Current Student Topics Courses

28925

Fine, Zack

MW 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

Incorporating language as action by applying basic principles to the demand of Shakespearean text.

28575

Meador, Rachel

TTH 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Floor-Barre is a gentle, highly effective, therapeutic method. Exercises are executed lying on the floor to focus inward, working muscles deeply and intelligently without the pressure of gravity. Floor-Barre lengthens, corrects alignment and strengthens joints. Rachel Meador is currently the only certified Floor-Barre instructor in Texas and brings this cross training to students and professional dance artists of all levels.

28580

Riley, Magda

TTH 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

A study of the elements of classical ballet through exploration of movement principles as defined by traditional ballet technique.

28584

Upchurch, Aysha

MW 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Mixed level class open to all who want to grow their knowledge and skill on Hip Hop and street dance fundamentals.

28579

MW 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Open to all majors and fitness levels, this course introduces the GYROKINESIS® method - a conditioning secret used by professional athletes and dancers to build a resilient, balanced body. Through rhythmic, flowing sequences rooted in Yoga, Tai-Chi, and gymnastics, students will work the entire body to increase range of motion and develop functional strength. While no prior movement experience is required, the practice offers a deep, multi-dimensional challenge for seasoned athletes and beginners alike. 

28964 (undergrad) + 29169 (grad)

Maness, Karen

TTH 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

This course will provide practice in drawing and painting architecture, natural environments, color and value use for image creation, and finish techniques for the entertainment industry. The skills learned in this course will support work in both physically constructed and digitally created narrative environments. Applicable careers for this training include scenic art, scenic design, art direction, production design, illustration, game design, themed attraction, concept art, and mural art.

28965 (undergrad) + 29214 (grad)

Arevalo, David

M 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM; W 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

This course introduces foundational draping and flat pattern-making techniques used to create historical silhouettes for live performance. Working on full-size forms, students learn to interpret costume designs, develop muslins, and build supportive foundation garments that shape both period and contemporary looks. Emphasis is placed on research-informed pattern-making, fitting, and professional costume shop practice. 

28970 (undergrad) + 29175 (grad)

Buchanan, Jason

F 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Learn the art and skills of drawing a storyboard. A storyboard is a set of sequential drawings used to tell a story, a graphic organizer that helps to illustrate a narrative. Used often in entertainment applications like film, TV, theatre, gaming, and immersive experiences, storyboards are also valuable in the development of advertising videos or demonstrating a production process.

28975

Smith, Matthew

TTH 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

This course is a lecture/lab course designed to introduce students to the basic concepts, methods, and systems utilized in the fields of live entertainment and immersive artistic practices. The primary focus is to explore core technologies and illuminate how each area of work within projection, lighting, sound, and interactivity relates and is connected to others. Topics include: lighting, projection, digital audio systems, recording techniques, previsualization and content creation.

28980 (undergrad) + 29170 (grad)

Arevalo, David

TTH 9:00 AM - 10:30AM

This course introduces 3D modeling using the open-source software Blender, with a focus on preparing models for 3D printing. The course is further focused on how these tools and practices can be best utilized for sewable elements, accessories, and materials used in costumes and wearable art. Students will learn the fundamental concepts and techniques of 3D modeling in Blender, including how to create and alter basic and complex shapes, utilize various tools and modifiers, and setup the program for a 3D printing workflow. The course will introduce advanced modeling techniques like sculpting and manipulating various filetypes, as well as the process of preparing and exporting models for 3D printing. Students will be introduced to multiple machines, processes, and material types for various applications of 3D printing technology. In the latter half of the course, utilizing techniques and skills developed through their first projects, students will design, develop, and fabricate a project of their own that can be worn on the body/utilized in costume making. Students will learn techniques through in-class demonstrations and lectures presented by the faculty. To help meet learning styles and needs - video recording, photographs, and note taking are all allowed and encouraged during lectures. This course meets in-person.

28984 (undergrad) + 29154 (grad)

Habeck, Michelle

MW 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

This course introduces console programming using ETC Ion and ETC High End lighting consoles. The course is focused on how these tools and practices can prepare a designer to create lighting for live performance, events, and music or concert events. Students will be introduced to console setup, console organization, console magic sheets, cue sheets and cue stacks, lighting effects, moving light and conventional light programming. Students will be exposed to multiple processes for programming. Students will learn through hands on training with in-person/in-class support and engage with high level online training modules to build skills onsite with a console and at home on a laptop. Students will utilize techniques and skills developed throughout the semester to design and develop a series of practical show files and live lighting events culminating in a full class lighting spectacle. This course meets in-person.

28985

Boone, David "Seb"

TTH 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

Lighting Technology will expose the students to several lighting components utilized by the Lighting Technician (Entertainment Electrician). The class will discuss the basics of electricity and the hanging and focusing of various lighting fixtures. Students will also discuss the use of consoles, dimmers, and networks. Students will be given hands-on opportunities throughout the semester.

28990

Williams, Stephanie

MW 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

Makeup for the Performer is an entry level course to Makeup Design. No prior experience necessary. This class gives students the opportunity to explore and expand their artistic and visual expression while gaining practical hands-on experience. This course provides training in both makeup design and application. It is a chance to explore makeup techniques and products available so as a performer you are equipped for future opportunities. We also learn to use makeup as a tool in character development. This course will also cover the importance of a cohesive concept, discussing styling of performers' hair, wig prep, application of facial hair, and the basics of the makeup design creation process. The skills learned in the course will prepare performers to use makeup as one of their many tools, as well as groundwork for those interested in diving deeper into the possibilities of careers as a performer or specifically in the Makeup industry.

28995

Smith, Matthew; Evans, Kyle

TTH 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

This course is a lecture/lab course designed to introduce students to the basic concepts, methods, and systems utilized in the fields of live entertainment and immersive artistic practices. The primary focus is to explore core technologies and illuminate how each area of work within projection, lighting, sound and interactivity relates and is connected to others. Topics include: lighting, projection, digital audio systems, recording techniques, previsualization and content creation.

29000 

Owen, Phillip

TTH 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

The goal of this skill-development course is to develop your ability to understand and execute the technical and mechanical sound and audio needs of a theatrical production. This includes, but is not limited to: an understanding of sound physics, sound reinforcement, mixing, digital audio workstations, cueing and playback, and troubleshooting. Sound Design, an umbrella term for all things related to theatrical sound, is a theatrical design discipline like scenic, costume, and lighting. It requires a unique type of knowledge and skillset. It requires study and practice, while also drawing from a myriad of backgrounds and experiences the student may already possess. Sound Technology is the complimentary technical side of Sound Design and is necessary for both designers and engineers to understand how to do their respective jobs. This course will provide the student with a general overview in the specific areas of sound systems and technology and a brief introduction to sound design, along with how they relate to other aspects of the production. Unlike other audio courses in Recording or Mixing, for example, this course is offered within the scope of Sound Design for the theatre.

29005

Williams, Stephanie

F 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

This is an advanced makeup course. In this semester of Special Effects Character Makeup we will dive deep into the world of all things fantasy, gore, and more. The power of makeup far extends past all things considered traditionally beautiful. Creating such characters as elves, goblins, vampires, wounded warriors, zombies and others requires additional techniques and a different approach from the standard makeup application. All of these looks and taking them to the next level of cool, creepy, and scary became possible through the evolution of SFX makeup. This class is designed for you to think outside of the box and for passionate individuals to fully explore their creative sides.

29010

Acosta, Nanette

TTH 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Fundamentals of research, drawing, rendering, and script/character analysis and critique for costume design.

29020

Laratta, Lisa

TTH 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Fundamentals of designing, drafting, and model building of scenery for theatrical and film designers.

29030 (undergrad) + 29169 (grad)

Reynoso Calvillo, Josafath

W 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Introduction to the conceptualization and design of scenery for the theatre.

29035

Cloyes, Rusty

MW 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

The purpose of this course is for you to learn specific aspects of the stage management process for a theatrical production. We will discuss the function of various members of the production team and how the stage manager interaction with each member of this team varies. We will talk about the process of rehearsing a show, from auditions to closing night. We will discuss the process involved for several of the design areas. Most importantly, the role of the stage manager as the hub of communication for a production will be examined and experienced.

29149

Barreto, Raquel

W 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

29150

Freer, Kate

M 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Explore translations of multimedia in a variety of industries. Directly engage with industry professionals from live performance, museum, installation, concert, advertising, and XR spaces. Experience leadership and supporting roles in a laboratory setting that will foster academic growth and career development.

29155

Reynoso Calvillo, Josafath

This course offers an introduction to the practice of designing for live performances by providing a live forum for exercises, discussions, and encounters. 

29205

Habeck, Michelle

TTH 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Portfolio for Design and Production is a seminar course for third-year graduate candidates and fourth-year undergraduates in Live Design and Production. The goal of the course is to bridge academic study to the profession and to prepare the cohort for entry into various fields and entry points relative to their chosen focus of study.

29210

Freer, Kate

M 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

This course will explore the application of projection design in live performance. Students will develop a shared vocabulary and skillset to discuss and create a comprehensive projections design as a core member of the collaborative team. This course includes assignments on design ideas, research, systems, content creation, and design execution. Students will have the opportunity to discuss, develop, and design for multiple projects in class, both individually and in small groups. The goal of the course is to have a fundamental knowledge of not only the skills and techniques needed, but the meaning and impact of the choices made by a projection designer on their collaborators, the production, the audience, and the greater theatrical landscape.

29045

Vasquez Toral, Enzo

TTH 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM

This course offers an overview of theatre, dance, and performance traditions by Native American and Indigenous communities in the Americas across time. Focusing on individual performers and specific Indigenous groups, students will be introduced to artistic works that wrestle with concepts such as indigeneity, authenticity, coloniality, performance, among others. No prior coursework is required for enrollment, but familiarity with artistic or visual analysis is welcome.

29055 (undergrad) + 29120 (grad)

Merrill Moss, Rachel

TTH 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Focusing on Poland, Ukraine, and Belarus, this course critically explores theatrical performances that engage with national identity construction (taken broadly) from the turbulent 20th century into the present moment. Examining historical and contemporary case studies from each individual country over an historical period in which they each lost and regained sovereignty, we will also explore and contextualize transnational minority performances, such as Jewish theatre, as they intersect with national frames.

29130

Davidson, Celina

W 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

28930

Grise, Virginia

MW 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

This class will explore artistic citizenship, artivism, and socially engaged artists across disciplines including music, theatre, dance, and the visual arts whose work centers the building of community as art practice. Through a series of readings, archival documentation and footage, guest lectures and community site visits, our study will draw a particular focus on process, collaboration and art-making as an act of world-building across the arts.

28935 (undergrad) + 29085 (grad)

Bassett, Alexandra

TTH 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Viewpoints Training is an actor training program which is also valuable training for directors, dramaturgs, writers, and designers. For the actor, it is a system of techniques that help performers be more fully present and more physically dynamic on stage, in order to communicate to the audience on a visceral level. For anyone on a creative team, Viewpoints Training becomes a tool for orchestrating the physical world on stage, with a focus on visual and auditory composition and control of time and space on stage.

28940 (undergrad) + 29090 (grad)

Bassett, Alexandra; Sanchez, KJ

T 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

This is a practicum workshop course for all playwrights, directors, designers, and theatre makers who will be in a production process during the Theatre and Dance school year. Whether they are working on a Studio Production, UTNT, Season Subscription, or other performing venue, students will examine their production processes and develop techniques for better leading, navigating, and flourishing in production process, so that their art-making can reach its fullest potential. 

28890 (undergrad) + 29125 (grad)

Hoare, Lynn

F 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM

This class introduces the Performing Justice Project (PJP), a flexible framework for devising original performance with young people that focuses on questions of gender and racial justice. This class will operate in two phases: in the first part of the semester we will activate the PJP framework, playing with embodied and participatory performance actions to consider core PJP questions in relation to our own lives and experiences: "Who am I? What is (in)justice and how does it show up in my life? How do I imagine and perform justice?" Phase one will simultaneously focus on preparing, performing, and producing a PJP residency with youth participants. During the second phase of the semester, we will divide into teams to work with young people in the community to devise a SHORT PJP performance. The course will culminate in a shared performance with/by young people for an invited audience. The second phase of the course will require availability outside of the class meeting time to work with your community partner. All students will participate in both phases: using performance actions in our class to explore ensemble, identity and (in)justice, as well as leading others through a process of building original performance that explores core PJP questions.

29060 (undergrad) + 29135 (grad)

Hoare, Lynn

W 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

In this course, participants explore the crisis of mental health, disconnection, and loneliness that disproportionately affects college-aged populations. Students investigate how the arts serve as a public health strategy to promote wellness and foster community. Arts-based and embodied methods will be integrated throughout the course to delve into themes of disconnection, connection, belonging, identity, and the dynamics of culture and community. Through theatre-based strategies, students will begin to create a performance piece that addresses loneliness, disconnection and belonging.

29095

M 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Through a series of readings, guest lectures and community site visits, this class will explore artistic citizenship, artivism, and the work of socially engaged artists across disciplines including music, theatre, dance, and the visual arts.