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Catalog Description 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 during rehearsals and performances. CSLO #2: Demonstrate ability to follow stage blocking and effective movement. CSLO #3: Demonstrate concentration, relaxation and stage presence during rehearsals and performances. CSLO #4: Demonstrate effective stage volume and diction. Effective Term Fall 2026 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: During table work rehearsals, students will critically analyze their character's backstory and relationships to other characters. 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: Instructor will explain artistic concept of the production by showing a model of the set design and costume renderings. Students will discuss their initial thoughts of how the concept and designs affect their character and pose questions for cast discussion. The instructor will introduce pre-blocking plans for stage movement in relation to the set and other characters. Students will then demonstrate ability to take that pre-blocking direction and where applicable add their own ideas to rehearse movement and positioning on the set. Distance Learning Instructor will post a lecture and a discussion post to explain 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 scenes from the play being performed that term 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 When confronted with traffic pattern challenges on and off stage, students will work out solutions to help create a smooth stage picture and technically effective approach to movement that is comfortable and safe to all actors and backstage crew. Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.) 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: 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: Foundations for Performance Training Skills for the Actor-Dancer Author: Cara Harker Publisher: Routledge Publication Date: 2022 Text Edition: 1st Classic Textbook?: OER Link: OER: Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.

The Theatre Arts Department offers training, both theoretical and practical, in theatrical production, including performance, technical and business management aspects, as well as the serious study of the development of those aspects from the early Greeks up to the bright lights of Broadway. We believe that the creativity, the personal interaction and the excitement of participating in a performance are highly valuable experiences for any individual. The heightened awareness of beauty and truth are carried on into the later life of the student to perhaps enable him or her to appreciate more fully what is available.