Catalog Description

Formerly known as DRMA 12B, DRMA 23A
Hours: 120 activity
Description: The first of four courses that provides an opportunity for students to perform in their first role in a Sierra College production as a member of the cast. Students develop fundamental rehearsal and performance techniques. All actors are required to audition for roles. Acceptance into the class is determined on being cast in the production. (C-ID THTR 191) (CSU, UC)

Course Student Learning Outcomes

  • CSLO #1: Accurately memorize and deliver lines in front of an audience in performance.
  • CSLO #2: Demonstrate ability to follow stage blocking and effective movement.
  • CSLO #3: Demonstrate concentration, relaxation and stage presence during a performance.
  • CSLO #4: Demonstrate effective stage volume and diction.

Effective Term

Spring 2021

Course Type

Credit - Degree-applicable

Contact Hours

120

Outside of Class Hours

60

Total Student Learning Hours

180

Course Objectives

1. Accurately and appropriately memorize and deliver lines.
2. Accurately execute stage movement as assigned through blocking.
3. Demonstrate necessary focus and concentration to publicly perform a theatrical work.
4. Demonstrate ability to work creatively and collaboratively as a member of a theatrical ensemble.
5. Demonstrate ability to analyze a theatrical text from a character's point of view.
6. Demonstrate concentration, relaxation & authenticity on stage; complete performance without breaking character.
7. Make appropriate vocal and physical choices.

General Education Information

  • Approved College Associate Degree GE Applicability
    • CSU GE Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU approval)
      • Cal-GETC Applicability (Recommended - Requires External Approval)
        • IGETC Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU/UC approval)

          Articulation Information

          • CSU Transferable
          • UC Transferable

          Methods of Evaluation

          • Classroom Discussions
            • Example: The student will critically evaluate the rehearsal and performance process with the entire company following termination of the play. Students will be graded on the following criteria: level of participation, detail of analysis, and supported examples.
          • Skill Demonstrations
            • Example: Student will rehearse and demonstrate skill and ability to take direction, memorize lines and apply character choices for a play performance.

          Repeatable

          No

          Methods of Instruction

          • Activity
          • Distance Learning

          Activity:

          1. Instructor will explain artistic concept of the production and show model of the set design as well as costume and other design applications. Students will discuss their initial thoughts of character and pose questions for cast discussion.
          2. The instructor will lead and demonstrate for students the stage blocking and relation to set and other characters prior to blocking rehearsal where students will rehearse movement and positioning on the set.

          Distance Learning

          1. Instructor will post on the LMS and discuss dramaturgical research materials and steps to approaching building character applying appropriate techniques to work remotely on a role for either a virtual or hybrid production. Virtual rehearsals and performances will be handled over video conferencing.

          Typical Out of Class Assignments

          Reading Assignments

          1. Read and study assigned scenes in preparation for on stage rehearsal. 2. Read supplemental materials relating to the time and location of the play, as well as other relevant background research.

          Writing, Problem Solving or Performance

          1. Write a detailed character back story outlining your characters' background based on clues provided text. 2. Orally summarize and discuss character development. 3. Develop character relationships. 4. Actively participate in a critical evaluation of the process following the termination of the play.

          Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.)

          1. Memorize assigned lines/dialogue for part. 2. Practice assigned stage movement. 3. Assemble Character research.

          Required Materials

          • The Actor's Guide to Creating a Character
            • Author: William Esper and Damon Dimarco
            • Publisher: Anchor Books
            • Publication Date: 2014
            • Text Edition:
            • Classic Textbook?: No
            • OER Link:
            • OER:
          • Time Stands Still
            • Author: Donald Margulies
            • Publisher: Theater Communications Group, Inc.
            • Publication Date: 2010
            • Text Edition: 1st
            • Classic Textbook?: No
            • OER Link:
            • OER:
          • Being An Actor
            • Author: Callow, Simon
            • Publisher: Penguin
            • Publication Date: 2003
            • Text Edition:
            • Classic Textbook?: No
            • OER Link:
            • OER:
          • Acting Characters: 20 Simple Steps From Rehearsal to Performance
            • Author: Paul Elsam
            • Publisher: Methuen Drama
            • Publication Date: 2011
            • Text Edition:
            • Classic Textbook?: No
            • OER Link:
            • OER:
          • The Actor's Book
            • Author: Donna Tollefson
            • Publisher: Kendall/Hunt Publishing
            • Publication Date: 2007
            • Text Edition: 1st
            • Classic Textbook?: No
            • OER Link:
            • OER:

          Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.