Course Syllabus

THEA 2080 Theatre Improvisation

Course Description

This course is an exploration of spontaneous movement
and expression through improvisation. Students will
explore individual and group creativity, timing,
inventiveness, discovery of emotion, and thought
processes. The course provides opportunity for both
theoretical and practical experiences in the various
aspects of movement improvisation, presentation,
research and structure in vocal delivery. This course is
repeatable for credit.

Justification

Theatre departments offer similar courses nationwide and throughout the state. It fills a lower division course for theatre majors. “Take improv off the special skills section of your resume.You're an actor. That's a skill I expect you to have.”-Rick Kostenick, LA Talent Agent, to a young actorA basic understanding of theatrical improvisation shouldbe taught as it develops skills specifically related to thefield of acting and the theatre as well as soft skillsapplicable to a variety of work environments in andoutside the theatre. Theatrical improvisation develops one's abilities to adapt to changing environments, solve problems creatively, and work supportively and collaboratively with others.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. As students perform in games and scenes withinthe architecture of improv, they will be able toidentify and play in both long and short-formimprov styles supportively and collaborativelywith their cast mates.
2. As students construct their own shows (curating
   sets, casting performers, and hosting), they will
   be able to strategize, identify strengths and
   vulnerabilities of others, and communicate clearly
   and compassionately, while adapting to the
   ever-changing environment of live improvised
   theatre.
3. Students will be able to identify the base reality
   (who, what, where) of scenes and the
   accompanying “game” of comedic scenes as well
   as specific “form” (framework).

Course Content

Course topics and learning asks include basic warm-ups,exploring “yes, and…” and “if, then…”, short-Form games,scenic improv and long-form styles, emphasizing basereality and game, hosting, and curating a 60-90 minuteshow to be performed on weekends and when touring.