MUSP 170: Musical Theatre Academy Production

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2020
Credits: 4
Total Contact Hours: 162
Lecture Hours : 36
Lab Hours: 126
Hours Arranged: 0
Outside of Class Hours: 72
Prerequisite: Audition.
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: Yes - Approved
Grading Method: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass

Catalog Course Description

An in-depth survey of the skills necessary for the performer in a live musical theatre production. Emphasis on the audition process, script analysis, role preparation, theatre and rehearsal etiquette and rehearsal technique culminating in a live, full-length fully-produced musical. 36 lecture hours, 126 lab hours.

Course Objectives

  • demonstrate familiarity with the specialized vocabulary of musical theatre
  • describe the processes involved in translating a character to musical sound and physical movement
  • demonstrate knowledge of and familiarity with standard stage literature as appropriate to production
  • demonstrate techniques of script and character analysis and research
  • demonstrate knowledge of rehearsal and performance techniques
  • demonstrate basic knowledge of technical aspects of a musical theatre production such as set design and lighting

Major Course Content

  1. Stage Vocabulary and Overview of Basic Musical Comedy Literature
  2. Elements of Musical Theatre Production
    1. Review and analysis of script
    2. Learning the music
    3. Translating the character to music
    4. Translating musical thought to movement
  3. Techniques of the Audition Process
    1. Choosing appropriate audition materials
    2. Preparation/appearance
    3. The audition
    4. Developing a personal library
  4. The Script: Analysis and Evaluation
    1. Why research a play
    2. How to research a play
    3. Translating research to the stage
  5. The Character: Analysis and Evaluation
    1. Why research a character
    2. How to research a character
    3. Translating research to the stage
    4. Blocking
  6. The Role and Function of the Ensemble
    1. Supporting roles
    2. The importance of a chorus
  7. Theatre/Rehearsal Etiquette
    1. Respect for theatre property
    2. Respect for actors/technicians
    3. Expectations of the performer
  8. The Role of Designer and Technical Support
    1. Designers
    2. Technical Support
    3. Equipment

Lab Content

  1. Integration of the Elements of Rehearsal Techniques
  2. Preparation for Final Performance
  3. Final Performance
  4. Project Review and Evaluation

Suggested Reading Other Than Required Textbook

Trade papers Audition information Playbills Backstage West

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

Develop a character profile Complete a performance assessment

Examples of Outside Assignments

Write a one page character analysis Keep a rehearsal journal Review music, choreography and blocking giving during class Attend plays or watch DVD's studying performance skills

Instruction Type(s)

Lecture, Lab