Course Syllabus

THEA 2901 Theatre Capstone

Course Description

This course provides students the opportunity to demonstrate mastery of the concepts and skills necessary for continuation in their field of study in the arts. The course is cross-circular and project-based; reflecting back on student’s previous theatrical work and experiences and integrating those skills into a platform designed to market their abilities. Students will propose and complete projects designed to show their abilities and present these in a public forum, either live or online. Examples of these projects might include solo performances, audio or video recording of works, or the preparation of an online portfolio. In addition to completing the project, students will learn the skills necessary to present the project, including the necessary computer, print, design, and marketing skills necessary to present their materials to the public.

Justification

As theatre students prepare to leave Snow College they are faced with a number of choices, including the decision to seek additional education or to enter into the workplace. Whatever the choice, a prospective employer or transfer institution will require that students be able to demonstrate the skills acquired during their study at Snow. Either case carries with it the same entrepreneurial perspective. Given the current nature of professional theatrical work (movements away from collective work and set theatre companies) actors, designers, managers, technicians, etc. are sole proprietors of their own brand and business.
This course is designed to help students develop business marketing techniques, understand the complexity of the entertainment industry, gather and refine previously created materials that show what skills and knowledge they have mastered, and to compile, supplement, edit and prepare to present these materials in a marketable way using a variety of traditional and electronic methods. Similar courses exist in other disciplines at Snow College. This is common core in the theatre program.

General Education Knowledge Area Outcomes

1. Students will present and communicate both in class and in groups. They will evaluate each other and receive grades and feedback from the instructor. Presentations include demonstration of online portfolios and websites, mock auditions and interviews, and networking projects. Students will learn how to overcome objections using multiple techniques with an emphasis on doing so respectfully. Students will receive feedback from peers and the instructor. Peer revision and creative critique will also allow students to demonstrate collective work and self-assess.  Students will present and communicate both in class and in groups. They will evaluate each other and receive grades and feedback from the instructor. Presentations include demonstration of online portfolios and websites, mock auditions and interviews, and networking projects. Students will learn how to overcome objections using multiple techniques with an emphasis on doing so respectfully. Students will receive feedback from peers and the instructor. Peer revision and creative critique will also allow students to demonstrate collective work and self-assess.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Reflect on previous courses and skills mastered at Snow College.
2. Create presentations and digital portfolios.
3. Present a portfolio or performance in a public setting.
4. Communicate with professionals in the field and/or advisers in their discipline.
5. Collaborate with others to gather, compile and edit materials for portfolios or performances.

Course Content

Students will learn the necessary skills to put together a final project, including, but not limited to: Traditional presentation options (print, live presentation); Electronic presentation options (PowerPoint, video, online); Review of employment and transfer options; Contacting prospective employers or key personnel at transfer institutions; and Gathering and editing materials.