LOS ANGELES CITY COLLEGE | 07-08 CATALOG [REV. 07/07]

theater

 

Chair: Fred Fate

(323) 953-4000 ext. 2971 • TA208

http://theatreacademy.lacitycollege.edu/

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 PROGRAMS OFFERED

 

Associate of Arts:

Theater, General

Acting

Advanced Acting

Technical Theater

Costuming

 

Theatre Academy:

Acting

Advanced Acting

Technical Theater

Costuming

  

There are two types of programs offered for students interested in majoring in Theater:

 

•    Associate of Arts Degree Program.  This program is designed for students who wish to pursue an Associate of Arts degree in Theater and then transfer to an undergraduate university or college. 

 

•    Theatre Academy Professional Theatre Training Program.  This nationally recognized conservatory is a vocational skill certificated, professional theater-training program for students specializing in acting, technical theater, and costuming who wish to move directly into the profession upon completion of their training.

 

Note that some courses offered may be offered every other semester, or less frequently. Students must receive a satisfactory grade in all Theater courses taken and have completed those courses within eight years, to meet requirements. 


 

 DEGREE PROGRAMS 

  

General Theater

(for Non-Academy Applicants)

Students studying in the Theater Department who are not part of the Theatre Academy fall into four categories:

1.     Those who are satisfying their elective and/or humanities requirements for the Associate of Arts degree;

2.     Those who are currently in the entertainment industry and are interested in focusing on a specific course that will further strengthen their understanding of the craft and how it may apply to their profession;

3.     Those who are interested in receiving an Associate of Arts Degree and then transferring to an undergraduate university or college (PLAN A – See below);

4.     Those who are interested in receiving a career program Associate of Arts Degree and not transferring to a university or college (PLAN B – See below)

 

THEATER

Associate of Arts Degree (Plan A)

Transfer Program

A student must satisfy an 18-unit minimum requirement in the Theater major plus general education units equalling an additional 60-64 units, minimum, in order to receive a transferable Associate of Arts degree in Theater.  No specific combination of classes in Theater is required. 

 

The following Theater program is strongly recommended for students interested in a transferable Associate of Arts Degree (“PLAN A”).

 

COURSES                                                                               UNITS

First Semester

Theater 100........................................................................................ 3

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 200........................................................................................ 3

 

Second Semester         

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 271........................................................................................ 2

Theater 300........................................................................................ 3

 

Third Semester         

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 110........................................................................................ 3

Theater 273........................................................................................ 2

Theater 400........................................................................................ 3

 

Fourth Semester

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 273........................................................................................ 2

Theater 450 ....................................................................................... 2

 

Total Units...................................................................................... 25

 

Entrance requirements to the transferring university or college will vary depending upon the individual institution.  Students need to consult with a counselor for the specific requirements of the university being considered.

 

To complete general education requirements in this area of study, Plan A for the AA/AS Degree is required.

PLAN A: Please consult with a counselor about specific courses needed or see the college catalog "Graduation Requirements" section.  Plan A is designed for transfer to a four-year college or university. However, requirements vary depending upon the individual institution. Please consult with a counselor for the specific requirements of the university you plan to attend.

3-6 Units          English Composition                    

6-9 Units          Communication/Analytical Thinking

3 Units             ................................................................... Natural Sciences                        

3 Units             ............................................................................. Humanities                                

9 Units             Social/Behavioral Sciences (including American History & Governments)

3-4 Units          Health/Physical Education          

3-5 Units          Math Competency                    

(Math 115 or higher or passing score on Los Angeles Community College District Math competency exam)

 

THEATRE ACADEMY

Professional theatre conservatory

for actors, scenic technicians,

and costumers

Associate of Arts Degree (Plan B)

Career Programs

Professional theater training is offered in four areas, or options, of concentration: Acting, Advanced Acting, Costuming, and Technical Theatre. By adding General Education classes to their studies, students may earn an Associate of Arts Degree "PLAN B." Students may also earn a skill certificate in the option areas (refer  to the Theatre Academy Skill Certificate section below for details).

 

The Theatre Academy at Los Angeles City College has firmly established itself as one of the most highly respected professional theater training institutions in the United States. Since its founding in 1929, the training program of the Academy has been dedicated to developing the skills, crafts, and attitudes of students to prepare them for careers in the professional theater.

 

The Theatre Academy is dedicated to the training of talented, serious students who wish to pursue a career in the professional theatre. All prospective Academy students are required to apply for admission to the Theatre Academy (Theatre Production Office, Theatre Building 208). All candidates are required to audition and/or interview before being invited to train at the Academy. Those interested in training at the Academy should call the Theatre Production Office (323) 953-4000 ext. 2990 to set up an audition/interview.

 

The training that Theatre Academy students receive is stimulating, broadening, exacting, and intense. A limited number of openings are available each Fall and Spring semester to those students who are highly motivated, aggressive, exceptionally talented, and responsible.

 

Information concerning audition/interview requirements is available in the Theatre Production Office of the Theatre Department. Any actor interested in pursuing training at the Theatre Academy must exhibit competence in spoken English, relatively free of dialects and regional accents, so that faulty understanding or articulation does not become a hindrance in the training.

 

All prospective Acting majors must consult with a member of the faculty before auditioning. Prospective Technical Theatre and Costume majors must consult with a faculty member in the appropriate area of interest within the Academy.

 

BLOCK SCHEDULING: The Theatre Academy is a full-time professional theatre conservatory that schedules classes in a "block" configuration; that is, students are given a specific and required full-time load of courses that are to be taken each semester. Students are not to vary the courses in each semester’s block schedule without approval of the department. When time permits, students are welcome to take other coursework outside the Academy class structure.
 

 

THEATRE ACADEMY OPTION I: ACTING

Associate of Arts Degree (Plan B)

Career Program

This two-year program is a full-time exploration of the skills necessary to compete in theatre, television, film, and other aspects of the entertainment industry. Guided by a critically acclaimed faculty with a vast range of experience in the industry, the students are provided fundamental skill understanding in acting, movement, voice, speech, character analysis, dialects, and production. Upon satisfactory completion of the program, the students will have developed a respect and appreciation for all aspects of theatre, along with the ability to create a character on stage and to sustain a performance in front of an audience.

 

 

COURSES                                                                               UNITS

First Semester

Theater 100........................................................................................ 3

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 242........................................................................................ 3

Theater 270........................................................................................ 3

Theater 300........................................................................................ 3

Theater 345........................................................................................ 2

Theater 346........................................................................................ 0

Music 400.......................................................................................... 1

 

Second Semester

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 240........................................................................................ 3

Theater 242........................................................................................ 3

Theater 272........................................................................................ 2

Theater 345........................................................................................ 2

Theater 346........................................................................................ 0

Theater 450........................................................................................ 2

Theater 302........................................................................................ 3

 

Third Semester

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 232........................................................................................ 2

Theater 242........................................................................................ 3

Theater 243 (taken in either the third or fourth semester)............................. 2

Theater 274........................................................................................ 3

Theater 277........................................................................................ 3

Theater 294........................................................................................ 2

Theater 295........................................................................................ 0

Theater 110 (taken in either the third or fourth semester)............................. 3

 

Fourth Semester

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 232........................................................................................ 2

Theater 242........................................................................................ 3

Theater 243 (taken in either the third or fourth semester)............................. 2

Theater 262........................................................................................ 2

Theater 274........................................................................................ 3

Theater 277........................................................................................ 3

Theater 294........................................................................................ 2

Theater 295........................................................................................ 0

Theater 110 (taken in either the third or fourth semester)............................. 3

 

Total Units...................................................................................... 68

 

Some students may be advised to take additional prerequisites or co-requisite courses beyond those required to ensure success in the program. Others may be excused from specific courses above based on previous training and/or experience. Any other changes than those stated above are made with the advice and consent of the Theatre Academy faculty.

 

To complete general education requirements in this area of study, Plan B for the AA/AS Degree is required.

PLAN B: Please consult with a counselor about specific courses needed or see the college catalog "Graduation Requirements" section. Plan B is not designed for transfer to a four-year college.

3 Units             ............................................................. English Composition

3 Units             ..................................... Communication/Analytical Thinking

3 Units             ................................................................... Natural Sciences

3 Units             ............................................................................. Humanities

3 Units             Social/Behavioral Sciences (including American History & Governments)

3-4 Units          Health/Physical Education

3-5 Units          Math Competency

 

 

THEATRE ACADEMY OPTION II – ADVANCED ACTING

Associate of Arts Degree (Plan B)

Career Program

After successfully completing two years of professional actor training at the Theatre Academy, a select number of students are invited to a third year of specialized training where they receive advanced coursework in theatre orientation, directing, acting for the camera, rehearsal and performance, scene study, and work in classical acting. Students who complete this special third year of training are fully prepared to enter the acting field a step above many professional actors in the industry today. Audition and cold reading techniques, resume preparation and career marketing are only a few of the skills provided that will better equip the Academy graduate to work in the highly competitive fields of theatre, film, and television.

 

 

COURSES                                                                               UNITS

Fifth Semester

Theater 185........................................................................................ 1

Theater 205........................................................................................ 2

Theater 225........................................................................................ 3

Theater 232........................................................................................ 2

Theater 275........................................................................................ 3

Theater 276........................................................................................ 3      

Theater 294........................................................................................ 2

Theater 295........................................................................................ 0

 

Sixth Semester

Theater 185........................................................................................ 1

Theater 205........................................................................................ 2

Theater 225 (taken in Fall semester)....................................................... 2

Theater 232........................................................................................ 2

Theater 262........................................................................................ 2

Theater 275........................................................................................ 3      

Theater 276........................................................................................ 3

Theater 294........................................................................................ 2

Theater 295........................................................................................ 0

 

Total Units...................................................................................... 31

 

To complete general education requirements in this area of study, Plan B for the AA/AS Degree is required.

PLAN B: Please consult with a counselor about specific courses needed or see the college catalog "Graduation Requirements" section. Plan B is not designed for transfer to a four-year college.

3 Units             ............................................................. English Composition

3 Units             ..................................... Communication/Analytical Thinking

3 Units             ................................................................... Natural Sciences

3 Units             ............................................................................. Humanities

3 Units             Social/Behavioral Sciences (including American History & Governments)

3-4 Units          Health/Physical Education

3-5 Units          Math Competency
 

 

THEATRe ACADEMY OPTION III – COSTUMING

Associate of Arts Degree (Plan B)

Career Program

The Theatre Academy’s program in Theatrical Costuming trains costumers and designers through a broad-based theatre curriculum with continual reference to the requirements and differences of television, video, and film costuming. The hands-on curriculum guides the student through methods of costume construction, procedures for handling theatrical wardrobe and organizational techniques, analyzing scripts from a costume perspective, dealing with costuming emergencies, and understanding Director/Designer relationships. This hands-on program stresses shop discipline, organization, maintenance, and procedures. The final two semesters of study focus on the student’s individual interests and talents, including the development of a portfolio, the design of an Academy production, or internship at one of the Los Angeles theatres.

 

COURSES                                                                               UNITS

First Semester

Theater 100........................................................................................ 3

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 425........................................................................................ 2

Theater 426........................................................................................ 0

Art 101.............................................................................................. 3

One of the following five

Theater 400........................................................................................ 3

Theater 411........................................................................................ 3

Theater 413........................................................................................ 3

Theater 415........................................................................................ 3

Theater 416........................................................................................ 3

 

Second Semester

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 425........................................................................................ 2

Theater 426........................................................................................ 0

Art 501.............................................................................................. 3

Two of the following five

Theater 400........................................................................................ 3

Theater 411........................................................................................ 3

Theater 413........................................................................................ 3

Theater 415........................................................................................ 3

Theater 416........................................................................................ 3

 

Third Semester

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 200........................................................................................ 3

Theater 425........................................................................................ 2

Theater 426........................................................................................ 0

Art 201.............................................................................................. 3

Two of the following five

Theater 400........................................................................................ 3

Theater 411........................................................................................ 3

Theater 413........................................................................................ 3

Theater 415........................................................................................ 3

Theater 416........................................................................................ 3

 

Fourth Semester

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 110........................................................................................ 3

Theater 300........................................................................................ 3

Theater 425........................................................................................ 2

Theater 426........................................................................................ 0

One of the following five

Theater 400........................................................................................ 3

Theater 411........................................................................................ 3

Theater 413........................................................................................ 3

Theater 415........................................................................................ 3

Theater 416........................................................................................ 3

 

Total Units...................................................................................... 54

 

Students are required to take Computer Science Information Technology 101 or Computer Technology 1, or be able to demonstrate computer proficiency to the satisfaction of the Costuming faculty.

     

Suggested Electives: Students qualified to take more than the prescribed units should take CAOT 1, 2; Art 202.

 

To complete general education requirements in this area of study, Plan B for the AA/AS Degree is required.

PLAN B: Please consult with a counselor about specific courses needed or see the college catalog "Graduation Requirements" section. Plan B is not designed for transfer to a four-year college.

3 Units             ............................................................. English Composition

3 Units             ..................................... Communication/Analytical Thinking

3 Units             ................................................................... Natural Sciences

3 Units             ............................................................................. Humanities

3 Units             Social/Behavioral Sciences (including American History & Governments)

3-4 Units          Health/Physical Education

3-5 Units          Math Competency

 

 

THEATRE ACADEMY OPTION IV – TECHNICAL THEATRE

Associate of Arts Degree (Plan B)

Career Program

The Technical Theatre Training program graduates highly trained and specialized scenic technicians who have learned a sound working knowledge of their craft and a respect for the skills and technologies associated with their chosen profession. The Technical Theatre Training program at LACC is one of the most unique hands-on programs of its kind in the country, with faculty working alongside students who are specifically interested in the disciplines and craft related to the stage technician. The cutting edge technologies being taught on state-of-the-art equipment are some of the most advanced in the theater training industry. The curriculum combines classroom study with the intense hands-on experience associated with the Academy’s rigorous play production schedule.

 

COURSES                                                                               UNITS

First Semester

Theater 100........................................................................................ 3

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 302........................................................................................ 3

Theater 325........................................................................................ 3

Theater 335........................................................................................ 2

Theater 336........................................................................................ 0

One of the following four

Theater 311........................................................................................ 3

Theater 313........................................................................................ 3

Theater 314........................................................................................ 3

Theater 315........................................................................................ 3

 

Second Semester

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 325....................................................................................... 3

Theater 335........................................................................................ 2

Theater 336........................................................................................ 0

CAOT 60........................................................................................... 3

One of the following four

Theater 311........................................................................................ 3

Theater 313........................................................................................ 3

Theater 314........................................................................................ 3

Theater 315........................................................................................ 3

 

Third Semester

Theater 105....................................................................................... 1

Theater 200........................................................................................ 3

Theater 325........................................................................................ 3

Theater 335........................................................................................ 2

Theater 336........................................................................................ 0

One of the following four

Theater 311........................................................................................ 3

Theater 313........................................................................................ 3

Theater 314........................................................................................ 3

Theater 315........................................................................................ 3

 

Fourth Semester

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 110........................................................................................ 3

Theater 185........................................................................................ 1

Theater 335........................................................................................ 2

Theater 336........................................................................................ 0

One of the following four

Theater 311........................................................................................ 3

Theater 313........................................................................................ 3

Theater 314........................................................................................ 3

Theater 315........................................................................................ 3

 

Total Units...................................................................................... 49

 

Students are required to take Theater 200 and Computer Science 101 or Computer Technology 1, or be able to demonstrate computer proficiency to the satisfaction of the Scenic Technologies faculty. These courses must be taken between the Second and Fourth semesters.

     

Suggested Electives: Students qualified to take more than the prescribed units should take Theater 105; Art 101, 102, 209, 501.

 

To complete general education requirements in this area of study, Plan B for the AA/AS Degree is required.

PLAN B: Please consult with a counselor about specific courses needed or see the college catalog "Graduation Requirements" section. Plan B is not designed for transfer to a four-year college.

3 Units             ............................................................. English Composition

3 Units             ..................................... Communication/Analytical Thinking

3 Units                    ............................................................ Natural Sciences

3 Units             ............................................................................. Humanities

3 Units             Social/Behavioral Sciences (including American History & Governments)

3-4 Units          Health/Physical Education

3-5 Units          Math Competency
 

 

 CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS 

 

THEATRE ACADEMY SKILL

Los Angeles City College has provided quality hands-on professional theatre training, technology, and production experience unrivaled by larger universities and performing arts academies. The Theatre Academy provides each student with the principles and techniques, discipline, organization, and dedication to training required for success in the entertainment industry. All areas of the Academy – acting, technical theatre, and costuming – are showcased each year in six to eight professional level productions. Intensive production experience is complemented by our location just minutes from Hollywood, "the entertainment capital of the world."

 

 

Professional Actor Training – Level 1

Skill Certificate

The training introduces the student to acting fundamentals through specific movement and vocal techniques, character analysis, observation exercises, and scene study. The ultimate goal is to develop a firm foundation in basic acting skills and a strong respect and appreciation for all aspects of the theater. All training is geared toward preparing students for careers in acting and related industries.

 

COURSES                                                                               UNITS

Theater 100....................................................................................... 3

Theater 242........................................................................................ 3

Theater 270 ......................................................................................  3

Theater 300........................................................................................ 3

Theater 345........................................................................................ 2

Theater 346........................................................................................ 0

 

Total Units...................................................................................... 14

 

 

Professional Technical Theater – Level 1

Skill Certificate

Basic level training in equipment, procedures, principles, and techniques used in play production, construction, painting, lighting, properties, manipulation of stage scenery, special effects, and organization of stage activity. All training is geared towards preparing students for careers in technical theater and related industries.

 

COURSES                                                                               UNITS

Theater 100 ....................................................................................... 3

Theater 302 ....................................................................................... 3

Theater 325........................................................................................ 3

Theater 335........................................................................................ 2

Theater 336........................................................................................ 0

One of the following four

Theater 311........................................................................................ 3

Theater 313 ....................................................................................... 3

Theater 314........................................................................................ 3

Theater 315........................................................................................ 3

 

Total Units...................................................................................... 14

 

 

Professional Costuming Design – Level 1

Skill Certificate

Level 1 of the Professional Costuming program emphasizes, historic costume, costume design,  wardrobing, drawing, costume shop discipline and organization, sewing and stagecraft.  All training is geared towards preparing students for careers in costuming and related industries.

 

COURSES                                                                               UNITS

Theater 105........................................................................................ 1

Theater 425........................................................................................ 2

Theater 426........................................................................................ 0

Art 201.............................................................................................. 3

One of the following two:

Theater 300........................................................................................ 3

Theater 200........................................................................................ 3

One of the following five

Theater 400........................................................................................ 3

Theater 411........................................................................................ 3

Theater 413........................................................................................ 3

Theater 415........................................................................................ 3

Theater 416........................................................................................ 3

 

Total Units...................................................................................... 15
 

 

 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS 

 

NOTE: Not every class is offered each semester. Refer to the current class schedule for current class offerings.

PREREQUISITES: Specified prerequisites must be completed with a satisfactory grade or equivalent.

 

THEATER 100

Introduction to the Theatre

3 UNITS - (UC:CSU)

Advisory: English 101 or equivalent.

A survey of the various facets that make up the composite institution that is called the Theatre. The subjects covered range from the origins of drama to the present.

Credit is given for play attendance.

 

THEATER 105

Drama Digest

1 UNITS - (RPT 3) (CSU)

Enrollment required of Theater majors each semester of attendance.

The student’s theatrical experience is enriched through the observation of regularly scheduled programs consisting of acting scenes and exercises from the various Theater classes. The basic program is augmented by the appearance of guest artists or theater groups.

 

THEATER 110

History of the World Theatre

3 UNITS - (UC:CSU)

Advisory: English 101 or equivalent.

History of western theatre and its traditions from its primitive beginnings up to the present.

 

THEATER 200

Introduction to Acting

3 UNITS - (UC:CSU)

Through lecture, discussion, demonstration, and limited participation exercises, the student is introduced to the art and craft of acting.

 

THEATER 205

Actor’s Orientation to Professional Theatre

2 UNITS - (RPT 1) (CSU)

Co-requisite: Theater 270.

A survival course with emphasis on the business of being a working professional actor. Covers auditions, cold readings, agents, casting directors, photos, resumes,  and reviews. Includes a survey of employment opportunities in Los Angeles, New York, resident theatres, stock companies, and festivals.

 

THEATER 210

Introduction to Oral Interpretation of Dramatic Literature

3 UNITS - (RPT 1) (UC:CSU)

Prerequisite: Theater 270 with a satisfactory grade.

A study of the techniques of oral interpretation including phrasing, inflection, work relish, verse scansion, tempo and rhythm – designed to  develop the actor’s interpretive skills.

 

THEATER 225

Beginning Direction

3 UNITS - (UC:CSU)

Prerequisite: Theater 270 with a satisfactory grade.

A study of script analysis, casting, rehearsal scheduling, rehearsal problems and procedures, and orchestration of all production phases is made through lectures, reading assignments, class projects and the preparation of a complete director’s production script.     

 

THEATER 232

Play Production

2 UNITS – (RPT 3) (UC:CSU)

The student is given the opportunity to work intensely in one or more areas associated with  production: acting, voice, movement, mangement, costuming or technical theatre. Students must be prepared to work irregular hours.

 

THEATER 235

Play Production

5 UNITS - (RPT 3) (UC:CSU)

This course is generally offered in the summer session only. The student is given an opportunity to work intensely in one or more production areas: acting, management, costuming, or technical theatre. Students must be prepared to work irregular hours.             

 

THEATER 240

 Voice and Articulation for the Theatre

3 UNITS - (UC:CSU)

Credit allowed for only one of Theater 240 or Speech Communication 111.

Development of voice and speech skills, emphasizing clarity, precision, tone, dynamics and imaginative use of language. Individual goals will be set for performance and standards of improvement to help the student acquire the basics of good theatre speech.

 

THEATER 242

Voice Development Workshop

3 UNITS - (RPT 3) (CSU)

Co-requisite: Theater 270.

Vocal quality, strength, flexibility, control, and awareness are emphasized in group and individual exercises.         

 

THEATER 243

Dialects

2 UNITS - (RPT 1) (CSU)

Specific training in the performance of regional American dialects and foreign accents most often used in the theatre. 

 

THEATER 262

Special Projects

2 UNITS - (RPT 3) (CSU)

Prerequisite: Theater 270 with a satisfactory grade.

Advanced students are given the opportunity to plan, rehearse, stage and produce approved all student projects for presentation before student audiences.

 

THEATER 269

Period Movement

2 UNITS - (CSU)

Advisory: Theater 270 or equivalent.

A study is made of the acting styles and period movement from the Greek period to Modern. Class work includes individual coaching and culminates in presentations of scenes developed in the course.

 

THEATER 270

Beginning Acting

3 UNITS - (UC:CSU)

Co-requisite: Theater 100, 105, 277, 345 and 346.

This course introduces the student to acting fundamentals through specific movement techniques, pantomime and scene work. The ultimate goal is to develop a firm foundation in basic acting techniques and a strong respect and appreciation for all aspects of the theater.  Enrollment subject to audition, see catalog.

 

THEATER 271

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