Faculty of Arts & Science 2015-2016 Calendar

Drama, Theatre and Performance Studies (Centre for)

• Drama Specialist | Drama Major | Drama Minor
• Drama Courses

Faculty

The undergraduate programs (Specialist, Major, Minor) of the Centre for Drama, Theatre and Performance Studies offer students the opportunity to combine high standards of practical theatre training with a rich and rigorous academic environment. It offers courses in dramatic literature, dramaturgy, theatre and performance theory and history, acting, production, design, directing, and playwriting, and places a strong emphasis on the interrelation between the academic and practical aspects of theatre studies. Working towards an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree, students are required to take a complementary combination of courses, taught by both university faculty and theatre professionals, resulting in a broad knowledge of the field as a whole. A Major or Minor may be valuably combined with programs in a wide variety of other disciplines, including Languages and Literatures, Anthropology, Canadian Studies, Cinema Studies, Classics, Commerce, Art, History, Music, Political Science, Psychology, Religion, Sociology and Women & Gender Studies.  Besides providing instruction in drama, theatre and performance studies, the Centre's undergraduate programs have mounted international theatrical events and conferences, organized its students to tour Europe and Asia, forged links with leading Canadian theatres and maintained regular contact with world-renowned international theatre artists.

The majority of the Drama Centre’s undergraduate programs are housed in the Union Building at University College, which includes the Helen Gardiner Phelan Playhouse; the Centre's full list of facilities includes three theatres and a number of related venues. More details, including application and ballot forms, can be found on the website at: http://dramacentre.utoronto.ca/

The Centre’s Director and Undergraduate Administrative Coordinator are also available for consultation. For enquiries or an appointment call the Undergraduate Drama Coordinator at 416-978-8099 or send an e-mail to c.osborn@utoronto.ca.

Please note: Some courses are restricted to students in a Drama Specialist, Major or Minor program; some are open to all students of the University.  Some courses require audition, interview or the submission of a portfolio.  See below for details.

Drama, Theatre and Performance Studies (Centre for) Programs

General Enquiries: Room 300, 79 St. George Street (416-978-8099)

Enrolment in the Specialist and Major programs is, with few exceptions, contingent upon personal interview and audition. Admission to the Major must be simultaneous with either DRM200Y1 (taken concurrently with DRM201H1 and DRM211H1), DRM228H1 or DRM254Y1, and to the Specialist only after enrolment in an additional course from Group B.

Auditions and interviews are held in April and August. Applications are due March 10th and August 3rd for the second round.
Register for a Drama Application: https://drama-apply.chass.utoronto.ca/login

Enrolment in the Minor program is unrestricted. Priority is reserved for Drama Majors and Specialists for DRM230Y1 and studio courses (Group B).

Enrolment in the Specialist and Major programs is limited and selection is normally made after a personal interview, audition and/or portfolio submission. Students will be admitted to the Major only after they have been admitted to either DRM200Y1, DRM228H1 or DRM254Y1, and to the Specialist only after they have been admitted to an additional course from Group B.

(12 full courses or their equivalent, including at least four 300+ series with at least one FCE at the 400 level)

1.    DRM100Y1 
2.    From Group A: DRM230Y1 and 1.5 course equivalent
3.    From Group B: 2 full-course equivalents (entry points: DRM200Y1 or DRM254Y1 or DRM228H1)
4.    From Group A or C: 1.5 full-course equivalents
5.    From Group A, B, C or other DRM: 5 full-course equivalents to make up the total of 12 courses

Enrolment in the Specialist and Major programs is limited and selection is normally made after a personal interview, audition and/or portfolio submission. Students will be admitted to the Major only after they have been admitted to either DRM200Y1, DRM228H1 or DRM254Y1.

(8 full courses or their equivalent including at least two 300+ series courses with at least 0.5 at the 400 level)

1.    DRM100Y1 
2.    From Group A: DRM230Y1 and 1 full-course equivalent
3.    From Group B: 2 full-course equivalents (entry points: DRM200Y1 or DRM254Y1 or DRM228H1)
4.    From Group A or C: 1 full-course equivalent
5.    From Group A, B, C or other DRM: 2 full-course equivalents to make up the total of 8 courses

Note:
Students taking DRM200Y1, DRM300Y1, DRM400Y1 and DRM403Y1 must take the appropriate Voice co-requisite (DRM201H1, DRM301H1 and DRM401H1), Movement co-requisite (DRM211H1, DRM311H1 and DRM411H1) and academic co-requisite (DRM100Y1 or a course from Group A)

(4 full courses or their equivalent including at least one FCE at the 300+ level)

1.    DRM100Y1 
2.    From Group A: 1 full-course equivalent
3.    From Group A or C: 1 full-course equivalent
4.    From Groups A, B, C or other DRM (when eligible): 1 full-course equivalent

Note: Priority is reserved for Drama Majors and Specialists for DRM230Y1 and Group B Studio courses.

Group A: Drama, Theatre and Performance Studies
DRM230Y1, DRM264H1, DRM268H1, DRM331H1, DRM342H1, DRM362H1, DRM385H1, DRM385Y1, DRM386H1, DRM388H1, DRM485Y1, DRM487H1, DRM488H1; JDC400Y1, JDC410H1

Group B: Studio 
DRM200Y1, DRM201H1, DRM211H1, DRM228H1, DRM254Y1, DRM300Y1, DRM301H1, DRM302H1, DRM303H1, DRM311H1, DRM328H1, DRM354Y1, DRM368H1, DRM400Y1, DRM401H1, DRM402H1, DRM403Y1, DRM411H1, DRM428H1, DRM454H1, DRM486H1

Note: Students taking a studio course (Group B) are required to take an academic co-requisite (DRM100Y1, DRM230Y1 or any course from Group A)

Group C: Related Courses in Other Departments
ABS300Y1, ABS302H1, ABS341H1; CLA382H1, CLA383H1; ENG220Y1, ENG330H1, ENG331H1, ENG335H1, ENG336H1, ENG337H1, ENG340H1, ENG341H1, ENG448H1, ENG455H1, ENG352H1; FRE310H1; GER240H1, GER340H1; GRK351H1, GRK352H1, GRK451H1, GRK452H1; ITA315Y1, ITA390H1, ITA410H1; LAT351H1/LAT451H1; MUS206H1, MUS209H1, MUS215H1, MUS340H1; SLA267H1, SLA342H1, SLA367H1, SLA405H1, SLA406H1, SLA475H1; SPA452H1; UNI202H1; VIC304H1, VIC347H1; VIS203H1, VIS208H1, VIS307H1; WGS271Y1; WGS463H1

Note: Many Group C courses have pre-requisites. Check with the department prior to enrollment.  

Special Topics & Independent Studies
DRM286H1, DRM299Y1, DRM387H1, DRM390Y1/DRM391H1, DRM399Y1, DRM485H1, DRM490Y1/DRM491H1 

Drama, Theatre and Performance Studies (Centre for) Courses

The 199Y1 and 199H1 seminars are designed to provide the opportunity to work closely with an instructor in a class of no more than twenty-four students. These interactive seminars are intended to stimulate the students’ curiosity and provide an opportunity to get to know a member of the professorial staff in a seminar environment during the first year of study. Details can be found at www.artsci.utoronto.ca/current/course/fyh-1/.

An introduction to the study of drama, theatre and performance, with particular reference to the history and practice of theatrical staging. This course brings to life diverse texts from different periods and traditions and invites students to analyze them in terms of theatrical space, plot and generic structure, characterization, theme, and language.  The course combines weekly two hour lectures and one hour tutorials.

Emphasis is initially placed on ensemble, non-verbal, and improvisational work. Students proceed to the application of their acquired skills to scripted material. Students may apply in their first or second year of University. The Application Deadline is March 10th for the first round of auditions; August 3rd for the second round.

An introduction to the dynamics of voice and effective communication as they relate to the development of the actor.  Work brings theory into physical practice. Taken in conjunction with DRM200Y1: Introduction to Performance and DRM211H1: Introduction to Movement for the Actor.

An introduction to movement for the actor focusing on body awareness and skill development, ensemble sensibility and stagecraft as it pertains to actor training. Taken in conjunction with DRM200Y1: Introduction to Performance and DRM201H1: Introduction to Voice for the Actor.

A hands-on study of the craft of dramatic writing. The class examines the basic elements of playwriting such as plot, structure, theme, character, dialogue, setting, with an emphasis on story-making. Attention is given to the development of students own work through written assignments and in-class exercises. See Portfolio Guidelines for information on how to apply.

An introduction to the shifting landscapes of European theatre theory, history and practice in the late 19th century and their repercussions throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. The course focuses on the developments of modern and postdramatic theatre. It also includes critical analysis of the annual Drama Resource Show and current Canadian theatre.

A practical introduction to various areas of theatre production including lighting, sound, projections, stage management, and set construction. Working extensively in the Helen Gardiner Phelan Playhouse, the students form the core of the production team for Drama productions. By the completion of the course, the students should have a comprehensive overview of the organization, skills, and discipline necessary to mount a theatrical production in a professional manner. The Application Deadline is March 10th for the first round of interviews; August 3rd for the second round.

An exploration of themes, forms, and historical conditions that characterize Early Modern European drama and theatre from the Renaissance to approximately 1900. Studying plays in a variety of European contexts, we will consider how theatre theory, criticism, and dramaturgy inform diverse kinds of playwriting, critical reception, and contemporary interpretation.

Since the 1960s, actors, directors, and writers have been architects of Canadian identity. This course will study the history of Canadian theatre, with an emphasis on how Canadian playwrights and creators have been engaged with social and political issues. A survey of post-colonial theatre, cultural diversity, and gender politics on the Canadian stage.

Effective communication is a pivotal skill in work and other environments where public speaking, persuasive discourse, and personal presence are key to success. This introductory course is suited to students in professional programs or for those who would like to learn a full range of communication skills.

Credit course for supervised participation in faculty research project. Details at http://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/current/course/rop. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Building upon the work of DRM200Y1, students concentrate on scene study, styles of acting, and the development of ensemble work. Active practices include the analysis of text and sub-text, the establishing of scene objectives, improvisation, and clown. Application Deadline is March 10th.

Builds on skills learned in DRM201H1 (Intro to Voice) as they relate to the development of acting abilities. The course investigates the relationship between theory and physical practice of voice training.  Taken in conjunction with DRM300Y1: Performance I and DRM311H1: Movement for the Actor I.

An introduction to major concepts and artistic practices in directing. The course focuses on different styles, ideas, and goals of theatre directors in their relations to actors, audiences, and broad cultural and political contexts. A major component will be the practical application of basic directing techniques.

A continuation of previous training to develop a more expressive body and increase devising skills through a more concentrated study of the relationship between objective, impulse and action using the principles of Viewpoints, Laban and the Margolis Method. Taken in conjunction with DRM300Y1: Performance I and DRM301H1: Voice for the Actor I.

A continuation of DRM228H1, concentrating upon the in-depth knowledge and practice of playwriting with an emphasis on style and technique of writing for the stage. Students develop their own work through written assignments, in-class exercises, and the final public presentation. See Portfolio Guidelines for information on how to apply.

Study of dramaturgical theory, and of interpretations of the dramaturge's function in the theatre. Using examples from Canada and beyond, students apply this knowledge to theatre practice. Not offered in 2015/16.

The turn of the 21st century advanced a social, political, and aesthetic shift reminiscent of that during the post-Industrial Revolution/pre-WWII epoch that launched the historical avant-garde.  This class, while exploring significant artistic and sociopolitical developments of thatavant-garde, will primarily concentrate on the experimental theatre and performance of the past 15 years—a contemporary avant-garde that “hinge[s] on a networked spatiality, rather than on linear teleology” and reflects a growing collective investment on part of audiences and artists alike in the work of a work of art.  

A detailed exploration of theatrical stage and costume design, historical and contemporary, theatrical and practical. The Application Deadline is March 10th for the first round of interviews; August 3rd for the second round.

An intercultural, post-colonial and comparative analysis of innovative processes in the national and cross-cultural theatre around the world. Focusing on selected periods and cultures, the course explores the cultural backgrounds of key turning points in pre-modern and modern theatre and their impact on the developments of the post-modern theatre in a globalizing world.

A hands-on exploration of fundamental building blocks of collective creation, or ‘devised theatre,’ examining techniques and exercises by its leading practitioners. Combining research, improvisation and design elements, students define a topic of investigation and shape the resulting discoveries into a workshop presentation at the end of the course. Not offered in 2015/16. 

An exploration of major performance traditions in East, South, and Southeast Asia.  We will examine theatre, dance, and music as events through which participants celebrate the joy, coincidence, misunderstanding, crisis, and/or pain, in both the secular and the sacred worlds.  Course scope embraces the consideration of ritual performances, dance drama, puppet theatre, masked performances, and other indigenous theatre.

An in-depth examination of selected issues in drama, theatre and performance studies. Content may vary depending on instructor and therefore may be counted towards Groups A or B. Please consult the Undergraduate Drama office and check the website for more details.

This course will use manifestos, declarations (artistic, political, eco- and technological) as well as plays and intermedial performance examples as source texts (in the semiotic sense) from across cultures and historical periods. It will both in scholarly and performative experimental ways explore visions, dreams and nightmares as both a medium and a performance of alternative thought and praxis.

An in-depth examination of selected issues in drama, theatre and performance studies. Content may vary depending on instructor and therefore may be counted towards Groups A or B.  Please consult the Undergraduate Drama office and check the website for more details.

An examination of the major writers who have influenced the art of the actor in the twentieth century, with a focus on theories of actor training and the preparation for performance, the ways in which audiences assess acting as an art form, and the rise of the actor as an artist of equal status in North American and European theatre.  Writers include Konstantin Stanislavsky, his followers and interpreters in America (including the Actors Studio and Lee Strasberg), along with alternatives to his 'System,' including Expressionism, Epic Theatre and the teachings of Michael Chekhov.

A topic chosen by the individual student. The student must work out details with a member of faculty who is willing to act as supervisor. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

A topic chosen by the individual student. The student must work out details with a member of faculty who is willing to act as supervisor. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Credit course for supervised participation in faculty research project. Details here. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Continuation of DRM300Y1, concentrating on advanced performance techniques. The Application Deadline is March 10th.

Articulates a cultural approach to achieving Human Security. This course examines human security issues in which there is a significant cultural dimension to a security threat, and in which culture occupies an essential place in any realistic and effective solution. The work of artists to be analyzed include: Ariane Mnouchkine; Robert Lepage; Bertolt Brecht; John Greyson, Mohsen Makhmalbaf, Terry George and Daniel Barenboim. Not offered in 2015/16.

The final year of voice training refines the skills and concepts developed thus far, focusing on performance.  Techniques of articulation, speech and rhetoric are studied. Taken in conjunction with DRM400Y1: Performance II and DRM411H1: Movement for the Actor II.

An exploration of advanced directing for the theatre. The class is centered on student directed productions, which are publically presented at the end of term. Students work in one of three areas: directing, design, or production. Emphasis is placed on the development of strong central concepts and realizing the production with imagination, collaboration and creativity. Priority is reserved for Drama Majors and Specialists. The Application Deadline is March 10th. 

An in-depth study on theoretical and practical levels of a specific play which is presented to the public. This involves an intensive exploration of character in rehearsal and its discovery in performance. The Application Deadline is March 10th.

Bertolt Brecht played a specific role in the paradigm shift of the art which began at the end of the 19th century. He advanced this change by trying to connect art to its social and political functions and structure with the positive acceptance of the industrial revolution and by trying to transform it with the help of the new technological media.

The final year of movement training refines the skills and concepts developed thus far, focusing on performance.  Techniques of folk, period and social dance are studied. Taken in conjunction with DRM400Y1: Performance II and DRM401H1: Voice for the Actor II.

Continues the exploration of design and production techniques. Students are given an opportunity to use their knowledge and skills from previous production courses on an advanced level. Students are expected to participate in Drama Centre productions in senior creative and leadership roles. Focus also includes the integration of digital technology into theatrical performance.

An in-depth examination of selected issues in the theatre at the 400 level. Content may vary depending on instructor and therefore may be counted towards Group A or B. Please consult the Undergraduate Drama office and check the program’s website for more details.

Research thesis, emphasizing topics and methods used in drama, theatre and performance studies. Students must obtain permission from the instructor by submitting a research project proposal. The project may engage creative practice, but the thesis itself will be a critical, written work engaging the research and dramaturgy involved in the performance or artwork. Not eligible for CR/NCR option. . Application Deadline is March 10th.

An in-depth examination of selected issues in the theatre at the 400 level. Content may vary depending on instructor and therefore may be counted towards Groups A or B. Please consult the Undergraduate Drama office and check the program’s website for more details.

An exploration of the interface between place and contemporary Indigenous performance in North America.  Students will interrogate and experientially engage with a broad range of Indigenous and non-Indigenous theories of place to explore the subtle relational shifts between Indigenous peoples and their traditional territories through the “window” of contemporary performance and new media projects.

An in-depth examination of selected issues in the theatre at the 400 level. Content may vary depending on instructor and therefore may be counted towards Groups A or B. Please consult the Undergraduate Drama office and check the program’s website for more details.

A scholarly project at the 400 level chosen by the individual student. The student must work out details with a member of faculty who is willing to act as supervisor. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

A scholarly project at the 400 level chosen by the individual student. The student must work out details with a member of faculty who is willing to act as supervisor. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Associated with DRM300Y, students can continue their development of ensemble work, analysis of text and sub-text, the establishing of scene objectives, improvisation, clown, storytelling and self-scripting and dynamic explorations of physical space.

A continuation of DRM328H1, concentrating upon the in-depth knowledge and practice of playwriting with an emphasis on advanced style and technique of writing for the stage. Students develop their own longer work through in-class exercises, one major written assignment, and the final public presentation. See Portfolio Guidelines for information on how to apply.