Musical Theatre
THEA – Theatre course descriptions
Faculty
Mathew Kelly (chair), Charles Adamson, Kate Kanne, Ron Rybkowski
Statement of philosophy
The Central College musical theatre program is committed to the development of our students as artist-citizens within the international art form of theatre. The curriculum provides a broad exposure to the theatre arts with majors eventually focusing on either a performance or design/ tech track. Theatre requires considerable collaboration and all students will be encouraged, over the course of their college career, to engage in every aspect of a production. Intellectual and artistic developments are carefully balanced within a production-oriented atmosphere.
Study Abroad Opportunities
Musical theatre students are encouraged to participate in study abroad and/or the Chicago program. Theatre courses are available in several of the European centers. Some of these courses apply directly to the major. Students should consult with the department faulty concerning such courses. Internship opportunities may also available.
Major Communication Skills
Successful acquisition of major communication skills, including oral and written work will be assessed through regular coursework, participation in mainstage and student-driven productions and close consultation with a student’s advisor. Additional coursework in other areas of the college that will support these essential theatrical skills will be encouraged
Musical Theatre Major Requirements (minimum 39 credits)
Note: Students who plan to major or minor in musical theatre will be expected to participate in co-curricular theatre programs.
1. Complete all of the following (30 credits):
THEA 150 Acting (3)
THEA 163 Stagecraft (4)
THEA 180 Theatre Practice (1)
THEA 250 Musical Theatre History (3)
THEA 258 Directing I (4)
THEA 265 Entertainment Management (3)
THEA 266 Theatrical Makeup Design (3)
THEA 280 Advanced Theatre Practice (1)
THEA 361 Designing for the Stage (4)
THEA 370 Script Analysis and Dramatic Literature (4)
2. Complete two of the following (4-7 credits):
For those interested in Design/ Tech
MUS 105 Music Fundamentals (3)
MUS 312 History of Western Music: Pre-Classical to 1940 (3)
For those interested in Acting/ Directing
(Must complete both MUS 215 and MUS 216.)
MUS 120 Theory and Aural Skills I (4)
MUS 236 Show Choir and Jazz Choir Techniques (2)
MUS 215 Piano for Proficiency (1)
MUS 216 Piano for Proficiency (1)
3. Complete one of the following (4 credits):
ART 151 2D Problem Solving (4)
ART 252 Painting Traditional and Digital Approaches (4)
4. Complete one of the following (3-4 credits)
ENGL 346 Discovering Shakespeare (3)
PHIL 270 Philosophy of Art (4)
THEA 267 Digital Media and Design with the Arts (3)
5. Pass a final portfolio review as determined by Musical Theatre faculty. This portfolio will be submitted at the beginning of a student’s final semester in preparation for the next stage of their professional career.
Musical Theatre Minor Requirements (20 credits) *also applies to current Theatre Minor
Complete a minimum of 20 credits of THEA courses that have been approved by the department. At least 3 credits must be at the 300-400 level.