Program Overview
The Theatre program at York College of Pennsylvania is a pre-professional B.A. program that combines academic and practical theatre studies. It emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, and hands-on experience through stage production involvement. The program prepares students for diverse careers in the theatre industry, including acting, directing, design, and management.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Theatre program at York College of Pennsylvania is a pre-professional B.A. program designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the theatre industry. The program emphasizes a blend of academic and practical theatre studies, fostering individualized learning in a vibrant community of students, faculty, and professionals. The program's curriculum focuses on developing critical thinking skills, broadening theatrical perspectives, and offering hands-on experience through stage production involvement.
Objectives:
- Equip students with a comprehensive understanding of theatre history, theory, and practice.
- Develop critical thinking and analytical skills through rigorous coursework and performance critiques.
- Foster collaborative and creative approaches to theatre production.
- Provide practical experience in various aspects of theatre, including stagecraft, performance, design, and management.
- Prepare students for professional careers in theatre or related fields.
Program Description:
The Theatre program at York College offers a holistic approach to theatre education, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application. Students participate in main stage productions, gaining experience in costume and prop design, stage combat, and dance. They also have the opportunity to work alongside theatre professionals in areas such as box office management, set construction, directing, and design.
Outline:
Program Content:
- Performance and Production: This core area focuses on developing skills in acting, directing, and technical theatre. Students gain hands-on experience in stagecraft, movement, scene study, and production management.
- Dramatic Literature: This area delves into the history and analysis of plays, exploring script analysis, dramaturgy, and theatre history. Students examine modern and contemporary drama, classical acting techniques, and playwriting.
- Design and Technology: This area focuses on design principles and their application in theatre production. Students learn about scene design, lighting design, costume design, and technical theatre practices.
- Theatre Electives: Students have the flexibility to choose from a variety of electives in theatre, art, creative writing, literature, and other related fields.
Program Structure:
The program consists of 120 credits, divided into General Education requirements, Theatre major requirements, and elective courses. Students complete a series of required courses in performance, production, dramatic literature, and design, followed by electives to personalize their learning experience.
Course Schedule:
The program offers a variety of courses throughout the year, with some courses offered in specific semesters. Students should consult the program's website or academic advisor for the most up-to-date course schedule.
Individual Modules:
- Performance and Production:
- Stagecraft (THE 121)
- Movement for the Stage (THE 150)
- Theatre Practicum (THE 152, 153, 252, 253, 352, 353)
- Acting (THE 215)
- Production Management (THE 221)
- Scene Study (THE 255)
- Arts Administration (THE 300)
- Principles of Design (THE 324)
- Theatre Directing (THE 363)
- Devised Theatre and Performance (THE 430)
- Special Topics in Theatre (THE 380, 381)
- Design in Practice (THE 421)
- Performance in Practice (THE 435)
- Theatre Internship (THE 450)
- Independent Study (THE 498)
- Dramatic Literature:
- Script Analysis and Dramaturgy (THE 291)
- Theatre History (THE 354)
- Modern & Contemporary Drama (THE 416)
- Playwriting (THE 275)
- Shakespeare I (LIT 323)
- Shakespeare II (LIT 324)
- Design and Technology:
- Scene Design (THE 320)
- Lighting Design (THE 321)
- Costume Design (THE 322)
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Coursework: Students are assessed through various methods, including assignments, exams, presentations, and performance critiques.
- Production Involvement: Students' participation in mainstage productions is evaluated based on their contributions, skills, and overall performance.
- Independent Study/Internship: Students completing an independent study or internship are assessed based on their research, project outcomes, and professional development.
Assessment Criteria:
- Technical Proficiency: Students are evaluated on their ability to apply technical skills in performance, design, and production.
- Critical Thinking and Analysis: Students are assessed on their ability to analyze plays, performances, and theatrical concepts.
- Creativity and Originality: Students are encouraged to develop their artistic vision and express themselves through innovative approaches.
- Collaboration and Teamwork: Students are assessed on their ability to work effectively with others in a collaborative environment.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Interactive Learning: The program emphasizes active participation through discussions, workshops, and hands-on experiences.
- Individualized Instruction: Faculty provide personalized attention and guidance to help students achieve their academic and artistic goals.
- Guest Speakers and Workshops: The program invites industry professionals to share their expertise and provide insights into the theatre world.
Faculty:
The program boasts a dedicated faculty of experienced theatre professionals with expertise in various areas of performance, design, and playwriting. The faculty are committed to providing a supportive and stimulating learning environment.
Unique Approaches:
- Production-Based Learning: The program integrates practical experience with coursework, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world productions.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The program encourages collaboration with other departments, such as art, music, and creative writing, to broaden students' perspectives and enhance their creative expression.
- Community Engagement: The program actively engages with the local community through outreach programs and performances.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Actor
- Director
- Playwright
- Stage Manager
- Technical Director
- Lighting Designer
- Sound Designer
- Costume Designer
- Theatre Educator
- Arts Administrator
Opportunities and Outcomes:
The program prepares students for a wide range of careers in the theatre industry and related fields. Graduates have gone on to work in professional theatre companies, regional theaters, educational institutions, and arts organizations.
- The program offers opportunities for students to study abroad and participate in summer theatre programs.
- The program hosts a variety of events and workshops throughout the year, including guest lectures, masterclasses, and student performances.
