Theatre Arts - Dance Movement Studies, BS

Theatre Arts Programs

The above is a suggested profile for study. Advisement is mandatory for proper course sequence.

The Theatre Arts program at Bowie State University offers the Bachelor of Science degree, with a choice of studies in Musical Theatre, Acting/Directing or Dance Movement; for non-majors, the program offers a minor in theatre arts or dance. The rigorous program is designed to offer historical, theoretical and experiential studies in acting, directing, stagecraft, dance, children’s theatre, and the fundamentals of theatre research and scholarship, as students train in the traditional skills necessary for successfully entering professional theatre and for succeeding in graduate studies. The program includes continuous assessment and evaluation throughout a student’s matriculation, beginning with an audition at the onset of the freshman year and ending with a capstone seminar course that requires the submission of a cumulative portfolio. A mid-point evaluation of potential success in the program is also included and usually occurs when approximately sixty credits are acquired. Taking advantage of the University’s location and the abundance of community and professional theatre in surrounding areas, the faculty encourages students to participate in off-campus as well as on-campus auditions, productions and applied theatre. Doing so is developing their personal visions of theatre and dance as dynamic and diverse cultural elements of any society.

Mission

The purpose of the Theatre Arts program is to offer a liberal study of the discipline and prepare students for successful entrance into various types of theatre or dance employment, as well as advanced academic study. Through mentorship, practical training, and academic rigor, the program produces graduates with a unique artistic vision, a strong work ethic, and an appreciation for theatre as a dynamic cultural force.

Program Goals

Cultivate good stewards of the performing arts through progressive academic theatre and dance studies.
Build community connections and partnerships that support the program
Fostering artistic growth through academic rigor and the provision of professional opportunities.

Expected Student Outcomes and Competencies

Throughout the program of study and upon graduation, student should demonstrate the ability to

analyze a variety of performance and dramatic texts
synthesize and clearly articulate the collaborative work of theatre arts by connecting its
1. history
2. theories
3. performance elements
4. production processes
5. dramatic literature
6. technical areas (i.e., design, build, lighting, sound, dramaturgy)
7. use of technology
effectively utilize voice and body as an instrument of performance
market self in the business of theatre and dance
communicate orally and graphically the universality of theater and dance as global and cultural expressions of humans.

Program Requirements

To successfully matriculate through and graduate from Theatre Arts, majors must meet the following requirements:

Complete the basic requirements of the University, as published in its various documents, and demonstrate satisfactory growth within the program.
Earn a minimum grade of “C” in courses taken in theatre and dance; otherwise courses in question must be repeated.
Throughout matriculation, develop a comprehensive portfolio, which will be evaluated at the end of 60 credits and again in the senior capstone seminar. You must pass the portfolio review to graduate.
Fulfill all performance and crew assignments each semester, except where specific exemptions have been approved in advance (i.e., poor grades, lengthy illnesses, emergencies).
During matriculation in the program, accrue a minimum of 420 hours 52.5 hours per 15 semester) in performance and technical crew work.
Participate in at least three off-campus and four on-campus auditions each year (winter and summer included).
Annually attend departmental and outside events in the areas of visual art, music and dance. Evidence of such attendance and/or participation will be required in the portfolio.
Take additional course or laboratory work in any area of study or competency where fundamental weaknesses may be found.

Senior Project Guidelines

There are two types of Senior Projects:

Recital Project: 30-40 minutes of live (real time) performance, containing original music or arranged selections prepared with sequencing and notation techniques. Program will be advertised and appropriately done as guided by the standards and procedures which govern MUSA 410. It is suggested that the student employs his/her applied instrument as part of this program. Works prepared should be of contrasting nature, (jazz, popular, blues, classical, and urban contemporary).

Collaborative Project: 30-40 minutes of live or real time performance incorporating dance, theater, film, and video or computer animation produced in conjunction with a second artist or artists. Works prepared should be of contrasting nature (jazz, popular, blues, classical, urban contemporary).

All performance materials should be constructed with the consideration of the performance arena used to assure a good balance of sound, and maximum audience enjoyment. Appropriate credit should be given to all participants for their contributions and each should adhere to the rules that establish good concert ethics throughout the presentation.

Permission for taping, use of materials, images and videotaping should be discussed with the coordinator to assure that all legal and copyright responsibilities are met.

Graduation Requirements: All BSU majors require a minimum of 120 smesters hours.