Spring 2013 Topic Course Descriptions

Department of Theatre & Dramatic Arts - Spring 2013

Course Descriptions That Do Not Appear in the Calendar

Drama 3341 – Choreography in Context

Designed for dancers and non-dancers alike, this course offers practice in making movement compositions, using tools of dance-making within play scripts (for example, where the stage directions read "they dance") and in custom designing movement work for and with particular communities and particular audiences (for example youth, special needs populations, seniors, schools).

Prerequisites: One of Drama 2340 or Drama 2341 [as per calendar]

Drama 3821 – Costume Construction

An introduction to the materials, equipment, skills and methods commonly used in theatrical costume construction. The course utilizes a hands on format to develop a thorough knowledge of sewing skills and alteration of patterns or garments. Students will work on a combination of contemporary and period construction techniques.

Prerequisites: Drama 2810 Stagecraft or previous sewing experience

Drama 3845 – Scenic Design for Theatre

This course will explore a variety of approaches to scenic design concentrating on three dimensional exploration.

Prerequisites: Drama 2100, 2825 and 3827

Drama 3850 – Advanced Voice for Actors

An in-depth study of the voice with and emphasis on vocal improvisation and voice acting.
Prerequisites: Drama 3320 AND 15 university courses

Drama 3850 – Aboriginal Drama/Theatre and the Role of the Aboriginal Woman

The course will concentrate on how Aboriginal women have understood – and used – the power of theatre & performance for the purpose of intervention, awareness raising, and empowerment (social, political, and personal). We will explore a variety of topical matters involving and affecting Aboriginal women –both on a local and national level. We will consider the theatricality and performance of public and political demonstrations, from the annual Sisters in Spirit vigil movement to the work of Indigenous performance artist Rebecca Belmore to the three female members of the Blood tribe who stood their ground to stop the hydraulic fracturing on their traditional territory. We will read and discuss a number of recognized Canadian Aboriginal plays in which the female is front and centre, such as George Ryga’s The Ecstasy of Rita Joe, Yvette Nolan’s Annie-Mae’s Movement, Tomson Highway’s The Rez Sisters, and Marie Clements’ The Unnatural and Accidental Women. We will also be looking at – and hearing from – local playwrights, artists, and activists such as Ramona Big Head (her play “Strike Them Hard!”: The Baker Massacre Story) and many other Blackfoot women who have made – and continue to make – significant artistic contributions in the performing arts (Olivia Tailfeathers, Mary Ann Crow Healy, Jamie Medicine Crane, Charlene Hellson, and more). I am hoping students will be inspired to pursue an optional creative project as the final class assignment.

Prerequisites: 15 university-level courses (a minimum of 45.0 credit hours).

Drama 4850 – Theatre in Professional Contexts

An examination of theatre in professional contexts, including an investigation of organizational models, funding structures, grant programs, and professional affiliations.

Corequisite: Drama 3130 Canadian Theatre