MUSP 171: Musical Theatre Workshop Production

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2021
Credits: 4
Total Contact Hours: 144
Lecture Hours : 36
Lab Hours: 0
Hours Arranged: 108
Outside of Class Hours: 72
Prerequisite: Audition.
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: No
Grading Method: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass

Catalog Course Description

A practical overview of, and creative workshop on, the process and skills of developing, producing, and performing in a musical. Emphasis on script analysis, character development, production themes, and vocal production, culminating in a live, full-length, fully-produced musical. 36 lecture hours, 108 lab hours arranged.

Course Objectives

  • Exhibit the specialized vocabulary of musical theatre
  • Analyze character background and interaction. Characterize the function of each role in the musical
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the technical elements of production.
  • Apply proper rehearsal techniques and etiquette during the production process.

Major Course Content

  1. Audition for musical production
  2. Overview of Production
  3. Theatre/Production Etiquette
  4. Movement/Choreography Technique
  5. Blocking technique
  6. Vocal Technique
  7. Character Analysis
  8. Workshop Fundamentals - Collaborative Production Design
  9. Technical Elements

Hours Arranged Content

  1. Character Analysis Workshop
  2. Group Dynamic Production Activities
  3. Learn and Rehearse Blocking, Music, Choreography
  4. Integrate vocal, staging and choreographic techniques and develop a character
  5. Preparation of Final Performance
  6. Final Performance
  7. Production Review and Evaluation

 Application of course objectives and development of techniques required for successful completion of the laboratory requirements of this course are time intensive.  The student is responsible for demonstrating a practical competency of skills applied to a full length Musical Theatre Production (Typical performance running time in excess of two and a half hours).  Music rehearsals include sectionals and full group preparation including accurately mastering then memorizing vocal parts, creating vocal unisons within each section, establishing appropriate phrasing, breathing techniques and dynamics, use of appropriate tone and application of correct vocal production.  Staging rehearsals include learning choreography for musical numbers and blocking dialogue sequences; focus on accuracy, style and purpose will be addressed.   Additional activities include combining singing, dancing and acting skills while creating a character, detailing interpersonal relationships with other characters, storytelling, internalizing interpretation of lyric, movement, emotion and developing relevant performance skills.  During the final weeks of the course laboratory hours include working through the entire show, detailing material, addressing pace, style and professionalism and then technical, sound and dress rehearsals prior to a series of public performances.

Suggested Reading Other Than Required Textbook

Reference materials on composers, playwrights and other pertinent creators of the play. Research historical people, places and times as applicable to the play.

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

A six-page character analysis, workshop review, and production assessment is required.

Examples of Outside Assignments

Memorize and rehearse lines, blocking, and music

Instruction Type(s)

Lecture, Lab, Online Education Lecture, Online Education Lab