THEA 130: Introduction to Scenic Design & Art Direction for Theatre and Film

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2024
Credits: 3
Total Contact Hours: 72
Lecture Hours : 54
Lab Hours: 18
Hours Arranged: 0
Outside of Class Hours: 108
Total Student Learning Hours: 180
Prerequisite: THEA 120.
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: Yes - Approved
Grading Method: Standard Letter

Catalog Course Description

A study of the equipment, software, processes and techniques used in planning and executing scenery for the stage. 54 lecture hours, 18 lab hours.

Course Objectives

  • describe the artistic relationship of stage scenery to the overall design concept
  • explain the principles of scenic design and construction
  • anticipate and execute an appropriate design for a stage setting
  • construct a basic stage flat
  • construct soft and solid scenic elements
  • demonstrate painting techniques
  • anticipate safety requirements in the construction and handling of scenic elements
  • coordinate the use of stage props with stage scenery
  • use scenic design software to achieve a basic groundplan for the stage

Major Course Content

  1. Identify the relationship of the scenic designer with the rest of the production team.
  2. Dissect the various steps of analyzing and creating a scenic design for theatre, television, film and concerts.
  3. Dissect, comprehend and analyze the differences and similarities of scenic design for theatre, television, film and concerts.
  4. Analyze the occupation of the scenic designer.
  5. Design a small theatre production.
  6. Design a single set for a television program.
  7. Research and design and create a scale model for a music concerts.
  8. Research and design a location shoot for film.
  9. Use software to design, edit and complete a basic set of construction drawings

Lab Content

  1. Guided instruction in construction, paint and assembly of scenic pieces.
  2. Guided instruction in designing and painting a facade.
  3. Guided instruction in assisting a scenic designer.
  4. Guided instruction in designing, creating and assembling a scale model for a production.
  5. Guided instruction in vectorworks.

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

Short papers on concept, design approach, and evaluation of peer & professional design.

Examples of Outside Assignments

Scenic design for theatre. Scenic design for a television show. Scenic design for a stage concert.

Instruction Type(s)

Lab, Lecture, Online Education Lab, Online Education Lecture