DRAM 20 - Stagecraft

Transfer Status

CSU/UC

Unit(s)

3.00

• Activity: 102.00 Contact hours/51.00 Out of class hours/153.00 Total hours/3.00 Unit(s)
• Total: 102.00 Contact hours/51.00 Out of class hours/153.00 Total hours/3.00 Unit(s)

Course Description: An introduction to technical theatre and the creation of scenic elements. Includes basic concepts of design, painting techniques, set construction, set movement, prop construction, backstage organization, and career possibilities. May include stage management, lighting, and/or sound techniques.

Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:

1. Organize a basic scenic construction project, including reading plans, selecting materials, selecting tools, and working safely.
2. Recognize and use backstage and shop terminology, tools, materials and techniques.
3. Analyze scenic production problems; evaluate alternatives and recommend solutions.
4. Work collaboratively with designers, technicians, and other theatre personnel.
5. Recognize crew organization, hang and focus lights, record a sound effect, or set up a microphone.

Topic Titles / Suggested Time Topic

Lecture/Activity

1. Homework: Students are required to complete one hour of outside-of-class homework for every two hours of activity
2. Instructor Demonstrations
3. Reading Assignments

1. Exams/Tests
2. Quizzes
3. Research Projects
4. Projects
5. Written Assignments

Reading Assignments

1. Read and analyze a script to identify the technical theater needs for the production. Consider elements such as lighting, sound, set design, props, and special effects that will be necessary to bring the script to life on stage. Be prepared to engage in a class discussion where you will share your findings and discuss how these technical elements enhance or support the storytelling, offering specific examples from the script to support your points.
2. Read the assigned text, supplementary materials, and instructor handouts on safe backstage operations and organization. Be prepared to discuss key safety protocols, backstage organization strategies, and best practices for managing crew and equipment during a production.

Writing Assignments

1. Develop a 4-5 page written cue sheet based on the script. The cue sheet should include detailed instructions for lighting, sound, set changes, and special effects, with clear timing and placement of each cue in relation to the script's dialogue and action.
2. Maintain a written project journal for each class, with each entry consisting of at least 300 words. In each entry, reflect on your progress, challenges, and accomplishments specific to that day's class. Include your thoughts on the technical and creative decisions made, feedback from instructors or peers, and any adjustments or improvements you plan to implement. Use this journal to track your development and growth throughout the course.

Out-of-Class Assignments

1. Write a 4-5 page paper that critically analyzes the artistic elements of a current production at Butte College. Cover the topics discussed in this class this semester. Focus on how the various aspects of stagecraft contribute to the overall production. Use specific examples from the script and class to support your analysis.
2. Analyze the stagecraft fundamentals of a theatrical production of your choice in a detailed 1,000-word paper. Focus on essential elements such as set design, lighting, sound, props, and costumes, discussing how each component contributes to the overall atmosphere, storytelling, and effectiveness of the production. Provide specific examples from the production to illustrate how the technical aspects enhance or detract from the performance, and evaluate the creative choices made by the design team. Consider how these stagecraft elements interact to support the director's vision and enhance the audience's experience, reflecting on the production's overall success from a technical perspective.

Kenneth Macgowan and Robert Edmond Jones. (2022). Continental Stagecraft. Legare Street Press, 1st. 978-1016503457.

Other Learning Materials

Materials will be provided by instructor

Drama/Theater Arts (Masters Required)

Stagecraft