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Courses - Fall 2024
THET
Theatre Department Site
Open Seats as of
12/06/2024 at 09:30 AM
THET110
Introduction to the Theatre
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
GenEd: DSHU
In the age of pop music and blockbuster films, of memes and viral videos, we often forget that theatre was one of the original forms of popular entertainment. We will focus on theatre practitioners including actors, directors, designers and backstage personnel to understand how theatre is produced. We will also consider popular entertainment in Europe and America, with a particular focus on musical theatre and Broadway to explore how theatre communicates, resonates, and remains relevant to all audiences.
THET116
(Perm Req)
Fundamentals of Theatrical Design
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Restriction: Permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
Examines theatre as an environmental art that is realized through collaboration between set, costume, and lighting designers.
Students must pay a $25.00 lab fee.
THET120
(Perm Req)
Introduction to Acting
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Restriction: Must not be in Theatre program.
Through scene study, exercises, and improvisation, an appreciation is developed for the working habits of actors, which will aid them in rehearsal as well as performance.
Enrollment for students with less than 60 credits will be prioritized.

For permission email Susan Miller at smille13@umd.edu
THET222
(Perm Req)
Foundations of Acting and Performance
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Restriction: Permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
Students will become familiar with the tools and process of acting through the discipline of acting exercises, analyzing character and performing. Students will research various theatre artists that have contributed to the acting process. Through monologue and scene work students will learn listening skills, communicative, collaborative and embodiment skills and will learn how to use the self in the imaginative process and research. And, most importantly, students will learn creative process through practice.
Students must pay a $25.00 lab fee.
THET223
(Perm Req)
Text and Context in Western Theatre
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Restriction: Permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
Introduction to the analysis and critique of the play script. Students will have the opportunity to read, analyze, and interpret western dramatic literature from a range of periods and styles. Texts are analyzed from a variety of theatrical analytical perspectives, with an eye towards choices theatre artists must make in the creation of a theatrical production.
THET274
Introduction to Stage Management
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: THET114 or TDPS201; and permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
Familiarization with the techniques and skills required of a Stage Manager in a theatrical production, including organization, production meetings, rehearsals, tech and running a show. The outcome at the conclusion of the course is the ability to function as an Assistant Stage Manager in a supervised situation.
THET284
(Perm Req)
Stage Costume Construction I
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Restriction: Permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
Study and practical experience in garment construction and related costume crafts as used in theatre costume design. Flat pattern development, corset construction, theatrical sewing techniques and organization of the costume construction process.
Students must pay a $25 lab fee
THET285
The Art of Communication and Presentation
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
GenEd: FSOC
Credit only granted for: COMM107, COMM200, INAG110, JOUR130, or THET285.
An introduction to the fundamental practice and theory of public speaking and oral communication using theatrical techniques of both performance and the craft of storytelling.
THET286
(Perm Req)
Experiential Learning I
Credits: 1 - 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: THET222, THET223, and THET116. And THET114; or TDPS201. And permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
Introductory internship in theatre. Constructed to help students in their sophomore year gain practical experience in a supportive work environment in the theatre. Student must research and propose internship to a Faculty Advisor and Internship Venue.
THET287
Subversive Cultures and Performance
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F
GenEd: DSHS, SCIS
Credit only granted for: THET289I or THET287.
Formerly: THET289I.
Every society has rebels - those who refuse to conform to the mainstream's rigid rules, aesthetics, and beliefs. From unruly skateboarders, punk rockers, bohemian poets, and radical theater performers, to national revolutionary movements and brick-throwing anarchists - such groups form niches that are defined by their exclusion from society. We will look at how their beliefs and actions fit into a particular historical context, and how their actions drive social change.
THET293
Black Theatre and Performance I
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F
GenEd: DSHU or DSSP, DVUP
Thematic and historical survey of African-American drama from the late nineteenth century to the 1960s. Emphasis on sociopolitical context, thematic thrust, issues, styles, the aesthetic reflected in the work, impact on African-American and general theatre audiences.
THET310
(Perm Req)
Voice for the Actor I
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: THET116, THET222, THET223, and TDPS201; and must Interview; and permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
Restriction: Sophomore standing or higher.
Freeing the natural voice. In-depth experience of connection of actor's voice to thought, impulse and emotion. Tools for releasing tension, increasing resonance and range, and refining articulation will be explored.
Students must pay a $25.00 lab fee.
THET325
(Perm Req)
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Must have completed or be concurrently enrolled in THET310; or permission of Instructor. And must audition; and permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
Focus on use of self in creating character. Tools employed include decision-making and use of imagery, personalization, objectives, adjectives, and verbs.
Students must pay a $25.00 lab fee.
THET328L
Special Topics in Intermediate Theatre and Performance; Acting for Digital and Live Performance
Credits: 1 - 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
THET328O
Special Topics in Intermediate Theatre and Performance; Movement for the Actor
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Students must pay a $25 lab fee.

Students in this course will develop and refine their movement skills specifically for stage performance. Through a study of Viewpoints, Mask Work, Animal Work, Clown, Mime, and Laban Techniques students develop methods of artistic expression using their whole body. Students will also discover new connections to dialogue through movement and improve the condition of their instrument (body).
THET330
(Perm Req)
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: THET222, THET223, and THET116. And THET114; or TDPS201. And permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
Restriction: Junior standing or higher.
A lecture-laboratory course dealing with the techniques of coordinating, designing and guiding the production of a script through to performance. Study and practice in stage composition, movement, pacing, script and character analysis, and rehearsal routines. Emphasis on methods of communicating a script to an audience.
THET340
(Perm Req)
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: THET222, THET223, THET116, and TDPS201.
Restriction: Permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
Credit only granted for: THET340 or THET399P.
Formerly: THET399P.
Will introduce students to the art of playwriting through exploratory writing exercises, the reading of successful plays, the development of new short scripts, how to make theatrical choices, and how to use the six elements of storytelling.
THET351
(Perm Req)
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Credit only granted for: THET351 or THET328M.
Formerly: THET328M.
An introduction for students interested in developing their skills with musical theatre, specifically the work of the actor interpreting songs and text in musicals. With a primary focus on American Musical Theatre repertoire, students will prepare and present various solo, duet, and group numbers.
Students must pay a $25 lab fee.
THET371
(Perm Req)
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: THET222, THET223, and THET116; and (THET114; or TDPS201). Or permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
A study of design theory and style. Methods and techniques of coordination of all elements of scenic design for theatre.
THET380
(Perm Req)
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: THET116. And THET114; or TDPS201; or permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
Restriction: Sophomore standing or higher.
Theatre Sound Design is a first course in designing sound for stage productions.
Students must pa a $25 lab fee.
THET385
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: THET222, THET223, THET116, and TDPS201; and permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
Credit only granted for: THET399D or THET385.
Formerly: THET399D.
Focuses on learning the grammar and conceptual thinking behind multimedia design for live performance. Students will learn how our new multimedia tools can enhance the sense of liveness as well as explore the different ways in which technology can be implemented into preproduction thinking, rehearsal experimenting, and ultimately, effective use in performance.
THET386
(Perm Req)
Experiential Learning
Credits: 3 - 6
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F
Restriction: Junior standing or higher; and permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
THET390
(Perm Req)
History of Theatre I
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: Permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
The history of Western theatre from its origins in classical antiquity through the mid-seventeenth century with emphasis on plays and playwrights, architecture and decor, acting and costuming, and significant personalities. Includes explorations of interrelationships between Western theatre and the theatre of other cultures.
THET399
(Perm Req)
THET408U
Seminar: Theory and Performance Studies; Theatre About Show Business
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
THET465
History of Fashion for the Theatre
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: THET116; or permission of instructor.
Restriction: Sophomore standing or higher.
A survey of Western clothing from the Ancient Worlds through 20th Century. A discussion of the cultural contexts of various trends in fashion through an examination of art, industry and textiles.
THET471
Design Studio in Scenery
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: THET371; and permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
Jointly offered with THET639. Credit only granted for: THET471 or THET639.
Advanced study of scenic design for the theatre. Particular design projects will vary.
THET477
(Perm Req)
Design Studio in Lighting
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: THET377; and permission of ARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies department.
Jointly offered with THET659. Credit only granted for: THET477 or THET659.
Designed for students who have successfully completed THET377 and wish to further develop their lighting design skills. Emphasis is on theoretical design of productions and realized light lab projects. Particular design projects will vary.
Students must pay a $25 lab fee.
THET480
Advanced Sound Design
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: THET380 and permission of the School of Theatre, Dance, and Performance Studies.
Students will dive deeper into the technical elements of sound design, developing a working understanding of both software editing tools as well as the primary components of a live sound system.
THET481
(Perm Req)
Theatre Graphics II: Computer Assisted Design
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Prerequisite: THET114 or TDPS201; and THET116; and permission of ARHU-Theatre department.
Restriction: Sophomore standing or higher.
Study and practical application of computer generated graphical design for use in theatrical production.
Students must pay a $25 course fee.
THET489L
Special Topics in Theatre History from 1800 to Present; LGBTQ Theatre
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
THET499
(Perm Req)
Credits: 1 - 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Contact department for information to register for this course.
THET499B
(Perm Req)
Independent Study; Figure Drawing for Theatre Design
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, P-F, Aud
Students must pay a $25 lab fee
THET600
(Perm Req)
Introduction to Graduate Research Methods
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud
Restriction: Must be a graduate student in a Theatre program.
Also offered as: THET700.
Credit only granted for: THET600 or THET700.
Additional information: Only students in the doctoral program may register for THET700.
Basic skills in theatre research.
THET606
(Perm Req)
Credits: 1
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud
Strategies and materials for teaching a typical introductory course in theatre, with emphasis on specific problems of classroom instruction (e.g., creating a supportive climate, promoting active learning by students, constructing appropriate tests, adapting methods to content, and resolving discipline problems).
THET608F
Seminar: Theory and Performance Studies; Aesthetics of Collaboration in Performance: Theory & Practice
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud
This class offers practical methods for the creation and analysis of collaborative performance projects. Taking for granted that all performance works engage collaboration, this class is organized around themes of media, materiality, site-specificity, and working within and against systems. These themes are the organizing principles for student projects, as well as exemplary works of theory and performance. Finally, this class, being about collaboration, looks at strategies for working together, and carries with it an ethic of kindness, constructive critique, and mutual support.
THET608M
Seminar: Theory and Performance Studies; Theatre About Show Business
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud, S-F
THET633
Figure Drawing for Theatre Design
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud
Credit only granted for: THET633 or THET669F.
Formerly: THET669F.
Figure Drawing is designed to give students the necessary drawing skills that are required when drawing and painting for the theatre. We will study anatomy, figure/ground relationships, composition plotting and layout, planar value, light and shadow analysis, color theory and the fundamentals of perspective and how this applies to theatre design.
THET639
Graduate Design Studio - Scenery
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud
THET645
Graduate Rendering for Costume Design
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud
Credit only granted for: THET669R or THET645.
Formerly: THET669R.
Advance study in rendering techniques for theatrical design presentation.
THET649
Graduate Design Studio - Costume
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud
Students must pay a $25 course fee. Class is for First, Second, and Third Year MFA students.
THET659
Graduate Design Studio - Lighting
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud
Students must pay a $25 course fee. Contact instructor for days/times.
THET669
(Perm Req)
Credits: 1 - 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud, S-F
Contact department for information to register for this course.
THET669I
Independent Study; Sound Design
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud
THET669O
(Perm Req)
Independent Study; Graduate Lighting Design Studio II
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud
Students must pay a $25 lab fee.
THET669T
(Perm Req)
Independent Study; Theatre Graphics II: Computer Assisted Design
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud, S-F
Students must pay a $25 lab fee
THET669U
Independent Study; Arts Entrepreneurship: Theory and Practice
Credits: 1 - 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud
Credit only granted for TDPS458E or THET669U.

Based on social and arts entrepreneurship knowledge as well as contemporary professional practice, this class establishes arts entrepreneurship as a unique discipline with the goal of connecting creative initiatives (products, artforms, and programs) to audiences, resources, and communities. With a focus on the artist entrepreneur, this course introduces students to the ways in which creative initiatives both create value andoffer solutions to social, political, environmental, and cultural issues. Students will develop artist impact statements and identify different contexts and ways to apply their talents and creative initiatives in society.
THET680
History of Fashion for Theatre
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud
Credit only granted for: THET680 or THET669A.
Formerly: THET669A.
Evolution of clothing styles and materials through history, from early Mid-Eastern civilizations to the present day.
THET700
(Perm Req)
Introduction to Graduate Research Methods
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud
Restriction: Must be a graduate student in a Theatre program.
Also offered as: THET600.
Credit only granted for: THET600 or THET700.
Additional information: Only students in the doctoral program may register for THET700.
Basic skills in theatre research.
THET713
Performance Studies
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud, S-F
Prerequisite: THET700.
Introduces doctoral students to theoretical and methodological issues in performance studies. We will focus on 3 primary areas of research, analyzing representational strategies of adaptations, ethnography, and cultural analysis of theatrical performance.
THET788
(Perm Req)
Design for Live Performance Tutorial
Credits: 1 - 6
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud
Contact department for information to register for this course.
THET789
(Perm Req)
Theatre Design Process and Production
Credits: 3
Grad Meth: Reg, Aud
Contact department for information to register for this course.
THET799
(Perm Req)
MFA Theatre Design Thesis
Credits: 1 - 6
Grad Meth: S-F
Contact department for information to register for this course.
THET888
(Perm Req)
Doctoral Practicum in Theatre
Credits: 1 - 6
Grad Meth: Reg
Contact department for information to register for this course.
THET889
(Perm Req)
Doctoral Tutorial in Theatre
Credits: 1 - 6
Grad Meth: Reg
Contact department for information to register for this course.
THET898
(Perm Req)
Pre-Candidacy Research
Credits: 1 - 6
Grad Meth: Reg, S-F
Contact department for information to register for this course.
THET899
(Perm Req)
Doctoral Dissertation Research
Credits: 1 - 10
Grad Meth: S-F
Contact department for information to register for this course.