Theatre Arts
Undergraduate Program Information
With strong emphases in acting, musical theater, new works and design/technical theatre, the program prepares students for graduate study, life in the profession, or a myriad of related job fields. Students gain practical experience through a wide array of courses designed to expose them to the varied aspects and job positions involved in theatrical production. Practical experience is gained via work on our public productions. The faculty is augmented by nationally-renowned guest theatre artists.
A minimum of 62 credits with a grade of C- or higher in theatre arts is required for the major. Theatre Arts does not require a second language.
Students enrolled in this department’s major or minor may count credits in required applied courses toward their degrees beyond the normal maximum of 9 credits allowed in the College of Arts and Sciences. However, if a student changes the major or does not complete the requirements for the minor at the time of graduation, they may only count a maximum of 9 credits of the applied credits toward graduation.
Students preparing to teach in public schools may qualify for certification by completing the Bachelor of Science in Education degree with theatre arts as a teaching field. (See curricula in the College of Health, Education & Social Transformation section).
At any time the Theatre Arts program may be undergoing curriculum changes. For the most up-to-date information about degree requirements please visit https://theatre.nmsu.edu/ or visit the Theatre Arts Department in room 318 in the ASNMSU Center for the Arts Building on University Ave at Espina.
Professor, Wil Kilroy, Department Head/Managing Director
Associate Professors: Hamilton, Lury Assistant Professors: Hermanson, Krohn, Striebel College Assistant Professor: Masters Adjunct Professors: Bardy, Fredrickson, Mojica Emeritus: Brunson, Storm Professional Staff: Carruthers, Davila, Wilkinson Office Staff: Perez-Wright
Theatre Arts Courses
THEA 1110G. Introduction to Theatre
3 Credits (3)
This course provides an introduction to the study of theatre. Students will examine various components that comprise theatre, such as acting, directing, playwriting, dramaturgy, scenic and costume design, stagecraft, spectatorship, history, theory, and criticism.
Learning Outcomes
- Define and discuss basic theater terms and concepts.
- Discuss the fundamental elements of theatre, and the ways in which theatre differs from other art forms.
- Analyze and critique the elements of a live theatrical production.
- Identify and describe the roles of various theatre artists including actors, directors, playwrights, dramaturges, and designers.
THEA 1210G. Acting for Non-Majors
3 Credits (3)
This class gives non-majors experience in the depth and craft of the actor’s art. Students will learn various terms, techniques, and practices of acting and will demonstrate their understanding in class. Through exercises and improvisations, partnered scenes, and group work, students will be better able to appreciate the work of others as they learn techniques of performing. May be repeated up to 3 credits.
Learning Outcomes
- Develop fundamental physical, vocal, analytical, and imaginative skills for acting for the stage.
- Apply fundamental techniques of voice and movement for the stage.
- Apply principles of play text analysis to understand story, character, and meaning.
- Gain a better understanding of an actor's approach to goals, tactics, and obstacles.
- Engage in character creation and development while preparing and performing monologues and scenes.
- Learn a common vocabulary to help discuss the process of acting.
- Employ collaborative methods of work with a partner and in groups.
- Observe and evaluate acting skills of other actors.
- Increase verbal and physical communication skills which are applicable in any field. 1
- Develop personal and social responsibility via group work, research and self-reflection. 1
- Increase confidence and self-esteem via continuous presentations with supportive feedback.
THEA 1221. Beginning Acting
3 Credits (3)
Basic understanding of self-expression through a variety of physical exercises, improvisation, and character study, culminating in scene or monologue work. Restricted to: THTR majors.
Learning Outcomes
- Apply a common vocabulary that serves as a foundation in acting for the theatre major and minor
- Communicate effectively in front of an audience, applying learned concepts while exercising freedom and control of voice, body, and imagination
- Analyze the written character and live performance
- Provide objective feedback to your classmate’s work as well as your own, that supports a greater understanding of our craft while building trust within the collaborative ensemble
THEA 1222. Stage Movement
3 Credits (3)
Physical techniques for the actor to develop kinesthetic awareness and skills in characterization, archetypes, and stage combat. Restricted to: THTR majors.
Learning Outcomes
- To provide fundamental training in a variety of movement techniques which can be applied to both theatrical performance and physical communication in everyday life.
- Observation and critical skills will be advanced through class participation and outside assignments
- Class exercises are aimed at guiding participants to uncover their own creative expression, while working with efficient, healthy body alignment
THEA 1223. The Art of Theatre
3 Credits (3)
This course introduces the variety and scope of theatre professions, the value and goals of the theatre major and an analysis of the art form from script to stage. Restricted to: Required for THTR majors majors.
Learning Outcomes
- An overview of the history of theatre in the Western world
- A general understanding of the artistic roles and functions within the theatre industry (including within NMSU Theatre as a model)
- A strong preparation for independent in-depth script analysis and theatre critique
THEA 1310. Introduction to Costuming
3 Credits (3)
This course introduces students to basic skills generally used in creating costumes for theatre. During the semester students will be introduced to the costume shop, equipment, supplies, and processes. They will learn the process of sewing a garment and running a stage production.
Prerequisite(s)/Corequisite(s): THEA 1310L. Restricted to: THTR majors.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate basic hand and machine sewing skills.
- Use basic costume craft tools and techniques.
- Analyze fabric selection for the stage.
- Draft and use patterns.
- Take body measurements for patterning and construct a costume from those measurements.
- Combine interpersonal communication skills with costume construction skills.
- Analyze a script for costume design purposes.
- Build a garment.
THEA 1310L. Costume Craft Lab
1 Credit (1)
Class members will assist in construction for productions in a studio environment.
Prerequisite(s)/Corequisite(s): THEA 1310.
Learning Outcomes
THEA 1415. Running Crew I
2 Credits (1+2P)
Students learn about backstage and front of house production positions and work on a technical aspect of a product in a rehearsal and performance environment.
Learning Outcomes
- Students will learn one, or more, of the basic technical elements of theatrical crew work.
THEA 2310. Stagecraft
3 Credits (3)
Student will explore basic skills for scenic designers and techniques of set construction for the stage, including building scenery, rigging, painting and properties.
Prerequisite(s)/Corequisite(s): THEA 2310L.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate a range of technical skills, which will qualify them to assist in the basic technical production of a play.
- Demonstrate and apply how to safely and competently use hand tools, power tools, electrical, and electronic stage equipment.
- Analyze the technical aspects of a play in performance.
- Read and construct scenery from ground plans, elevations, and drawings.
- Analyze a script from the perspective of a designer, artistic, and/ or technical director.
THEA 2310L. Stagecraft Laboratory
1 Credit (1)
Class members will assist with construction for productions in a studio environment.
Prerequisite(s)/Corequisite(s): THEA 2310.
Learning Outcomes
- History of scenic design and the development of present day stage design.
- How to create and interpret basic scenic ground plans, elevations, and detail drawings.
- To construct basic scenic structures to include flats and platforms.
- Various techniques of scenic painting and decorating.
- The installations of theatre lighting instruments and sound equipment.
THEA 2340. Introduction to Design
3 Credits (3)
Introduction into our visual world via the language of designers, focusing on collaboration, creative thinking and presentation skills. The varied design professions in theatre and the performing arts will be explored. Restricted to: Required of all THTR Majors.
Learning Outcomes
- Apply design vocabulary and descriptions when speaking about design.
- Identify design tools and make choices about where to use them.
- Apply the foundation information in understanding how design tools work.
- Apply correct terminology in assessing design and script analysis.
- Read and understand some of the design documents commonly used in the industry.
THEA 2415. Running Crew II
1 Credit (1)
Students learn about backstage and front of house production positions and work on a technical aspect of a product in a rehearsal and performance environment.
Learning Outcomes
- To provide students with “hands on” experience participating in being a member of a running crew on a theatrical production.
- Students will learn one, or more, of the basic technical elements of theatrical crew work.
THEA 2421. Vocal Production for the Actor
3 Credits (3)
Exploration and development of the actor's vocal instrument, including relaxation, projection, diction and articulation.
Learning Outcomes
- Apply concepts of alignment, relaxation, breath support, resonance, projection, and articulation for your personal and professional benefit.
- Refine vocal 'problem solving' which will carry into your personal and professional life.
- Apply vocal concepts to a variety of text in order to understand and appreciate your voice and its capabilities, both intellectually and sensorially.
- Apply the vocal/speech tools consciously and behavior-ally, as an aid in the search for musicality of the voice in conjunction with truth and believability.
THEA 2993. Theatre Workshop I
0.5 Credits (.5)
Required for all freshman and sophomore theatre majors, this course coordinates all processes within Theatre Arts, providing a forum for discussion and feedback. May be repeated up to 4 credits. Restricted to Las Cruces campus only.
Learning Outcomes
- This lab course is designed to create community via group meetings with your peers while providing a platform for our guest artists to present information regarding our profession.
- As time allows, group discussions and sharing will further the sense of community and collaboration with your peers.
- This forum also provides an opportunity to discuss and provide feedback for each production in the ASTC season.
THEA 2996. Theatre Topics
1-3 Credits (1-3)
Specific subjects to be announced in the Schedule of Classes. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits.
Learning Outcomes
- Varies
THEA 300. Theatre Workshop II
0.5 Credits (.5)
Required for all junior and senior theatre majors, this course coordinates all processes within Theatre Arts, providing a forum for discussion and feedback. May be repeated up to 4 credits. Restricted to Las Cruces campus only.
THEA 303. Theatre History I
3 Credits (3)
History of theatre and drama from ancient Greece to the English Renaissance.
THEA 304. Theatre History II
3 Credits (3)
History of theatre and drama from the Restoration to the 20th century. May be repeated up to 3 credits.
THEA 305. Advanced Vocal Production
3 Credits (.3)
Advanced exploration and development of the actor's vocal instrument. May be repeated up to 3 credits.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 2421.
THEA 306. Script Analysis
3 Credits (3)
This class is designed to give you tools and specific processes to help you read and break down a text, so that you can make it come alive for audiences in the varied genres of theatre, film and animation.
Learning Outcomes
- Determine the dramatic structure of a script
- Write an analysis of a script for production
- Verbally communicate an analysis of a script for production
- Analyze a script from a specific perspective such as actor, director, designer, animator, etc.
THEA 307V. Society in Style: Fashion, History and Culture
3 Credits (3)
History of clothing for theatrical purposes, origins and evolution of period clothing in relation to social, political, and aesthetic factors of different periods.
THEA 308. Creative Writing: Playwriting
3 Credits (3)
Technique of one-act playwriting, and analysis of dramatic structure. Crosslisted with: ENGL 308
Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1110G.
THEA 310. Styles in Acting
3 Credits (3)
Analysis of differing styles of acting through scene work representing various time periods and genres. Consent of Instructor required. May be repeated up to 3 credits.
Prerequisite: THEA 1221 or THEA 1210 with a C- or better.
THEA 311. Acting for Film and Television
3 Credits (3)
Specific techniques of acting for the camera are explored via hands-on experiential learning and an introduction to the business of the TV/Film industry
Prerequisite(s): THEA 1221 or THEA 1210 or permission of instructor.
THEA 313. Improvisation
3 Credits (3)
Long and/or short form improvisation techniques in addition to a variety of exercises exploring terminology, character work and the elements of comedy.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 1210 or THEA 1221.
THEA 315. Theatre in New York City
3 Credits (3)
Students are introduced to the professional world of theatre via productions, speakers, and tours during this travel course. May be repeated up to 6 credits.
Learning Outcomes
- To gain insight into professional theatre by viewing and reviewing Broadway productions in NYC.
- To receive information about the business of theatre via guests who are theatre professionals.
- To become familiar with job opportunities backstage via guided tours of professional theatre spaces in New York.
THEA 317. Musical Theatre
3 Credits (3)
Acting class focused on developing and refining skills necessary for performing in musicals. May be repeated up to 9 credits.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 1221 or THEA 1210 with a C- or better.
THEA 323. American Drama
3 Credits (3)
Masterworks of American drama from the 20th century to the present. Crosslisted with: ENGL 323.
THEA 324. Singing for Musical Theatre
3 Credits (3)
Students will gain an understanding of stronger vocal health, aural skills, and rehearsal practice strategies as they work on musical theatre singing techniques and performances including solos, duets and small groups, and a final public showcase.
Learning Outcomes
- The ability to practice strong vocal habits in order to independently maintain vocal health.
- Identify and utilize proper vocal warm-up techniques.
- Display an improved level of music reading and aural awareness.
- Analyze and break down a piece of theatrical music into components for focused learning.
- Perform pieces of music theatre both individually and in a group with increased ease
THEA 330. Special Topics: Variable
3 Credits (3)
Specific subjects to be announced in the Schedule of Classes.
Learning Outcomes
- To gain knowledge and/or skill in a specialty area of theatre
THEA 334. Introduction to Stage Makeup
3 Credits (3)
Basic principles of stage makeup: straight, character, and specialty. Includes study of various products, methods of application, and the effects of lighting on makeup.
THEA 337. Independent Study
1-3 Credits (1-3)
Students propose and design their own course not covered through regular course offerings under the guidance of faculty. Consent of Instructor required. May be repeated up to 6 credits.
THEA 341. Scene Painting
3 Credits (3)
Use of historical painting techniques in a project-driven classroom. Projects include 2-D and 3-D work, color mixing and theory, painting scenery, and the use of paint for effects.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 2310.
THEA 343. Costume Patterning
3 Credits (3)
Basic techniques in the production of flat patterns for modern and period silhouettes including some draping techniques. Consent of Instructor required. May be repeated up to 3 credits.
Learning Outcomes
- Advanced training in costume design; the ability to create an original pattern in order to be able to make a costume item that is original
THEA 345. Costume Practicum
1 Credit (1)
A practical course intended to provide students additional experience and greater responsibility within the workings of the Costume Shop. May be repeated up to 1 credits.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 1310.
THEA 346. Scenic Practicum
1 Credit (1)
A practical course intended to provide students additional experience and greater responsibility within the workings of the Scene Shop. May be repeated up to 2 credits. Graded: S/U Grading (S/U, Audit).
Prerequisite(s): THEA 2310.
THEA 347. Lighting Practicum
1 Credit (1)
A practical course intended to provide students hands-on experience executing theatrical lighting.
THEA 348. Running Crew III
1 Credit (1)
Students will work on a technical aspect of a production in a rehearsal and performance environment.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 1415.
THEA 349. Running Crew IV
1 Credit
Students will work on a technical aspect of a production in a rehearsal and performance environment.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 1415.
THEA 352. Costume Design
3 Credits (3)
Basic principles of costume design, including script analysis, principles of design, drawing and painting.
THEA 353. Scene Design
3 Credits (3)
Design for the performing arts. Basic design skills and projects to exercise those skills, history of design in the theatre and the designer's role in the production process. Final project includes a finished scene design.
Prerequisite: THEA 2310 or consent of instructor.
THEA 354. Sound Design
3 Credits (3)
Hands-on training in theatrical sound design and implementation.
THEA 355. Lighting Design
3 Credits (3)
Basic aspects of theatre lighting, including electricity, color theory, history, and types of lighting instruments.
THEA 356. Theatre Production
1-3 Credits
Participation in the production of theatrical performances by stage managing, acting, designing, dramaturgy, or directing. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits. Graded S/U.
THEA 357. Computer Scenographics
3 Credits (3)
Project-oriented course teaching basic computer modeling skills. Projects focus on the creation of communication tools designers use in the theatrical process. Students will develop portfolios of completed projects. Consent of instructor required.
THEA 366. Summer Theatre
1-3 Credits
Experience in professional or academic summer theatre. May be repeated for a maximum of 3 credits. Graded: S/U. Restricted to THTR majors.
Prerequisite(s): Consent of department head.
THEA 384. Stage Management
3 Credits (3)
Study of stage management techniques and their application to play production. A working knowledge of union rules, and the procedure to facilitate these through proper communication skills.
THEA 395. Directing I
3 Credits (3)
Study and application of basic stage directing techniques.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 1210 or THEA 1221.
THEA 408. Shakespeare I
3 Credits (3)
Study in Shakespeare’s early poems and plays. Repeatable for up to six credits under different subtitles.
Learning Outcomes
- Analyze Shakespeare’s poetry using the methods of close reading
- Demonstrate ability to read and develop persuasive literary-critical interpretations of Shakespeare’s poems and plays;
- Demonstrate skill in working with relevant secondary resources and research tools including the MLA bibliography to write a research paper on a topic related to our course material;
- Work effectively in small groups to interpret a scene through performance
THEA 409. Shakespeare II
3 Credits (3)
Study in Shakespeare's later plays. ENGL 408 is not a prerequisite. Repeatable for up to six credits under different subtitles. Crosslisted with ENGL 409.
Learning Outcomes
- Analyze Shakespeare’s poetry using the methods of close reading;
- Demonstrate ability to read and develop persuasive literary-critical interpretations of Shakespeare’s poems and plays;
- Demonstrate skill in working with relevant secondary resources and research tools including the MLA bibliography to write a research paper on a topic related to our course material;
- Work effectively in small groups to interpret a scene through performance.
THEA 410. Advanced Acting: Contemporary Methods
3 Credits (3)
Acting techniques will be explored focusing on current trends in the profession, from Stanislavski, to Hagen to Meisner. May be repeated up to 3 credits. Consent of Instructor required. Restricted to: THTR majors.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 1210 or THEA 1221.
THEA 414. Collaborative Theatre-Making
3 Credits (3)
This course introduces students to the techniques, skills and practice of the collaborative creation of new theatrical material.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 1221.
THEA 417. Musical Theatre II
3 Credits (3)
A continuation of THEA 317, allowing for more advanced musical theatre techniques.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 317.
THEA 430. Special Topics
1-3 Credits
Specific subjects to be announced in the Schedule of Classes. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits.
THEA 435. Directed Reading
1-3 Credits
Directed individualized studies. May be repeated for a maximum of 3 credits.
THEA 439. Senior Seminar
3 Credits (3)
Course preparing students for professions in and related to the theatre. Restricted to: THTR majors.
THEA 450. The Michael Chekhov Acting Intensive
3 Credits (3)
An intensive overview of the performance techniques attributed to Michael Chekhov, applied to theatrical scenes and presentations. May be repeated up to 6 credits. Consent of Instructor required.
THEA 535. Directed Study
1-3 Credits (1-3)
For the highly motivated student. Independent projects and individual guidance. Graduate standing and consent of instructor required. May be repeated up to 6 credits.
Name: Wil Kilroy, Department Head
Office Location: ASNMSU Center for the Arts, Room 321
Phone: (575) 646-5122
Website: https://theatre.nmsu.edu/