Performing Arts

Leah R. Gallant-McFall, Professor

Erin J. Lane, Associate Professor

John O'Hagan, Professor

Trish Brown Schmit, Professor

Christine Calkins Steele, Professor

The Performing Arts are integral to a full, enriching life and vital to a thriving society. With care, attention, and rigor, we foster an inclusive and diverse space for students to uncover the artist within through an interdisciplinary approach to dance, acting, and theatre design and technology. We cultivate excellence through an embodied creative practice with theory, skill, and performance woven into a curriculum focused on the growth and development of the whole person. Each student receives highly individualized one-on-one mentoring during college and beyond. They collaborate and train with faculty who are all active industry professionals and with domestic and international guest artists. We offer numerous opportunities to work and perform in local, regional, and international markets, travel to conferences, and study abroad.

We promote an exploration of individual identity, artistic voice, and relationship to society as an artist. Our program is open to the entire community; we believe that the arts can bless both the artist and audience and serve as a catalyst for healing in the world. Our students carry this ethos with them into their creative work, their professional careers in the arts or related fields, and their lives.

The maximum transferable credit for a major in performing arts is 21 semester hours. Two practicum courses are required to be taken at Principia College (THEA 350, THEA 351, THEA 352, THEA 353, DANC 370, DANC 371 , or DANC 372 ) for any amount of credit. Two semester hours of THEA 354 Thea Practicum Mainstage Crew are also required to be taken at Principia College.

Within the Performing Arts Program, theatre students participate in a broad study and practice of theatre history and literature, performance, design, and technical theatre. Dance students participate in a thorough study and practice of dance history, composition, production, technique, choreography, and performance. Through transformative learning experiences, Performing Arts students grow into confident, competent, creative artists.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Train Deeply

Students develop principles of personal creative practice in their chosen area of artistic interest.
Students apply professional habits and standards in their work.

2. Think Critically

Students synthesize an understanding of artistic work in a cultural, historical, or contemporary context.
Students employ metacognitive skills to evaluate their own and others’ artistic and/or scholarly work.

3. Create Authentically

Students create artistic work that reflects originality and informed choices.
Students incorporate feedback into their artistic practice.

4. Share Freely

Students demonstrate the attitude and aptitude for realizing meaningful artistic work in their community.
Students articulate the value of the performing arts in their lives and society.

College Wide Student Learning Outcomes of Principia College: Defining a Liberal Arts Education

The curricular and co-curricular programs at Principia College are designed for students to be lifelong learners, thinkers, and problem-solvers. To accomplish this, the College has established the following outcomes for its graduates.

Guided by Principle, Principia College students will demonstrate:

Depth and breadth of knowledge
Critical and creative thinking
Effective communication
Intellectual inquiry and engagement
Active commitment to community and global citizenship

Major

B.A. Major in Performing Arts

Minor

DANC 030 Dance Composition - No Credit 0.0 SH [ ]

A course designed to introduce the student to the fine art of composition for dance. Respected texts are used to guide the students through the process of creating work for the stage. Students identify key components of effective composition, practice these principles, and produce pieces that illustrate their skill as choreographers. For non-dance minors whose academic load exceeds 18 hours.
Class Level Restriction: Sophomore and Junior and Senior only.

DANC 044 Dance: Ballet II - No Credit 0.0 SH [GEPE]

Provides the intermediate dancer with ongoing training in ballet technique. Emphasis is on center work and adagio.

DANC 045 Dance: Ballet III - No Credit 0.0 SH [GEPE]

Provides the more advanced dancer with an upper-level technique class emphasizing pointe work and petit allegro.

DANC 079 Dance Styles - No Credit 0.0 SH [GEPE]

Dance technique course that provides technical training and exposure in a variety of styles. Including but not limited to: tap, hip-hop, lyrical, social dances, cultural dance styles (ex: Irish or dances from the African Diaspora), creative movement, partnering etc. Taught with one technique emphasis or as a survey course with an emphasis in multiple styles. Can be taken multiple times.

DANC 081 Dance: Modern II - No Credit 0.0 SH [GEPE]

Builds on the basic modern dance techniques and allows greater exploration of improvisation and movement sequences.

DANC 082 Dance: Modern III - No Credit 0.0 SH [GEPE]

Continuation of DANC 081. Further development of modern technique and improvisation and floorwork. Exploration of different styles of modern dance, e.g. Limón, Graham, and others.

DANC 083 Dance as Movement - No Credit 0.0 SH [GEPE]

This introductory course is provided to train the student dancer in spatial awareness, weight transfer, and basic studio-dance movement. It is a generic dance class designed to enable dancers to make connections between basic pedestrian movement and dance vocabulary movements.

DANC 084 Dance as Movement II-No Credit 0.0 SH [GEPE]

Beginning level dance class with units primarily in Western concert dance genres which may include: ballet, modern, jazz, tap, somatics. No prior experience necessary.

DANC 144 Dance: Ballet II 1.0-2.0 SH [ ]

Provides the intermediate dancer with ongoing training in ballet technique. Emphasis is on center work and adagio. May be offered for variable credit from one to two semester hours.

DANC 145 Dance: Ballet III 1.0-2.0 SH [ ]

Provides the more advanced dancer with an upper-level technique class emphasizing pointe work and petit allegro. May be offered for variable credit from one to two semester hours.

DANC 179 Dance Styles 1.0-2.0 SH [ ]

DANC 181 Dance: Modern II 1.0-2.0 SH [ ]

Builds on the basic modern dance techniques and allows greater exploration of improvisation and movement sequences. May be offered for variable credit from one to two semester hours.

DANC 182 Dance: Modern III 1.0-2.0 SH [ ]

Continuation of DANC 081 or 181. Further development of modern technique and improvisation and floorwork. Exploration of different styles of modern dance, e.g. Limón, Graham, and others. May be offered for variable credit from one to two semester hours.

DANC 183 Dance as Movement 1.0-2.0 SH [ ]

DANC 184 Dance as Movement II 1.0-2.0 SH [ ]

Beginning level dance class with units primarily in Western concert dance genres which may include: ballet, modern, jazz, tap, somatics. No prior experience necessary.

DANC 200 Topics in Dance History 3.0 SH [GEA]

A comprehensive study of a notable topic in dance history whether it is a choreographer, particular period of dance, or specific topic. Students are introduced to a particularly relevant viewpoint that includes historical context, analysis, and viewing. The title will be extended to describe the current topic. May be taken more than once if topics differ.

DANC 250 Dance History 3.0 SH [GEA]

An introduction to western dance history. Periods covered include, but are not limited to, the Baroque, Romantic, and Classical ballet eras and the Modern and Post Modern eras. Both ballet and modern dance luminaries are studied. Video is used and an emphasis is placed on historical context as regards dance styles and periods.

DANC 252 World Dance Cultures 3.0 SH [GEA]

An introductory course that explores the history of global cultures through current dance practices other than ballet and modern. Countries/cultural groups to be discussed include but are not limited to India, Japan, China, Hawai'i, Bali, Java, South America, Africa, Turkey, Native American, Caribbean and others. Video, movement experiences, historic context, dance design details will all be explored.

DANC 260 Dance Topics 1.0-3.0 SH [ ]

Group study of selected topics in dance. The title will be extended to describe the current topic. May be taken a total of eight times provided topics differ.

DANC 275 The Functional Moving Body 3.0 SH [ ]

Basic structural elements of the dancer’s primary tool—the body—are discussed. To inform proper functional alignment and biomechanics of movement, skeletal structure, major bones, muscle groups, joints, and anatomical plane—as used in movement—will be identified and explored. Students reflect on how animating principles of movement and a basic knowledge of bodily structure provides a clear sense of how dancers move.
Class Level Restriction: Junior and Senior only.

DANC 330 Dance Composition 3.0 SH [ ]

A course designed to introduce the student to the fine art of composition for dance. Respected texts are used to guide the students through the process of creating work for the stage. Students identify key components of effective composition, practice these principles, and produce pieces that illustrate their skill as choreographers.
Class Level Restriction: Sophomore and Junior and Senior only.

DANC 335 Creative Theory and Practice 1.0-3.0 SH [ ]

This course serves as a laboratory for the performing artist (theatre and/or dance) to solidify his/her own artistic practice and process, to analyze and evaluate best practices in their discipline, and to articulate the transformative power of the performing arts within a community.

DANC 370 Dance Practicum Cast 1.0-3.0 SH [ ]

Practical application of classroom courses in a production setting. Students participate in all aspects of a performance experience from auditions, learning choreography in the rehearsal process, to the final mainstage performances for the community. Open to all students. May be offered for variable credit from one to three semester hours. May be taken more than once.
Fee=$15.00.

DANC 371 Dance Practicum Staff 1.0-3.0 SH [ ]

A dance production course designed to give students hands-on experience in assisting the director and, in certain cases, the technical director. Professionalism, self-discipline, strong communication skills, and team work are stressed. May be offered for variable credit from one to three semester hours. May be taken more than once.

DANC 372 Choreography Practicum 1.0-2.0 SH [ ]

This is a production course designed to enrich and strengthen the student choreographer’s skills through participation in a faculty-directed but student-centric, main stage dance production. Choreographic staff will fully explore the performance process from the initial auditions through the public performances. Professionalism, self-discipline, team work, generosity of spirit, and personal creativity will all be stressed.
Prerequisite: DANC 330.
Class Level Restriction: Sophomore and Junior and Senior only.

THEA 050 Thea Practicum Mainstage Cast 0.0 SH [ ]

Practical application in a mainstage production of classroom courses in theatre performance. Students develop character, analyze text, research cultural and historical background, and engage with an ensemble through a rehearsal process in preparation for performance.

THEA 051 Thea Practicum Studio Cast 0.0 SH [ ]

THEA 052 Thea Practicum Mainstage Staff 0.0 SH [ ]

Practical application in a mainstage production of classroom work in the non-performance aspects of theatre, including stage management, assistant direction, choreography, dramaturgy, business management, publicity, etc. Students gain experience in the creative and technical aspects of production.

THEA 053 Thea Practicum Studio Staff 0.0 SH [ ]

Practical application in a studio production of classroom work in the non-performance aspects of theatre, including design, stage management, assistant direction, choreography, dramaturgy, business management, publicity, etc. Students gain experience in the creative and technical aspects of production.

THEA 054 Thea Practicum Mainstage Crew 0.0 SH [ ]

Practical application in a mainstage production of classroom work in technical theatre, including set and costume construction, and hanging and focusing lights, as well as additional crew work. Students gain practical experience in the technical aspects of production.

THEA 101 Acting I 3.0 SH [GEA]

Basic acting technique and improvisation methods. Includes voice work and stage movement.

THEA 102 Oral Interpretation 3.0 SH [GEA]

Instructs students in the necessary techniques for effective oral reading. Valuable for students of theatre, mass communication, and literature, as well as for others who want to make the written word come alive - at home, in business, or on the platform.
Class Level Restriction: Freshman and Sophomore only.

THEA 140 Stagecraft I 3.0 SH [ ]

An introduction to basic design and construction techniques, and may include scene painting and lighting, in support of department productions.
Fee=$50.00.

THEA 220 Intro to Theatrical Design 3.0 SH [GEA]

A project-based course focusing on three major aspects of theatrical design: set, costume, and lighting. Students will produce set and costume designs and learn fundamentals and practical skills with lighting. The course may also include technical theatre topics like scene painting, prop making, and stage makeup, depending on projects that may be happening in the theatre in a given semester.
Fee=$50.00.

THEA 225 Voice and Speech 3.0 SH [GEA]

This course introduces vocal techniques, including Linklater voice work designed to "free the natural voice" of the student actor or public speaker. Through breathing, relaxation, alignment, and physical awareness exercises, students increase their ability to be expressive and honest in their vocal communication. Texts used include poetry, Shakespeare sonnets, and dramatic literature.

THEA 230 Theatre Movement 3.0 SH [GEA]

Focuses on movement techniques and skills inspired by the demands of the stage, including physical alignment and release, expressive movement, ensemble exploration, and physical embodiment of character.

THEA 235 Writing for the Stage & Screen 3.0 SH [GEA]

This course is a skill-development class as well as a creative thinking/writing experience. With the end goal of producing a short play for the stage, and a short screenplay (suitable for inclusion in an Artist's Portfolio), this course examines the elements and effects of dramatic writing, and explains how to "Save the Cat.".

THEA 260 Theatre Topics 1.0-3.0 SH [ ]

Group study of selected topics in theatre. The title will be extended to describe the current topic. May be taken four times provided the topics differ.

THEA 285 Theatre Costuming 3.0 SH [ ]

A comprehensive study of the history, design, and construction of theatrical costuming. Includes hands-on experience in the areas of design sketches and renderings, color, fabric, and lighting studies as well as field trips to local museums, theatre tours, and productions.
Fee=$60.00.

THEA 290 Theatre History & Literature I 3.0 SH [GEH]

Theatre History & Literature I is an in-depth survey course designed to show plays in their historical and cultural contexts. A valuable part of a liberal arts perspective, this course travels the world through time to spotlight the development of ritual and theatrical practices, and the literature that is generated. Part One (THEA 290) covers the period "Origins to Shakespeare.".

THEA 291 Theatre History & Lit. II 3.0 SH [GEH]

Theatre History & Literature II is an in-depth survey course designed to show plays in their historical and cultural contexts. A valuable part of a liberal arts perspective, this course travels through time to spotlight the development of ritual and theatrical practices worldwide, and the literature that is generated. Part Two (THEA 291) covers the period "Kabuki to the Present.".

THEA 310 Acting Studio 3.0 SH [ ]

Further develops the actor’s skills and technique, as well as creative practice through warm-ups, scene work, monologues, and character study.
Prerequisite: THEA 101.

THEA 335 Creative Theory and Practice 1.0-3.0 SH [ ]

THEA 340 Advanced Voice and Movement 3.0 SH [ ]

Students will deepen their understanding and practice of voice and movement techniques necessary to the actor's craft.
Prerequisite: THEA 225.

THEA 341 Stagecraft II 3.0 SH [ ]

Continued study and application of the methods and components of theatrical production, which may include one or more of the following: theater facilities, scenery construction and painting, properties, lighting, costume, design, sound and theatrical management.
Prerequisite: THEA 140.
Class Level Restriction: Junior and Senior only.
Fee=$25.00.

THEA 350 Thea Practicum Mainstage Cast 1.0-3.0 SH [ ]

THEA 351 Thea Practicum Studio Cast 1.0-3.0 SH [ ]

Practical application in a studio production of classroom courses in theatre performance. Students develop character, analyze text, research cultural and historical background, and engage with an ensemble through a rehearsal process in preparation for performance. May be offered for variable credit from one to three semester hours. May be taken more than once.
Fee=$20.00.

THEA 352 Thea Practicum Mainstage Staff 1.0-3.0 SH [ ]

Practical application in a mainstage production of classroom work in the management area including stage management, assistant direction, choreography, dramaturgy, business management, publicity, etc. Students gain experience in the creative and technical aspects of production. May be offered for variable credit from one to three semester hours. May be taken more than once.

THEA 353 Thea Practicum Studio Staff 1.0-3.0 SH [ ]

THEA 354 Thea Practicum Mainstage Crew 1.0-3.0 SH [ ]

Practical application in a mainstage production of classroom work in technical theatre, including set and costume construction, hanging and focusing lights, as well as additional crew work. Students gain experience in the technical aspects of production. May be offered for variable credit from one to three semester hours. May be taken more than once.

THEA 360 Acting Shakespeare 3.0 SH [GEA]

Trains students in the fundamentals of Shakespearean acting, including cultural and historical context of Shakespeare’s plays, fundamentals of textual analysis, and performance. When offered as part of an abroad, it may include workshops/lectures from the Globe Theatre and Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, as well as the Principia classroom. The course culminates in scenes/full production of a Shakespeare play.
Class Level Restriction: Sophomore and Junior and Senior only.

THEA 401 Advanced Acting Topics 1.0-3.0 SH [ ]

Advanced course in acting focused on specific performance techniques. Areas covered are style, audition techniques, improvisation, voice, movement, and specific acting methods such as the Chekhov Technique. Subject matter will change based on the needs of the students. The title will be extended to describe the current topic. May be taken four times provided the topics differ.
Prerequisite: THEA 101.
Class Level Restriction: Junior and Senior only.

THEA 402 Spec Creative or Research Proj 1.0-3.0 SH [ ]

Advanced creative or research project in performance or scholarship. May be repeated for a maximum of nine semester hours, three of which may apply toward the major or minor.
Class Level Restriction: Junior and Senior only.
Field of Study Restrictions: Performing Arts Majors and/or Minors only.

THEA 420 Directing 4.0 SH [ ]

Practical application of skills acquired in Acting I, II, and Practicum through working with actors to direct scenes and one-act plays. The fundamental directing principles of text analysis, communication, picturization, blocking, and design principles are learned and practiced.
Prerequisite: THEA 101, THEA 201, and either THEA 290 or THEA 291.
Class Level Restriction: Junior and Senior only.
Fee=$50.00.

THEA 494 Theatre or Dance Internship 3.0-6.0 SH [ ]

Practical experience in one of the various areas of theatre and dance (management, performance, technical theatre, or dramaturgy). May be offered for variable credit from 3 to 6 semester hours. May be repeated up to a total of 9 semester hours.
Class Level Restriction: Sophomore and Junior and Senior only.