2013-2014 CATALOG

This is an archived copy of the 2013-2014 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.miracosta.edu

Dramatic Arts

The Dramatic Arts program includes theoretical and practical courses in all aspects of theatre. Students take courses to prepare for a transfer major in dramatic arts, for professional training, or to fulfill general education requirements. Performance and technical theatre opportunities are available to both majors and non-majors. Career options include both creative and technical work in the performing arts/entertainment industry, such as live theatre, film, television, and broadcasting; academic research and teaching; and other communications-related fields, such as advertising and public relations.

Contact Information

Department Chair: Tracy Williams

Dean: Jonathan Fohrman

www.miracosta.edu/DRAM

Department: Theatre and Film

Office: Building OC4700, 760.795.6816

Full-Time Faculty

Eric Bishop
Andrew Layton
Tracy Williams

Associate Degrees

Associate in Arts Degree

Dramatic Arts

The Dramatic Arts program offers lower-division preparation for students who plan on transferring to pursue a bachelor's degree in dramatic arts. Students planning to transfer and/or earn this associate degree may also need to complete additional requirements or electives required by the transfer institution, as many CSUs and UCs have unique admissions and preparation-for-the-major requirements. Students should meet with a MiraCosta College counselor to identify required courses and to develop a written plan for their targeted university.

Required courses:
DRAM 105	Introduction to Theatre	3
DRAM 120	Dramatic Literature (Ancient Greeks to Shakespeare)	3
or DRAM 121	Dramatic Literature (Restoration to Present)
DRAM 130	Acting I	3
DRAM 253	Stage Makeup	3
DRAM 256	Stagecraft	3
Select at least 3 units from the following:		3
DRAM 270	Rehearsal and Performance - Technical Theatre
DRAM 271	Rehearsal and Performance -- Acting
DRAM 272	Rehearsal and Performance -- Musical Theatre
Total Units		18

Associate in Arts Degree

Design and Technology

Students may earn the above-named associate degree by completing a certificate of achievement and the general education courses required for MiraCosta College's Associate in Arts degree (see Associate Degrees ). Students should meet with a MiraCosta counselor to identify required courses and to develop a written educational plan for the specific degree or certificate they wish to earn.

Certificate

Certificate of Achievement

Design and Technology

This is an occupational certificate in performing arts design and technology in which the student learns the skills necessary in scenery, lighting, sound, and makeup in order to pursue a professional career in theatre, film, television, music, and/or dance.

Required courses:
DRAM 105	Introduction to Theatre	3
DRAM 139	Stage and Concert Management	3
DRAM 141	Stage Lighting	3
DRAM 253	Stage Makeup	3
DRAM 256	Stagecraft	3
DRAM 270	Rehearsal and Performance - Technical Theatre ^*	4
MTEC 140	Sound Reinforcement I	2
Total Units		21

*	To complete the DRAM 270 requirement, multiple sections must be taken in any unit combination to fulfill a total of 4 units.

How to Read Course Descriptions

Courses listed in this catalog apply to the fall 2013, spring 2014, and summer 2014 terms. Courses are numbered numerically within alphabetically arranged subject areas.

The bolded first line begins with a capitalized abbreviation that designates the subject area. This subject-area designator is followed by the official course number and a descriptive title. The next lines indicate the course's unit value; prerequisites, corequisites, advisories, and limitations on enrollment if they exist; CSU/UC credit acceptance; and lecture and lab hours followed by a Taxonomy of Program number in parentheses.

Prerequisites: This is a requirement that must be met before a student can enroll in the course.
Corequisites: This is a course the student must take in the same semester.
Advisories: This is recommended preparation the student is advised but not required to have before or in conjunction with the course.
Enrollment Limitations: Some courses place restrictions on enrollment. Most of these restrictions prevent students from duplicating course work. Others specify something the student must do prior to enrolling in a course, such as audition or obtain special approval. Some enrollment limitations restrict the number of units a student can earn within a group of similar courses.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU means the course is accepted for transfer at any California State University (CSU) campus; UC means it is accepted for transfer at any University of California (UC) campus. Some courses can be used to satisfy general education or major requirements while others transfer as elective credit. UC Credit Limitation means credit for the course may have UC transfer restrictions; these restrictions are identified at the end of the course description.
Lecture and Lab Hours: These are the number of hours the course meets for lecture and/or lab per week.
Taxonomy of Program (TOP) Number: The TOP number is identified in parentheses after the lecture and lab hours. This number serves an administrative purpose and is not intended for student use.

The course description summarizes the purpose and key topical areas of the course, and it includes special requirements if any exist. Some course descriptions end with information about whether the course was "formerly" another course, how many times the course may be repeated, if the course is offered pass/no pass, or what the UC credit limitation is.

Some course descriptions are followed by a C-ID number. The purpose of C-ID numbers is to identify comparable courses within the California community college system. When a course has a C-ID number, students can be assured the course will be accepted in lieu of a course bearing the same C-ID designation at another community college.

How to Read Course Descriptions

Courses

DRAM 105: Introduction to Theatre

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours. (1007.00)

This survey course introduces the fundamental practices and creative processes in dramatic arts. Through experimentation and examination, students will gain greater insight and appreciation of the dramatic arts as an agent of change that is vital to the humanities. All aspects of theatre production and collaboration are covered through lecture, group discussion, and participation.

DRAM 109: Practicum of Voice and Diction

Units: 1
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Laboratory 3 hours. (1007.00)

This course emphasizes vocal training for actors. It includes the basics of vocal training: projection, articulation, expression, breathing techniques, and relaxation as needed for theatrical productions.

DRAM 110: Voice and Diction

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in COMM 110.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours. (1007.00)

This course introduces students to techniques for improving the quality, flexibility, and effectiveness of the speaking voice. Students examine and practice clear articulation of American English sounds. Topics include vocal expressiveness and variety, physical relaxation, posture, breath control techniques, and the International Phonetic Alphabet. Attendance at local theatrical productions is required.

DRAM 120: Dramatic Literature (Ancient Greeks to Shakespeare)

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours. (1007.00)

This course introduces students to dramatic literature from the Greeks to the Seventeenth Century. It emphasizes the analysis of dramatic structure and practice, including reading strategies, character and plot analyses, and production practices and styles of the historical periods covered. Students may be required to attend live performances.

DRAM 121: Dramatic Literature (Restoration to Present)

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours. (1007.00)

This course introduces students to dramatic literature from the 18th century to the present. It emphasizes the analysis of dramatic structure and practice, including reading strategies, character and plot analyses, and production practices and styles of the historical period covered. Students may be required to attend live performances.

DRAM 126: Shakespearean Acting Lab

Units: 1
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Audition.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Laboratory 3 hours. (1007.00)

This lab course focuses on the basics of classical acting techniques, including comprehension and delivery of Shakespeare's works. It includes ensemble work, exercises, games, and the examination of universal themes. Students are required to attend local theatrical productions.

DRAM 130: Acting I

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (1007.00)

This course focuses on the fundamentals of acting and performance techniques based on Stanislavski's principles. It emphasizes the ability to express thought, emotion, and character through the effective use of voice, movement, and script analysis. Students are required to attend live theatrical performances.

DRAM 133: Performance and Design Portfolio Practicum

Units: 1
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Audition, nomination, or interview.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Laboratory 3 hours. (1007.00)

This course focuses on the study and practical application of theatre techniques in competitive performance and design. Students enter their performance/design practicum project into a competitive field for evaluation and feedback from outside professionals and educators. At the end of this course, acting/design students prepare a performance work/design portfolio to demonstrate skills and maximize their strengths. Students also compare and contrast their work with peers at other educational institutions and tour other college/university theatre programs in conjunction with the Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival. Students enter this course by audition/interview or nomination by the Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival. (May be repeated three times.)

DRAM 139: Stage and Concert Management

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (1006.00)

This course introduces the skills and procedures involved in stage managing a theatrical, dance, or music production. Through hands-on experience and observation, students learn to develop the knowledge and skills involved in managing a live performance. They also learn how to properly devise and design scheduling systems to prep, organize, and run rehearsals; design and develop a production book and prompt script; run appropriate dimmer and sound checks; design, organize, and format scenic shifts and their execution; and develop systems for calling lighting and sound cues during live performance. Students are required to attend two live performances.

DRAM 141: Stage Lighting

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (1006.00)

This course introduces students to the technique and practices of theatrical stage lighting, and it develops skills relative to common applications in the field. Students engage in both lecture and practice, gaining hands-on experience while demonstrating skills learned in coursework. Creating and designing lighting projects in class as well as working on current MiraCosta College Theatre productions, students evaluate and analyze the effectiveness of their skills and creations and critically reflect on their execution. Students are required to attend local theatrical productions.

DRAM 148: Acting for the Camera

Units: 3
Prerequisites: DRAM 130.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (1007.00)

This course offers an introduction to performance for the camera concerning the mediums of film, video, and television. Students will examine pragmatic approaches and techniques specifically required for each different medium to provide a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between performance and media.

DRAM 149: Directing for the Stage

Units: 3
Prerequisites: DRAM 130.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (1007.00)

This course offers an introduction to the fundamentals of directing for the stage where students experiment with directing techniques, acting, reading, and theatre exercises. Student directors make choices about themes, casting, focus of scenes, scripts, dramatic structure and script analysis, pacing, rhythm, and mood.

DRAM 226: Advanced Performance Lab

Units: 1
Prerequisites: DRAM 126.
Enrollment Limitation: Audition.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Laboratory 3 hours. (1007.00)

This advanced performance lab course focuses on advanced process and methodology, performance styles, and performance approaches. Students are required to attend live theatrical performances.

DRAM 231: Acting II

Units: 3
Prerequisites: DRAM 130.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (1007.00)

This course provides an in-depth application of Stanislavski's principles with an emphasis on characterization, scene study, methodology, and process. Acting studies focus on performance from varied acting philosophies (e.g., Meisner, Michael Chekhov, Hagen), styles, and genres. Students are required to attend live theatrical performances. (May be repeated one time.)

DRAM 232: Movement for the Stage

Units: 2
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Audition.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 1 hour, laboratory 3 hours. (1007.00)

This course creates an environment in which students explore dynamic movement. It emphasizes not only physical control, strength, flexibility, and creative imagination but also the integration of mind, body, and emotion. (May be repeated one time.)

DRAM 253: Stage Makeup

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (1006.00)

This course introduces students to the technique and practices of theatrical makeup, and it develops skills relative to the common applications for stage and film. Students engage in the practice hands-on and create looks ranging from basic corrective makeup to fantasy character makeup. Students evaluate and analyze the effectiveness of their creations, reflect on their skills, produce proper design documentation, and put makeup into practice backstage during MiraCosta College Theatre productions.

DRAM 256: Stagecraft

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (1006.00)

This course introduces students to the technique and practices of theatrical stagecraft, and it develops skills relative to the common applications found backstage. Students engage in both lecture and practice, gaining hands-on experience while demonstrating skills learned in course work. Creating scenic environments for current MiraCosta College Theatre productions, students evaluate and analyze the effectiveness of their creations, critically reflect on their skills, and put them into practice.

DRAM 270: Rehearsal and Performance - Technical Theatre

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: May not enroll in two sections of the same course in any given semester.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Laboratory 9 hours. (1007.00)

This course provides students with theatre production experience. All students participate in the Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival academic theatre competition. Production crew positions include stage or house management, construction, scenery, properties, costume, lighting, sound, and running crews. The course emphasizes the rehearsal process and culminates in public performances. Students are required to attend theatrical productions. (May be repeated three times.)

DRAM 271: Rehearsal and Performance -- Acting

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Audition.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Laboratory 9 hours. (1007.00)

This course provides students with the opportunity to perform in non-musical theatrical productions. All students participate in the Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival academic theatre competition. The course emphasizes the rehearsal process and culminates in public performances. (May be repeated three times.)

DRAM 272: Rehearsal and Performance -- Musical Theatre

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Audition.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Laboratory 9 hours. (1007.00)

This course provides students with the opportunity to perform in main-stage musical productions. All students participate in the Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival academic theatre competition. The course emphasizes the rehearsal process and culminates in public performances. (May be repeated three times.)

DRAM 292: Internship Studies

Units: 0.5-3
Prerequisites: None
Corequisite: Complete 75 hrs paid or 60 hrs non-paid work per unit.
Enrollment Limitation: Instructor, dept chair, and Career Center approval. May not enroll in any combination of cooperative work experience and/or internship studies concurrently.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU

This course provides students the opportunity to apply the theories and techniques of their discipline in an internship position in a professional setting under the instruction of a faculty-mentor and site supervisor. It introduces students to aspects of the roles and responsibilities of professionals employed in the field of study. Topics include goal-setting, employability skills development, and examination of the world of work as it relates to the student's career plans. Students must develop new learning objectives and/or intern at a new site upon each repetition. Students may not earn more than 16 units in any combination of cooperative work experience (general or occupational) and/or internship studies during community college attendance.

DRAM 296: Topics in Dramatic Arts

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1 hour.
Lecture 2 hours.
Lecture 3 hours. (1007.00)

This course gives students an opportunity to study topics in Dramatic Arts that are not included in regular course offerings. Each Topics course is announced, described, and given its own title and 296 number designation in the class schedule.

DRAM 298: Directed Study in Dramatic Arts

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Instructor and department chair approval and successful completion of 12 units of college work with at least a 3.0 grade-point average.
Repeatability Rule: May be taken for a total of 3 units.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Laboratory 3 hours
Laboratory 6 hours
Laboratory 9 hours. (1007.00)

This course allows students to pursue a special area of interest in order to achieve specific goals beyond the scope of existing courses within the discipline. Students work independently and interact directly with an instructor on an individual basis and as prescribed by the Directed Study Agreement.

DRAM 299: Occupational Cooperative Work Experience

Units: 1-4
Prerequisites: None
Corequisite: Complete 75 hrs paid or 60 hrs non-paid work per unit.
Enrollment Limitation: Career Center approval. May not enroll in any combination of cooperative work experience and/or internship studies concurrently.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU

Cooperative Work Experience is intended for students who are employed in a job directly related to their major. It allows such students the opportunity to apply the theories and skills of their discipline to their position and to undertake new responsibilities and learn new skills at work. Topics include goal-setting, employability skills development, and examination of the world of work as it relates to the student's career plans. Students may not earn more than 16 units in any combination of cooperative work experience (general or occupational) and/or internship studies during community college attendance.