MANHATTANVILLE COLLEGE

Music and Dance & Theatre Departments

Performance Project: MUSICAL THEATRE

MUA 4475 or DTH 4440

2 Credits Fall; 2 Credits Spring. Total: 4 Credits

 

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

ADMISSION BY AUDITION ONLY

 

This is a performance project course spanning the Fall semester, a week of Wintersession, and the first weeks of Spring semester, culminating in a fully mounted musical production the last week of January. Students work with theatre professionals in as close to a professional atmosphere as possible, particularly during the week-long intensive during Wintersession. In addition to the performance, students are expected to be knowledgeable regarding the composer, lyricist, librettist, and other creative staff of the original Broadway production. Assigned Reading/Listening/Viewing will be included on the Fall final exam. In addition, short writing assignments may be made.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Students earn 2 credits for each semester (Fall & Spring) totalling 4 credits. Students must commit to the entire class/rehearsal schedule. IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO TAKE ONLY ONE SEMESTER OF THIS COURSE.

 

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 for dance, if specified; always be prepared to move.

                        Be focused and involved in the rehearsal process.

                        Be respectful and supportive of other company members.

As with any professional company, you MUST notify the stage manager or director (by campus voice 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:

Reading/Listening/Viewing assignments may be made, which will further your knowledge of the performance material and its place in theatre history. In addition, short writing assignments may be made.

 

EVALUATION CRITERIA:

Both Semesters: Each student is assessed on an individual basis for participation, progress, achievement, and professional demeanor.

 

Fall Semester: Writing assignments. The written Final Exam will cover material in the  Reading/Listening/Viewing assignments, and information covered in class. Company members will also be expected to perform material from the show (by memory) chosen by the professor the day of the exam.

 

Spring Semester: Final Exam is five performances followed by strike of the set.