THEA 293A: Theatre for Young Audiences- Beginning

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2020
Credits: 3
Total Contact Hours: 80
Lecture Hours : 54
Lab Hours: 26
Hours Arranged: 0
Outside of Class Hours: 108
Strongly Recommended: ENGL 101.
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: Yes - Approved
Grading Method: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass

Catalog Course Description

A fundamental introduction to theatre for child audiences. Students are required to participate in a theatrical production for young audiences. Content includes an introduction to techniques towards leading creative dramatic workshops. Along with "on-campus" performances, the production may include a tour to local elementary schools. In-class and out-of-class rehearsals may be necessary to complete production. 54 lecture hours, 26 lab hours.

Course Objectives

  • Demonstrate understanding of the demands of preparing a theatrical production for young audiences
  • Create and select appropriate material for performance for young audiences
  • Demonstrate the differences in performance technique for young audiences as opposed to more mature audiences.

Major Course Content

  1. The Child as Spectator: Performing Theatre for Young Audiences
    1. Conventions of theatre for children
      1. history: storytelling to dramatization
      2. participatory vs. non-participatory
        1. directed participation
        2. stimulated participation
        3. spontaneous participation
      3. stage configuration
        1. types of stages
        2. use of aisles and audience
    2. Production demands: respecting the child spectator
      1. characterization vs. "playing down"
      2. visual elements and use of music
      3. controlling the child audience
      4. the importance of warm-ups for the actor
        1. concentration
        2. sensitivity and spatial awareness
        3. physical and vocal
        4. spontaneity
    3. Towards an aesthetic: selecting material for performance
      1. purpose
      2. significance
      3. audience
      4. style
      5. space
      6. adaptability
  2. The Child as Participant: Introducing techniques in leading creative dramatics sessions
    1. The 'introverted child' vs. the 'extroverted child'
      1. positive vs. negative reinforcement
      2. empowerment
      3. vocal awareness
      4. physical awareness

Lab Content

  1. Learn and rehearse children's play scripts.
  2. Learn and rehearse acting techniques geared towards reaching younger audiences.
  3. Preparation for final performance.
  4. Final performance.

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

A two - three page critical analysis of a play specifically geared towards young audiences.

Examples of Outside Assignments

Memorizing lines Memorizing blocking Viewing outside productions Attending outside rehearsals

Instruction Type(s)

Lecture, Lab