Movement for the Actor I

Movement for the Actor I

Fall 2007, T/Th 8:30am-10:00 am

Course: THEA 2337 Sections: 14238, 14239

University of Houston School of Theatre & Dance

Instructor: Brian Byrnes, Associate Professor -- office hours by appointment -- (713) 743-1788

Theme: “Physical Awareness for the Actor”

Learning Outcomes:

Students will develop a physical awareness and conditioning skills in order to prepare them for the professional theatrical market.

Course Objectives:

This will be a physically challenging course. We will work to develop your theatrical conditioning by incorporating a variety of physical disciplines such as Mao Exercise and Tai Chi. These skills help to develop focus, centering, grounding, physical control, breath effort, core strength, action and counter-action, precision, economy of effort, full commitment to an effort, extension of line, alignment, full body awareness, and ensemble effort. Another very important factor this semester will rely on Partnering Work. I encourage you to develop the best stage partnering skills you are able -- including: commitment, trust, ability to give and take, encouragement, and consistency. This kind of detailed effort is essential for a performer.

Course Requirements:

Participation: Prompt (to class on time – you are “late” to class if you show up after roll call – you must be in the room while roll is being taken). Prepared (dressed out in work out gear and ready to work at the top of class – you must wear workout gear that covers your torso and at least 3/4 length “sweats” or tights – no mid-rift shirts and no shorts or pants will be acceptable – do not expect to “dress out” after roll has been taken). We will often work barefoot in this class – therefore, you must have clean feet before you enter the room. If we are working in shoes, only tennis shoes, sports shoes, dance shoes and the like will be allowed for class use. No street shoes, sandals, clogs, etc. will not be allowed for class. In order for class to be as productive as possible for the students who are on time for class, the door to the classroom may be locked after roll has been taken. If you are late to class, and the door is locked, you will not participate in class that day and it may be counted as an absence. In order to find and understand the progression of the class training, commit to the exercises at hand. Watch, listen, and contribute in discussions.

Rehearsal: You are expected to do individual practice and rehearsal outside of class, as well as with your performance partners.

Performance Assignments: Performance assignments must be fully rehearsed and ready to present. If you incorporate sound or lights into your performance work, you are responsible for all technical aspects of your performance.

Writing Assignments: You are required to attend and critique two plays. You will have a variety of plays to choose from, and will write a movement critique focusing on a particular aspect of the performance. At least one of the plays must be a professionally produced work. Critiques must be typed and turned in as a hardcopy by the due date and time assigned.

No late assignments: No late assignments will be accepted, either written or performance assignments.

Conferences: You are required to schedule at least one meeting with the Instructor during the course of the semester. This will be an opportunity to discuss your progress and current standing for the class.

Grading:

30% - Overall Assessment of Studio Work will be based on the following (15% MidTerm, 15% End):

Talent: The innate ability to perform the work. Talent cannot be taught. It is a gift. However, talent can be

improved by focused training and the acquisition of technique.

Potential: One who shows promise for eventual success in the profession of theatre. In order to advance on to

Movement for the Actor II, the student must demonstrate distinct talent and potential.

Trainability: The ability of the actor/performer to respond to and develop with training. Students who have

demonstrated talent and professional potential but who do not, cannot, or will not respond to the training will not advance on to Movement for the Actor II.

25% - Performance Assignments (five assignments -- 5% each)

20% - Classroom Participation (promptness, preparation, participation) (10% MidTerm, 10% End)

10% - Movement Critiques of Plays (two critiques -- 5% each)

5% - Quiz (Beginning of Semester Quiz)

10% - Final Project

Also Note: We will adhere the School of Theatre & Dance “Attendance Policy” regarding your over-all grade. We will also adhere to the School of Theatre & Dance “Grade and GPA Protocol” document. These documents can be found on the School of Theatre & Dance website ( via the Forms & Policies link. You are expected read and understand these documents. If you need clarification, please ask.