ENRICHMENT COURSES

The following courses are available to Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors. They do not satisfy the English requirement for the Senior Year and may be taken in addition to required English courses.

Introduction To Technical Theater
Introduction to Acting
Advanced Dramatics

Introduction To Technical Theater – Grades 10, 11, 12
Half Year - Level E Credits 2.5

This course will provide students with an overview of components of technical theater productions. Units include set design and construction, lighting design and application, sound production, costume research and design, and theater safety regulations. Students will apply their knowledge of technical theater to the actual production of selected plays. The course does not satisfy the English requirement and may be taken in addition to the required English course(s).

Essential Benchmarks – Students will:
· Recognize and understand the responsibilities of the director
· Understand the expertise associated with various occupations in theater
· Understand and use the language of technical theater
· Demonstrate an understanding of the aesthetic and practical requirements of theatrical design.

Introduction to Acting – Grades 10, 11, 12
Half Year - Level E Credits 2.5

This course will provide students with an overview of theater history and acting styles. Units include Greek and Roman theater, Eastern theater, Medieval and Elizabethan theater, Restoration comedy, and modern theater. It also will include the study of voice, movement, character analysis, staging, and directing. Students will apply their knowledge to the actual production of selected scenes and plays. The course does not satisfy the English requirement and may be taken in addition to the required English course(s).

Essential Benchmarks – Students will:
· Use voice and movement for conscious communication of thought, feeling, and character
· Demonstrate skill in improvising action, dialogue and character
· Demonstrate skills of physical, emotional, and social analysis through creating characters
· Critically evaluate the work of classmates.

Advanced Dramatics – Grades 11, 12
Full Year - Level H Credits 5

This full-year course is designed for talented and gifted students interested in dramatic arts. Advanced Dramatics follows the outline of Introduction to Technical Theatre and to Acting with strong emphasis on application and performance. Students will apply their knowledge of acting and technical theatre skills. Research and presentations are required. Students should expect written assignments ranging from research reports to character and scene analyses. Performances will supplement the course experience with competition in the Connecticut Drama Association Festival. Enrollment is limited to those who have instructor approval. This course does not satisfy the English requirement and may be taken in addition to the required English course(s).

Essential Benchmarks – Students will:
· Demonstrate advanced skills in improvising action, dialogue, and character
· Demonstrate skill in analysis and interpretation of characters in plays
· Demonstrate advanced skill in implementing previously learned acting concepts
· Critically evaluate the work of classmates.