This course is a fundamental study of theatre from the standpoint of developing the critical acumen of a potential audience. Through readings, recordings, and attending live theater, the course introduces the student to each ingredient of the theatrical experience: audience, playwriting, acting, directing, theatre architecture, design and technology. The student will demonstrate their understanding of the function and interdependence of various theater disciplines through a series of written assignments and group projects.
Dates: June 2 - July 9, 2025
Session: 5 Week Session
Dates: Online course
Session: Online
Time: TWR 1-3:20pm
Instructor: Donald Carrier
Credits: 3 credits
Department: Theater
The twenty-one films of James Bond have become part of popular culture, and the figure of the superspy has become mythic in proportion. This series, from its first installment in 1963 to the latest reinvention of James Bond in 2006, not only depicts one dashing man’s efforts to save the world from disaster again and again, but also traces the development of our popular culture. Issues of violence, sex, the presentation and treatment of women, racial stereotypes, and spectacle among other topics can be discussed after viewing each film, providing an opportunity to explore the changing expectations of American audiences and the developing form of contemporary cinema. Students who have taken USSO 286D may not receive credit for this class.
Dates: June 2 - July 30, 2025
Session: 8 Week Session
Dates: Online course
Session: Online
Time: MWF 10-11:30am
Instructor: Robert Ullom
Credits: 3 credits
Department: Theater
Since the beginning of cinema, audiences have flocked to see larger-than-life superheroes conquer the unconquerable while also teaching us about ourselves and confirming (or challenging) our world view. Beginning with cinematic serials in the 1920s and continuing to the recent Marvel production machine, these films not only depict a hero’s efforts to save the world from disaster again and again, but also trace the development of our popular culture. Issues of violence, nationalism, the presentation and treatment of women, racial stereotypes, and spectacle among other topics can be discussed after viewing each film, providing an opportunity to explore the changing expectations of American audiences and the developing form of contemporary cinema.
Dates: May 12 - May 30, 2025
Session: May Session
Dates: Online course
Session: Online
Time: MTWRF 10:30-11:55am
Instructor: Jeffrey Ullom
Credits: 3 credits
Department: Theater