Undergraduate Studies: For Majors
What does a major in Dramatic Art involve?
The Department of Dramatic Art (DDA) gives its majors a broad understanding and appreciation of theatre on artistic and cultural levels. In the classroom, students study the history of theater and develop skills in performance and production. Students are also given the opportunity to participate in extra-curricular dramatic productions. Students are involved in every aspect of departmental shows, from acting and directing to design, scenic construction, and run crew.
Do I have to audition?
No, auditions are not required but we'd love to have you visit with us. Depending on the month, you can see a class, talk to professors and students, and even see a production. Please call (919) 962-1132 to make arrangements.
Do I have to participate in extra-curricular productions?
Participation in such productions takes time, energy and dedication. It is not required, but it is strongly encouraged as it brings to the student's education a level of practical experience not available to most undergraduates.
What will I be able to do with a B.A. in Dramatic Art?
The DDA is, of course, particularly suited to those pursuing future professional or academic careers in theatre. However, the Dramatic Art major also provides an excellent background for work in related fields such as teaching, advertising, journalism, public relations, communications, arts management, business, and arts institutions.
What is required for a B.A. in Dramatic Art?
There are eight required courses to complete the Dramatic Art major:
A. Drama 120 Play Analysis. This course is prerequisite to the acting, directing and literature/ history courses required for the major.
B. Three courses in Dramatic Literature/ Theatre History/ Criticism.
Two courses must be chosen from:
DRAM 281 Theatre History and Literature I
DRAM 282 Theatre History and Literature II
DRAM 283 Theatre History and Literature III
The remaining course would be chosen from:
DRAM 281 Theatre History and Literature I
DRAM 282 Theatre History and Literature II
DRAM 283 Theatre History and Literature III
DRAM 284 Studies in Dramatic Theory and Criticism
DRAM 285 Modern British Drama
DRAM 286 Modern Irish Drama
DRAM 287 African-American Theatre
DRAM 289 Contemporary Irish Drama
DRAM 291 Re-Playing Shakespeare in East Asia
DRAM 292 "Corner of the Sky": The American Musical
DRAM 297 African American Women in Theatre
DRAM 298 African Women in Theatre
DRAM 450 Shakespeare in the Theater
DRAM 486 Latin American Theater
DRAM 487 Chicana/o Drama
DRAM 488 United States Latino/a Theater
DRAM 489 Carnivals and Festivals of the African Diaspora
C. Two courses, one each from two of the following areas:
a. Acting: DRAM 150 Beginning Acting for Majors
b. Directing: DRAM 300 Directing
c. Design:
DRAM 465 Sound Design
DRAM 466 Scene Design
DRAM 467 Costume Design
DRAM 468 Lighting Design
DRAM 477 Theatrical Design
D. One course from Costume Production or Technical Production.
DRAM 191 Technical Methods: Scenery
DRAM 192 Technical Methods: Costume
E. DRAM 193 Production Practicum with PlayMakers Repertory Company
