THTR 1061 - Fundamentals of Stage Directing

Credits: 3
Hours/Week: Lecture 3 Lab 0
Course Description: This course introduces the beginning director to the basic tools of the director’s craft. Course topics include the basics of interpretation, blocking, movement, composition, communication, and terminology of stage direction. The needs of students interested in theatre, acting, television, film, video production, or elementary and secondary education are served by this course.
MnTC Goals
N/A

Prerequisite(s): None
Recommendation: THTR 1020

 

Major Content

1. Basic Functions of the Director
2. Theatrical Concepts:

1. The world of the play (where, when, social climate, style)
2. Characters (who, what, polar attitudes)
3. Action
4. Conflict
5. Objective
6. Interpretation

3. Concepts of Staging:

1. Composition
2. Picturization
3. Movement

4. Working with Actors:

1. Communication
2. Concepts
3. Vocabulary
4. Perspective

5. Working with Designers:

1. Prepararation before communication with designers
2. Expectations of the director
3. Director/Designer communication

 
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. explain concepts fundamental to the art and craft of directing including script and character analysis, stage blocking, and stage balance.
2. analyze a text for information regarding the world of the play, character, action, and interpretation.
3. create meaningful stage pictures using techniques of composition and picturization.
4. apply rhythm to movement of the stage picture.
5. explore and stage multiple meanings of a text.
6. demonstrate positive communication strategies in working with actors.

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