Register
 
B Day
Essex High School
2 Educational Dr. Essex Jct., VT 05452 | (802) 879-7121

Welcome to the Fine Arts Department

Theater

Courses Offered

Sequence 1


THEATER 1: FOUNDATIONS F007
This course introduces students to the elements of stage performance, including voice, body movement creating basic
character, and stage terminology. Through improv games and exercises, students develop skills and confidence to take creative
risks, work collaboratively and react spontaneously. The class culminates in monologue and scenic performance.
Grades 9-12 ½ Credit [FA]


IMPROVISATION 1: FOUNDATIONS OF COMEDY Fl08
This course explores the principles of comedy improvisation. Students will develop and strengthen creative thinking
skills, spontaneity, vocal and physical prowess, and collaboration through the use of theater improvisation exercises. Topics
include comedy theory, performance principles, pantomime, storytelling, and characterization. Some writing required.
Grades 9-12 1/2 Credit [FA]

FILM 1: CRITICISM F082
Students will learn a variety of critical and technical methods to move beyond merely watching films to understanding
them as active, critically engaged readers. Through in depth analysis of each film in class and in written criticisms, students
learn to express their ideas and feelings about film. Parent permission of film titles is required.
Grades 9-12 1/2 Credit [FA]

Sequence 2

THEATER 2: TECHNIQUE F061
This course continues to strengthen vital acting skills such as voice and movement, while focusing on the development
of a personal acting technique. Beginning with Stanislavski, actors will explore popular acting techniques throughout the
twentieth century with the intent of informing their own creative practice. Rigorous work in textual analysis and scene work
are the primary focus of the class, culminating in a public performance of student work. Offered 2007-2008.
Prerequisite: Theater 1
Grades 9-12 1/2 Credit [FA]

IMPROV 2: SKETCH COMEDY F064
After mastering improvisation techniques, actors will get a chance to hone their writing skills through the craft of comedy
sketch writing. Scenes that emerge from improvisations will be turned into sketches performed by class members to be presented
at the course's culminating sketch comedy show.
Prerequisite: Improvisation 1, or Theater 1, or Film 1
Grades 9-12 1/2 Credit [FA]

TEEN DRAMA PRODUCTION
Be a part of Essex history - help create an original serialized television show to be aired monthly. In this interdisciplinary
course, students will engage with the creative, practical and collaborative processes of producing a television
drama. Students will choose one course of interest: Acting for the Camera, Movie Production, or Creative Writing. These
three courses will work collaboratively to produce 2-3 finished teen drama shows to be aired on the in-school television
channel.

FILM 2: ACTING FOR THE CAMERA F065
Working closely with the writers, student actors will create reoccurring characters and perform them weekly in front
of the camera. Actors will learn playing to the camera, shooting out of sequence, blocking, and other production considerations.
The primary focus will be on specific techniques to help the actor bring a deep level of truth to his/her acting..
Prerequisite: Theater 1
Grades: 9-12 1/2 Credit [FA]