Special Topics in Musical Theatre (350-0-21)

Topic

Directing for the Musical

Instructors

Roger Ellis

Meeting Info

Wirtz 225 Instruct Black Box 2: Mon 11:00AM - 12:50PM

Overview of class

This course introduces students to directing for music theatre, emphasizing the genre's unique artistic, technical, and organizational demands. Students will receive hands-on training in text analysis, actor coaching, staging, and the integration of music and movement, emphasizing creative collaboration and leadership. Through applied projects, guided experimentation, and constructive feedback, students will develop their directorial style while exploring effective methods for rehearsing and staging music theatre scenes and songs. The course also incorporates the study of influential music theatre directors and productions to provide historical and stylistic context. Focusing on actor-director collaboration, the course includes practical projects where students apply these skills to direct a song and musical scene, showcasing their growth as intentional, innovative directors.

Class Materials (Required)

Reliable access to the Internet and a computer to complete web-based assignments. Note-taking materials. Sheet music and librettos for directing assignments. Movement attire. $26-50

Associated Classes

LAB - Wirtz 201 Performnce Black Box: Fri 2:00PM - 4:50PM
- Wirtz 230 Instruct Black Box 1: Fri 2:00PM - 4:50PM
- Wirtz 235 Seminar Room 1: Fri 2:00PM - 4:50PM
- Wirtz Center SOUTH: Fri 2:00PM - 4:50PM
- Wirtz 215 Instruct Black Box 3: Fri 2:00PM - 4:50PM