
Advanced Acting
Acting for the Camera
Auditioning
Dialects
Advanced Studio in Performance
Directing II
Theatre Writing
Select three hours from the following:3
Playwriting I
Screenwriting I
Exploring the African-American Creative Experience
Costume History and Period Style for the Theatre
Theatre Practicum
Complete three hours 13
Beginning Production Practicum
Beginning Performance Practicum
Theatre Electives
Select six hours from the following:6
Introduction to Dance 2
Jazz I
Tap I
Ballet I
Plays on Film 2
Voice and Movement for the Actor I
Voice and Movement for the Actor II
Beginning Production Practicum
Jazz II
Tap II
Ballet II
Playwriting I
Screenwriting I
Drawing and Rendering for the Theatre
Stage Management
Intermediate Acting
Exploring the African-American Creative Experience
Jazz III
Playwriting II
Screenwriting II
Stage Combat
Lighting Design
Theatre Sound Design and Technology
Scenic Design
Costume Design
Experimental Performance
Advanced Acting
Internship
Acting for the Camera
Advanced Production Practicum
Advanced Performance Practicum
Pattern Drafting
Auditioning
Dialects
Costume History and Period Style for the Theatre
Advanced Studio in Performance
Special Topics
Directing II
Individual Project in Design and Production
Advanced Studio in Scenery
Advanced Studio in Costumes
Advanced Studio in Lighting
Advanced Studio in Audio
Honors Project
Individual Studies
Total Hours48
1

One hour may be THR 205 performance, two hours must be technical THR 204.

2

Students may NOT apply THR 105 or THR 200 toward both this requirement and the university Core.

 Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Theatre and a Concentration in Pre-Professional Design & Technology

RequirementsHours
Required Courses
THR 124Theatre Technology: Scenery and Lighting3
THR 125Theatre Technology: Costumes and Makeup3
THR 154Beginning Acting3
THR 160Theatre Cornerstone1
THR 210Introduction to Theatrical Design3
THR 235Analysis of Dramatic Literature3
THR 365Directing I3
THR 481Theatre History to 1860 3
THR 482Theatre History from 1860 to Present 3
THR 491Theatre Capstone2
Theatre Design
THR 323Lighting Design3
THR 326Scenic Design3
THR 327Costume Design3
Theatre Practicum 1
Complete three hours:3
Beginning Production Practicum
Beginning Performance Practicum
Design & Technology Requirements
THR 226Drawing and Rendering for the Theatre3
THR 450Costume History and Period Style for the Theatre3
Design & Technology Electives
Select six hours from the following:6
Theatre Sound Design and Technology
Pattern Drafting
Individual Project in Design and Production
Advanced Studio in Scenery
Advanced Studio in Costumes
Advanced Studio in Lighting
Advanced Studio in Audio
Total Hours51

Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Theatre and a Concentration in Pre-Professional Performance

RequirementsHours
Required Courses
THR 124Theatre Technology: Scenery and Lighting3
THR 125Theatre Technology: Costumes and Makeup3
THR 154Beginning Acting3
THR 160Theatre Cornerstone1
THR 202Voice and Movement for the Actor I3
THR 203Voice and Movement for the Actor II3
THR 204Beginning Production Practicum2
THR 205Beginning Performance Practicum1
THR 210Introduction to Theatrical Design3
THR 235Analysis of Dramatic Literature3
THR 254Intermediate Acting3
THR 355Advanced Acting3
THR 365Directing I3
THR 430Auditioning3
THR 481Theatre History to 1860 3
THR 482Theatre History from 1860 to Present 3
THR 491Theatre Capstone2
Performance Electives
Select six hours from the following:6
Stage Combat
Experimental Performance
Dialects
Advanced Studio in Performance (May be repeated)
Total Hours51
 
 

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre

RequirementsHours
THR 100Introduction to the Theatre3
or THR 105 Introduction to Dance
THR 200Plays on Film3
THR 106Jazz I2
THR 107Tap I2
THR 108Ballet I2
THR 124Theatre Technology: Scenery and Lighting3
THR 125Theatre Technology: Costumes and Makeup3
THR 140Musical Theatre Class Voice1
THR 140 must be taken a second time1
THR 154Beginning Acting3
THR 160Theatre Cornerstone1
THR 202Voice and Movement for the Actor I3
THR 203Voice and Movement for the Actor II3
THR 204Beginning Production Practicum 12
THR 205Beginning Performance Practicum1
THR 206Jazz II2
THR 208Ballet II2
THR 258Musical Theatre Performance I3
THR 259Musical Theatre Performance II3
THR 261Musical Theatre Showcase I1
THR 254Intermediate Acting3
THR 306Jazz III2
THR 361Musical Theatre Showcase II1
THR 355Advanced Acting3
THR 411Contemporary Musical Theatre Dance Styles I2
THR 412Contemporary Musical Theatre Dance Styles II2
THR 430Auditioning3
THR 451Musical Theatre History and Script Analysis3
THR 461Musical Theatre Showcase III1
THR 493Musical Theatre Capstone2
THR 401NYC Showcase1
MUP 124Class Piano 11
MUP 124 must be taken a second time1
MUP 140Private Lessons: Voice 11
MUP 140 must be taken a second time1
Music Theory Requirement
MU 100Fundamentals of Music3
MU 221Music Theory I3
Aural Skills Requirement
2 hours required:2
Aural Skills I
Choose one from:1
Gospel Choir
University Chorus
Concert Choir
Chamber Singers
Women's Chorale
MUP 240Private Lessons: Voice 11
MUP 240 must be taken a second time1
MUP 340Private Lessons: Voice 11
MUP 340 must be taken a second time1
Total Hours84

Proposed Program of Study for a Major in Theatre with a General Concentration

Freshman
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
THR 124 or 1253THR 124 or 1253
THR 1543THR 2041
THR 1601 
 7 4
Sophomore
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
THR 2041THR 204 or 205 (May be taken any semester)1
THR 2103Performance Component or Writing Component1, 23
THR 2353 
 7 4
Junior
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
THR 365 (or Design Component)43THR 365 (or Design Component)43
THR 48133THR 48233
 THR 4912
 6 8
Senior
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
Theatre Elective53Theatre Elective53
Performance Component or Writing Component1, 23Performance Component or Writing Component1, 23
 6 6
Total credit hours: 48
1

Performance Component - Select six hours from the following courses: THR 202, THR 203, THR 230, THR 254, THR 318, THR 343, THR 355THR 377, THR 430, THR 435, THR 455 , THR 465

2

 Writing Component - Select three hours from the following:  THR 215, THR 216, THR 300, THR 450.

3

 Theatre History - Six required hours (do not have to be taken in sequence): THR 481 and THR 482.

4

 Design Component - Select three hours from the following: THR 323, THR 325, THR 326, or THR 327.

5

 Theatre Electives - Select six hours from the approved list of Theatre Electives for the General Concentration.

Proposed Program of Study for a Theatre Major with a Concentration in Design and Production

Freshman
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
THR 124 or 1253THR 124 or 1253
THR 1543THR 2041
THR 1601THR 2103
 7 7
Sophomore
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
THR 2041THR 2041
THR 226 or 3263THR 323 or 3273
THR 2353D/T Elective3
 7 7
Junior
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
THR 326 or 2263THR 323 or 3273
THR 481 or 45013THR 48213
 THR 4912
 6 8
Senior
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
D/T Elective23THR 3653
THR 450 or 4813 
 6 3
Total credit hours: 51
1

Theatre History - Six required hours (Do not have to take in sequence):  THR 481 and THR 482.

2

Design & Production Electives - Select six hours from the following: THR 230, THR 325, THR 470, THR 472, THR 474, THR 471THR 473, or THR 474

Proposed Program of Study for a Major in Theatre with a Concentration in Theatre Performance

Freshman
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
THR 124 or 1253THR 124 or 1253
THR 1543THR 2023
THR 1601THR 2041
 7 7
Sophomore
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
THR 2041THR 2103
THR 2353THR 343 or 4553
THR 2543 
 7 6
Junior
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
THR 2033THR 48213
THR 3653THR 4912
THR 48113 
 9 5
Senior
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
THR 3553THR 205 (May be taken any semester)1
THR 4303THR 435 or 4553
 6 4
Total credit hours: 51
1

Theatre History - Six required hours. (Do not have to take in sequence):  THR 481 and THR 482.

Proposed Program of Study for a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre

Freshman
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
THR 106 or 10812THR 1401
THR 1401THR 1543
THR 1601THR 2033
THR 2023THR 206 or 20812
THR 204 (Can be taken any semester)1MU 1003
 8 12
Sophomore
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
THR 106 or 10812THR 206 or 20812
THR 2611THR 2543
THR 2583THR 2593
MUP 1241MUP 1241
MUP 1401MUP 1401
MU 2213Choral Ensemble1
MU 2241 
 12 11
Junior
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
THR 100 or 1053THR 2003
THR 1072THR 2072
THR 1253THR 4303
THR 204 (Can be taken any semester)1THR 4513
THR 3611MUP 2401
MUP 2401 
 11 12
Senior
First TermHoursSecond TermHours
THR 3553THR 1243
THR 4112THR 205 (Can be taken any semester)1
THR 4611THR 3062
THR 4932THR 4011
MUP 3401MUP 3401
 9 8
Total credit hours: 83
1

Department will make assignment.

 Minor in Theatre

RequirementsHours
Required Theatre
THR 154Beginning Acting3
THR 210Introduction to Theatrical Design3
THR 235Analysis of Dramatic Literature3
Theatre Technology
THR 124Theatre Technology: Scenery and Lighting3
THR 125Theatre Technology: Costumes and Makeup3
Theatre History
Select one of the following:3
Theatre History to 1860
Theatre History from 1860 to Present
Theatre Electives
Select six hours from the following: 16
Jazz I
Tap I
Ballet I
Voice and Movement for the Actor I
Voice and Movement for the Actor II
Beginning Production Practicum
Jazz II
Tap II
Ballet II
Playwriting I
Screenwriting I
Drawing and Rendering for the Theatre
Stage Management
Intermediate Acting
Exploring the African-American Creative Experience
Jazz III
Playwriting II
Screenwriting II
Stage Combat
Lighting Design
Theatre Sound Design and Technology
Scenic Design
Costume Design
Experimental Performance
Advanced Acting
Directing I
Acting for the Camera
Advanced Production Practicum
Teaching Theatre in the Secondary School
Pattern Drafting
Auditioning
Dialects
Costume History and Period Style for the Theatre
Advanced Studio in Performance
Acting and Voicing with Archetypes
Special Topics
Directing II
Individual Project in Design and Production
Advanced Studio in Scenery
Advanced Studio in Costumes
Advanced Studio in Lighting
Advanced Studio in Audio
Theatre History to 1860
Theatre History from 1860 to Present
Total Hours24

A grade of C or better is required for courses applying to this minor.

Honors Program in Theatre

Purpose

The Theatre Honors Program is designed for outstanding students majoring in Theatre. Through mentored work on an individually developed creative project or research topic, students will develop skills in preparation for graduate school or a professional career.

Eligibility

Acceptance into the Theatre Honors Program requires the student to:

  • Be a Theatre major.
  • Have earned a 3.5 GPA in Theatre courses attempted.
  • Have earned a 3.0 GPA overall.
  • Have completed:
    RequirementsHours
    THR 124Theatre Technology: Scenery and Lighting3
    THR 125Theatre Technology: Costumes and Makeup3
    THR 154Beginning Acting3
    THR 210Introduction to Theatrical Design3
    THR 235Analysis of Dramatic Literature3
  • Have completed 60 hours toward the BA degree.
  • Have completed at least two UAB Theatre production practicum.

Requirements

  • Completion of required courses for the Theatre major.
  • Arrangement with a faculty mentor for a creative or research project.
  • Submission of a formal project proposal to the faculty mentor and the Honor’s committee.
  • Registration for 3 credit hours of THR 496.
  • Public presentation of the honors project.
  • Acceptance of the completed project by the faculty mentor and the Honor’s committee.
  • Submission of an archival copy of the project to the Theatre Department.

Benefits

In addition to the educational benefits of working on a mentored, individually designed project, honors majors receive a certificate at the Spring UAB Honors Convocation and will graduate “With Honors in Theatre.”

Contact

For more information and/or admission to the Theatre Honors Program, please contact:

Lee Shackleford
Department of Theatre
leeshack@uab.edu

Courses

THR 100. Introduction to the Theatre. 3 Hours.

Understanding the theatre experience through class lectures, reading and writing assignments, demonstrations, discussions, and viewing live evening performances. Writing is a significant component of this course. This course meets Blazer Core Creative Arts with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & High Impact Practices/Collaborative Assignments and Projects.

THR 102. Introduction to Cinema. 3 Hours.

Study and discussion of foundational and influential films, emphasizing their historical context and development of the art form over time.

THR 105. Introduction to Dance. 3 Hours.

Understanding the dance experience through class lectures, demonstrations, discussions, and viewing performances. This course meets Blazer Core Creative Arts requirement with a flag in Global/Multicultural.

THR 106. Jazz I. 2 Hours.

Basic movement and combinations based on modern jazz, Broadway/theatrical styles, and popular jazz forms. May be taken 3 times for a total of 6 hours.

THR 107. Tap I. 2 Hours.

Basic rhythmic studies and combinations based on Broadway/theatrical tap styles. May be taken 3 times for a total of 6 hours.

THR 108. Ballet I. 2 Hours.

Fundamentals of classic ballet technique with emphasis on analysis and proper execution. May be taken 3 times for a total of 6 hours.

THR 124. Theatre Technology: Scenery and Lighting. 3 Hours.

Scenic construction techniques and execution of stage lighting via lectures, demonstrations, and practical application. Emphasis in tools, materials and procedure. 40 lab hours outside of scheduled classes required.

THR 125. Theatre Technology: Costumes and Makeup. 3 Hours.

Fundamentals of costume construction, finishing and manipulation. Basic stage makeup techniques. Lectures, demonstrations and practical experience. 30 lab hours outside of scheduled classes required. Need instructor permission.

THR 140. Musical Theatre Class Voice. 1 Hour.

In Musical Theatre Voice I, students will begin an exploration of musical theatre singing voice by focusing on vocal production, specifically the Estill Voice Training System. Students will learn the 13 Figures for the voice and the foundations for the Estill Voice Training System.

THR 154. Beginning Acting. 3 Hours.

Introduction to the basic principles of acting. Exercises in talking and listening, actions and objectives, subtext and internal monologue.

THR 160. Theatre Cornerstone. 1 Hour.

The objective of this course is to introduce incoming freshmen to the professional performing arts industry and the UAB Department of Theatre community. Its primary objective is to prepare students for a successful collegiate career in the study and practice of theatre. Course required for majors in the first fall semester of residency.

THR 200. Plays on Film. 3 Hours.

Understanding major genres of drama through lecture, analysis, reading scripts, and viewing performances. This course meets Blazer Core Creative Arts with a flag in Global and Multicultural Perspectives.

THR 202. Voice and Movement for the Actor I. 3 Hours.

This course seeks to integrate voice and body in order to develop a free, flexible, and dynamic voice and body for the actor. Students will explore body work in order to develop kinesthetic awareness in the centering, grounding, and release of tension which are essential to the freeing of the voice. Students will explore expanded field of awareness as well as breath release, support for sound, resonance, embodying sounds, vocal hygiene, and vocal dynamics with applications to speaking text.

THR 203. Voice and Movement for the Actor II. 3 Hours.

A continuation of Voice and Movement for the Actor I with special emphasis on voice/body integration, field of awareness, breath support, range, dynamics, phrasing, tempo-rhythms. Students will explore how to use the voice working with a variety of dramatic texts. Additionally, students will explore principles of the Alexander Technique. May be repeated two times with permission of instructor.
Prerequisites: THR 202 [Min Grade: C]

THR 204. Beginning Production Practicum. 1-2 Hour.

Practical directed production experience in conjunction with actual production. THR 204 and THR 404 may be repeated for a combined total of 8 hours.

THR 205. Beginning Performance Practicum. 1 Hour.

Practical directed performance experience in conjunction with actual production. Requires audition. THR 205 and THR 405 may be repeated for a combined total of 8 hours. Requires permission of instructor.

THR 206. Jazz II. 2 Hours.

Intermediate exploration of jazz idiom, musicality, and technique, with emphasis on theatrical and choreographic styles. May be taken 3 times for a total of 6 hours.
Prerequisites: THR 106 [Min Grade: C]

THR 207. Tap II. 2 Hours.

Advanced exploration of tap genre, with emphasis on musicality and technique. May be taken 3 times for a total of 6 hours.
Prerequisites: THR 107 [Min Grade: C]

THR 208. Ballet II. 2 Hours.

Continued study of classic ballet technique. May be taken 3 times for a total of 6 hours.
Prerequisites: THR 108 [Min Grade: C]

THR 210. Introduction to Theatrical Design. 3 Hours.

Study and application of elements of design in theatre setting. Roles of scenic, lighting, and costume designers and their collaborative relationship with director.

THR 215. Playwriting I. 3 Hours.

Study and practicum in fundamentals of scriptwriting for live performance. Writing is a significant component of this course.
Prerequisites: EH 101 [Min Grade: C]

THR 216. Screenwriting I. 3 Hours.

Study and practicum in fundamentals of scriptwriting for screens large and small. Writing is a significant component of this course.
Prerequisites: EH 101 [Min Grade: C]

THR 226. Drawing and Rendering for the Theatre. 3 Hours.

Emphasis on rendering styles and drawing skills used in developing costume, scenic, and lighting designs. Studies in color theory, basic perspective, illustrating light source and figure drawing. Work in a variety of media and styles.

THR 230. Stage Management. 3 Hours.

The role and responsibilities of the stage manager for live theatrical events. Emphasis on managerial theory and practice.

THR 235. Analysis of Dramatic Literature. 3 Hours.

An examination of seminal dramatic works from the Ancient Greeks to the present day. Students will apply structural analysis to these works, focusing on their dramatic action, character development and language, in order to mine the ideas contained in them and determine how these ideas might be articulated to audiences in a live stage production.
Prerequisites: EH 101 [Min Grade: C]

THR 254. Intermediate Acting. 3 Hours.

Second part of a three part sequence. This course explores and applies the techniques of the acting process as prescribed in Constantin Stanislavaski's text, AN ACTOR PREPARES: given circumstances, character objectives, physical objectives, internal and external characterization techniques.
Prerequisites: THR 154 [Min Grade: C]

THR 258. Musical Theatre Performance I. 3 Hours.

This course offers an exploration of musical theatre performance by focusing on vocal production and historical style. Emphasis will be placed on specificity of performance, both vocally and physically, so that students will be able to accurately and successfully perform in different styles of musical theatre from early musicals through the 1960s. This course will also look at the relationship of the written vocal score to performance and the historical context of each piece.
Prerequisites: THR 154 [Min Grade: C]

THR 259. Musical Theatre Performance II. 3 Hours.

This course continues an exploration of musical theatre performance by focusing on vocal production and historical style. Emphasis will be placed on specificity of performance, both vocally and physically, so that students will be able to accurately and successfully perform in different styles of musical theatre from the 1970s through the present. This course will also look at the relationship of the written vocal score to performance and the historical context of each piece.
Prerequisites: THR 258 [Min Grade: C]

THR 261. Musical Theatre Showcase I. 1 Hour.

This course focuses on rehearsal and performance techniques through practical exploration of ensemble songs from assigned musical theatre selections leading to proficiency in performance skills and preparation for graduation and the profession.

THR 300. Exploring the African-American Creative Experience. 3 Hours.

Contributions of African Americans to theatre and dance. Creative process and application of creative process through live performance.
Prerequisites: THR 100 [Min Grade: C] or THR 200 [Min Grade: C] or THR 235 [Min Grade: C]

THR 306. Jazz III. 2 Hours.

Advanced study in Jazz technique and musicality with complex combinations and understanding of theatrical style. May be taken 3 times for a total of 6 hours.
Prerequisites: THR 206 [Min Grade: C]

THR 315. Playwriting II. 3 Hours.

Advanced Study and practicum in playwriting with emphasis on creating works for production and/or publication. Writing is a significant component of this course.
Prerequisites: THR 215 [Min Grade: C]

THR 316. Screenwriting II. 3 Hours.

Advanced study and practicum in writing feature-length screenplays, with emphasis on creating works for production, sale, and/or publication. May be repeated 1 time for a total of 6 hours.
Prerequisites: THR 216 [Min Grade: C]

THR 318. Stage Combat. 3 Hours.

Fighting for the stage and screen.

THR 323. Lighting Design. 3 Hours.

Exploration of the theory and practice of lighting design for live performance.
Prerequisites: THR 124 [Min Grade: C] and THR 210 [Min Grade: C] and THR 235 [Min Grade: C]

THR 325. Theatre Sound Design and Technology. 3 Hours.

Principles and practice of designing, engineering and propagating audio for live theatrical productions.

THR 326. Scenic Design. 3 Hours.

Exploration of the theory and practice of scene design for live performance.
Prerequisites: THR 210 [Min Grade: C] and THR 235 [Min Grade: C]

THR 327. Costume Design. 3 Hours.

Exploration of the theory and practice of costume design for live performance through individual projects and collaborative work. Basic principles of design, characterization and rendering techniques are emphasized.
Prerequisites: THR 210 [Min Grade: C] and THR 235 [Min Grade: C]

THR 343. Experimental Performance. 3 Hours.

This course explores alternative approaches to creating performance. In addition, the course focuses on the psychology of the actor and examines techniques to reduce performance anxiety. The work culminates in the creation of a solo piece.
Prerequisites: THR 154 [Min Grade: C]

THR 355. Advanced Acting. 3 Hours.

Advanced level class in actor training. Students will be introduced to specific period styles acting techniques for Shakespearean drama, restoration drama, and emerging changes for performance techniques in the plays of Henric Ibsen and Anton Chekhov.
Prerequisites: THR 202 [Min Grade: C] and THR 254 [Min Grade: C]

THR 360. Internship. 3 Hours.

Experience in non-academic theatre under supervision of professional staff. Interns may work in single area of specialty or in rotation throughout host theatre operation and may contract for single term or academic year.

THR 361. Musical Theatre Showcase II. 1 Hour.

This course focuses on rehearsal and performance techniques through practical exploration of duet scenes and songs from assigned musical theatre selections leading to proficiency in performance skills and preparation for graduation and the profession.
Prerequisites: THR 261 [Min Grade: C]

THR 365. Directing I. 3 Hours.

Basic principles of staging, picturization, composition, focus, and movement. Text analysis, directorial scoring, and actor/director dynamics.
Prerequisites: THR 210 [Min Grade: C] and THR 235 [Min Grade: C]

THR 377. Acting for the Camera. 3 Hours.

A study of acting techniques for film and television.

THR 401. NYC Showcase. 1-2 Hour.

Preparation of songs, monologues and scenes for presentation to casting directors and agents. Students enrolled in this course will be required to cover costs associated with travel to New York City.

THR 404. Advanced Production Practicum. 1-2 Hour.

Practical directed production experience in conjunction with actual production. Prior to taking THR 404, student must have completed the 3 required practicum credits. THR 204 and THR 404 may be repeated for a combined total of 8 credits.

THR 405. Advanced Performance Practicum. 1 Hour.

Practical directed performance experience in conjunction with actual production. Requires audition. Prior to taking THR 405, student must have completed the 3 required practicum credits. THR 205 and THR 405 may be repeated for a combined total of 8 hours.

THR 406. Special Topics in Dance. 1-3 Hour.

Specialized subjects in dance taught as opportunity allows. Musical Theatre major or Permission of Instructor.

THR 410. Production Participation. 0 Hours.

Directed experience in performance and production participation for a Theatre UAB production. Enrollment limited to Theatre and Musical Theatre majors and Theatre minors who have completed all required Production and Performance Practicum requirements. Requires permission of instructor.

THR 411. Contemporary Musical Theatre Dance Styles I. 2 Hours.

An advanced level of analysis and practice of contemporary musical theatre dance styles. Physical awareness, alignment, muscular tone, coordination, strength, and flexibility will be emphasized and analyzed for control and communication. There will be various styles introduced: Contemporary, Jazz, Street-Funk, House, Locking, and Hip-Hop.
Prerequisites: THR 206 [Min Grade: C]

THR 412. Contemporary Musical Theatre Dance Styles II. 2 Hours.

A continuation of Contemporary Musical Theatre Dance Styles I. An advanced level of analysis and practice of contemporary musical theatre dance styles reflecting the contemporary commercial musical theatre market. Physical awareness, alignment, muscular tone, coordination, strength, and flexibility will be emphasized and analyzed for control and communication. There will be various styles introduced: Contemporary, Jazz, Street-Funk, House, Locking, and Hip-Hop.
Prerequisites: THR 411 [Min Grade: C]

THR 420. Teaching Theatre in the Secondary School. 3 Hours.

Course provides the student with a complete understanding and utilization of the knowledge and skills needed to teach theatre at the secondary school level.

THR 425. Pattern Drafting. 3 Hours.

Students will learn garment terms, their application, and flat pattern techniques for garment development. The course requires 20 lab hours, in addition to regular class meetings.
Prerequisites: THR 125 [Min Grade: B]

THR 430. Auditioning. 3 Hours.

This course prepares the actor for graduate school and professional auditions. A working method is explored for the preparation of classical and contemporary audition pieces.
Prerequisites: THR 154 [Min Grade: C] and THR 202 [Min Grade: C]

THR 435. Dialects. 3 Hours.

Students will develop the knowledge and skills to describe and recreate oral postures, placement, and rhythms of various stage dialects.
Prerequisites: THR 202 [Min Grade: C]

THR 450. Costume History and Period Style for the Theatre. 3 Hours.

A selective study of clothing, architecture, furniture and decorative arts of different historical eras, with emphasis on popular theatrical eras and styles. Includes an examination of the societal, cultural, and economic influences which shape historical style.
Prerequisites: EH 102 [Min Grade: C] or EH 107 [Min Grade: C]

THR 451. Musical Theatre History and Script Analysis. 3 Hours.

Exploration of the origins and development of musical theatre, from the mid-18th century to the present day. Students will develop a critical sensitivity to the medium and will learn to analyze the music, plots, characters and situations of musical theatre.
Prerequisites: EH 102 [Min Grade: C] or EH 102 [Min Grade: C]

THR 455. Advanced Studio in Performance. 3 Hours.

Advanced exploration of special topics related to acting through performance including but not restricted to period styles, dialects, ensemble work, solo performance, or any other specialized genre.
Prerequisites: THR 154 [Min Grade: C]

THR 461. Musical Theatre Showcase III. 1 Hour.

This course focuses on rehearsal and performance techniques through practical exploration of scenes and solo songs from assigned musical theatre selections leading to proficiency in performance skills and preparation for graduation and the profession.
Prerequisites: THR 361 [Min Grade: C]

THR 462. Special Topics. 1-3 Hour.

Specialized subjects taught as opportunity allows.

THR 465. Directing II. 3 Hours.

Preparing performances. Director/actor communication in rehearsal, rehearsal motifs, rehearsal organization, and finishing production. Actual direction of one-act play for laboratory performance.
Prerequisites: THR 365 [Min Grade: C]

THR 470. Individual Project in Design and Production. 1-3 Hour.

Directed individual study in topics related to theatrical design and production. Individual Project in Design: The design of costumes, scenery, lighting, audio, or makeup for a mainstage production under the supervision of a faculty mentor. Individual Project in Production: Assume the position and execute the responsibilities of a specific production position, such as a cutter/draper or technical director, while under the supervision of a faculty mentor. Proposals for individual projects must be approved prior to registration.

THR 471. Advanced Studio in Scenery. 3 Hours.

Advanced exploration of special topics related to scenic design and production. May be repeated for credit.

THR 472. Advanced Studio in Costumes. 3 Hours.

Advanced exploration of special topics related to costume design and production. May be repeated for credit.

THR 473. Advanced Studio in Lighting. 3 Hours.

Advanced exploration of special topics related to lighting design and production. May be repeated for credit.

THR 474. Advanced Studio in Audio. 3 Hours.

Advanced exploration of special topics related to audio design and production. May be repeated for credit.
Prerequisites: THR 210 [Min Grade: C] and THR 235 [Min Grade: C] and THR 325 [Min Grade: C]

THR 481. Theatre History to 1860. 3 Hours.

An exploration of Western theatre from 500 B.C. to 1860 by focusing on the Classical, Medieval, Renaissance, Restoration, and Enlightenment periods. The original historical and performance contexts of plays written during the period will be considered to illuminate the cultural and political role of theatre through the ages. The class format includes lectures, class discussions, group exercises, and creative and research projects.
Prerequisites: THR 235 [Min Grade: C]

THR 482. Theatre History from 1860 to Present. 3 Hours.

An exploration of nineteenth and twentieth century Western theatre, focusing on Romanticism, Realism and Non-Realism. Also introduces students to the most popular forms of traditional non-Western theatre to explain their influence on the European avant-garde. Emphasis will be placed on seminal plays, theatre spaces and design, acting techniques, and directing styles. The class format includes lectures, class discussions, group exercises, and creative and research projects.
Prerequisites: THR 235 [Min Grade: C]

THR 491. Theatre Capstone. 2 Hours.

A synthesis experience for students as they apply what they have learned to a culminating collaborative project, define a personal philosophy of theatre and prepare themselves for the next steps after graduation by developing such items as a detailed career plan, resumes, and websites and learning about contracts, agents, taxes and other life strategies. Required for graduation in last year of residency.

THR 493. Musical Theatre Capstone. 2 Hours.

An exploration of the business of musical theatre including information about contracts, unions, agents/managers, casting directors, taxes and other life strategies in order to develop a specific plan for the next steps after graduation. Students prepare themselves for professional careers by developing such items as resumes, audition material, headshots and websites.

THR 496. Honors Project. 3 Hours.

Admission into the departmental honors program.

THR 499. Individual Studies. 1-3 Hour.

Directed individual study in theatre topics unrelated to design and production. Proposals for individual projects must be approved prior to registration. May be repeated for credit.

Faculty

Accetta, Valerie, Associate Professor, Head of Musical Theatre, 2013, B.A. (Otterbein), M.F.A. (Virginia Commonwealth)
Allison, Kelly, Professor of Theatre; Chair, Department of Theatre, 1998, B.F.A. (Stephens), M.F.A. (Minnesota)
Cannon, Joseph J., Assistant Professor of Theatre, 2004, B.A. (UAB), M.F.A. (Arizona)
Hall, Cheryl D., Assistant Professor of Theatre, 1989, B.A. (Southern Illinois), M.F.A. (Arizona)
Koskinen, Karla, Professor of Theater, 2007, B.A. (Marquette), M.F.A. (Illinois State)
Lightner, Roy, Associate Professor, 2017, B.M. (Oklahoma City), M.F.A. (Goddard)
McLernon, Dennis J., Professor of Theatre, Head of Performance, 2000, B.A. (Allentown), M.Ed. (Auburn-Montgomery), M.F.A. (Alabama-Alabama Shakespeare Festival)
Page, Amy, Assistant Professor of Theatre, 2014, B.A. (Winthrop), M.F.A. (North Carolina)
Schnormeier, Kimberly A., Associate Professor of Theatre, 1991, B.F.A. (Miami), M.F.A. (Northwestern)
Schwanke, Alan, Assistant Professor of Theatre, 2022, B.F.A. (Central Oklahoma), M.F.A. (Northwestern)
Shackleford, Lee, Associate Professor of Theatre, 2000, B.A. (UAB), M.F.A. (Southern Illinois)
Sosa, Santiago, Assistant Professor of Theatre, 2021, B.A. (Texas State), M.F.A. (Wisconsin)
Warner, Vessela, Associate Professor of Theater, 2007, M.A. (Sofia University, Bulgaria), M.F.A. (ABT) (National Conservatory of Theater, Bulgaria), Ph.D. (Washington)