THEA 105B: Improvisation for the Theatre - Intermediate

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2024
Credits: 3
Total Contact Hours: 54
Lecture Hours : 54
Lab Hours: 0
Hours Arranged: 0
Outside of Class Hours: 108
Total Student Learning Hours: 162
Prerequisite: THEA 105A.
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: Yes - Approved
Grading Method: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass

Catalog Course Description

An intermediate course using the techniques of improvisation to enhance character development. Focus is on deepening the concepts of group expression, problem-solving, focus, imagination, concentration and spontaneity with and without dramatic text in a variety of character genres. 54 lecture hours.

Course Objectives

  • Demonstrate a deeper and more specific understanding of how character traits can be developed through spontaneous interaction.
  • Demonstrate a deeper and more specific understanding using the Stanislavski Method of a character's psychology.
  • Broaden and utilize their base of tools necessary to create character background and character relationships from a neutral canvas.
  • Utilize knowledge of physical exercises that heighten concentration.
  • Create and demonstrate various possibilities for props and furniture placement in order to heighten theatricality.
  • Build upon sensory awareness and how the senses heighten theatricality and embody unique and diverse perspectives.
  • Broaden their base of "actable" actions in pursuit of strong characterizations within various given circumstances.

Major Course Content

  1. Review the concepts of THEA 105A
    1. In-depth review of the Stanislavski Method and how it applies to Improvisation
  2. Introducing Building a Play from Improvisation
    1. Where plot is predominant
    2. Where character is our prime concern
    3. Where dialogue shapes the play
    4. Where a theme is the starting point
    5. Starting from an incomplete script.
  3. Introducing Improvising using a scripted text
    1. Understanding the nature of a dramatic text
    2. Seeing the play as a living whole
    3. Understanding the kind of play
    4. Organic blocking and boundary setting vs. directed blocking with limitations or direction from an intimacy coordinator
    5. Meeting and knowing scripted characters from an improvisational point of view

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

A journal building upon that of THEA 105A documenting character growth and script development through improvisational techniques is required.

Examples of Outside Assignments

A continuation of observing people and animals for character and script development.

Instruction Type(s)

Lecture