MANHATTANVILLE COLLEGE

Music and Dance & Theatre Departments

CABARET PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP

Fall:MUA 2071 or DTH 2071 (2 credits)

Spring: MUA 2072 or DTH 2072 (2 credits)

 

Mark Cherry, Director & Musical Director; x5113; e-mail: cherrym@mville.edu

Admission to this course by permission of Instructor or the Department Chairmen.

 

Focus of this performance workshop is the successful communication of song to an intimate audience. Depending upon class size, students are assigned at least one solo, one or more ensemble songs (duets, trios, etc.), and monologue material appropriate to a cabaret setting. Communication and interpretive skills will be developed, with as much one-on-one coaching as is possible. Songs will be analyzed for text, music, and interpretation, with an eye toward understanding historical and societal context. Class structure is similar to an acting class, with all students observing when not performing. Course culminates in one performance evening.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

This is a studio course requiring active and regular participation. Attendance is mandatory. Absences and lateness will adversely affect your grade. Professional theatre etiquette is expected:

                        Be on time and ready to work.

                        Be prepared (i.e. assigned work memorized on time).

                        Be dressed to move freely; long hair must be pulled away from face.

                        Be focused and involved in the rehearsal process.

                        Be respectful and supportive of other class members.

As with any professional company, you MUST notify the director by campus voice mail or e-mail if extenuating circumstances force you to be absent or late. Illness, injury, or family emergency must subsequently be documented through regular College channels.

 

ASSIGNMENTS:

In addition to the studio work, students will keep a journal of the course work, which will be inspected periodically, and be due in its entirety at the end of the course. Journal entries are expected to chronicle the student's progress with the material through the application of exercises (student's individual private practice), class work and observation, and research. Additional short writing assignments may be made. Reading/Listening/Viewing assignments may be made.

 

EVALUATION CRITERIA:

Each student is assessed on an individual basis for participation, progress, and professional demeanor (including theatre etiquette, above), effort, attitude, willingness to achieve beyond current level, and willingness to accept and implement correction.

Final Performance (40%) Journal & Writing Assignments (20%) In-class Progress & Participation (40%)