Theatre and Performance

Faculty List
  • B. Freeman, B.A., M.A. (Toronto), Ph.D. (Toronto), Associate Professor
  • T. Lamie, B.A. (Dalhousie), M.F.A. (York), Associate Professor Teaching Stream Emeritus
  • E. Leffler, B.S. (Northwestern), M.A. (Cape Town), Ph.D., (Minnesota), Assistant Professor
  • D. Leverenz, B.A. (Alberta), M.F.A. (York), Assistant Professor, Teaching Stream
  • C. Melo, B.F.A. (Otis), M.A. (California State University, Los Angeles), Ph.D. (California State, Los Angeles), Assistant Professor, teaching Stream


ACM Program Manager: Email: acm-pm@utsc.utoronto.ca

The Theatre and Performance program provides students with opportunities to investigate theatre and performance from the multiple vantage points of performers, directors, designers, technicians, and scholars. Students in our program emerge as creative practitioners with a dynamic range of collaborative skills and citizen-artists with a unique readiness to contribute to and productively challenge, their society. Theatre and Performance draw together four groups: students who major or minor in theatre and performance studies, those who specialize in other aspects of arts, media and culture, students interested in pursuing a teaching career in Theatre, and students from other programs and majors who have a casual interest in theatre and performance. To address the needs of our diverse student body we offer courses in four complementary areas:

  1. The analysis of performance, based on theory and history;
  2. The practical, artistic skills of theatre-makers, including acting, directing, design, and technical theatre;
    our students gain an intellectual and critical grounding in theatre and performance while also acquiring experience in theatre production our program also benefits from ongoing connections to Toronto's vibrant arts scene. Field trips, guest lectures, workshops, and unique collaborations with working artists provide students with new knowledge, skills and exposure to working professionals in the field.
  3. The non-commercial uses of theatre in various communities, including schools and political movements; and
  4. The experiential, ensemble-based process of rehearsing and performing theatre.

By taking classes across these areas of our curriculum our students gain an intellectual and critical grounding in theatre and performance while also acquiring experience in theatre production our program also benefits from ongoing connections to Toronto's vibrant arts scene. Field trips, guest lectures, workshops, and unique collaborations with working artists provide students with new knowledge, skills and exposure to working professionals in the field.

Note: Not all courses are offered every year. In planning their programs, students are encouraged to consult the ACM Program Manager.
Some courses in Theatre and Performance (THR) may include Ancillary fees.

Combined Degree Programs, Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

The Combined Degree Programs for UTSC Honours Bachelor of Science (HBSc)/ Honours Bachelor of Arts (HBA) with the Master of Teaching (MT) offered by the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education provides students with a direct pathway to the completion, in 6 years, of their Undergraduate degree, Ontario Teacher’s Certificate of Qualifications, and Master’s degree.​ These Combined Degree Programs allow students to complete 1.0 credits in courses that may be counted towards both degrees.

The Combined Degree Program option is:

  • Theatre and Performance Studies (Major), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

For more information, including Admission and Program requirements, refer to the Combined Degree Programs section of the Calendar.​

Guidelines for First-Year Course Selection

Students who intend to complete a Theatre and Performance Studies Program should include THRA10H3 and THRA11H3 in their first-year course selection.
The Theatre and Performance Program Study Guide can be found on the Department of Arts, Culture and Media website.

Areas of Focus:

Theatre & Society
THRB20H3, THRB21H3, THRB22H3, THRC20H3

Theatre in Communities
THRB40H3, THRC40H3, THRC41H3

Performance
THRB30H3, THRB31H3, THRB32H3, THRC30H3, THRD30H3, THRD31H3

Production
THRB50H3, THRB55H3, THRB56H3, THRC50H3, THRC55H3, THRC56H3, THRD55H3, THRD56H3

Experiential Learning and Outreach

For a community-based experiential learning opportunity in your academic field of interest, consider the course CTLB03H3, which can be found in the Teaching and Learning section of the Calendar.

Theatre and Performance Programs

COMBINED DEGREE PROGRAMS, HONOURS BACHELOR OF SCIENCE OR HONOURS BACHELOR OF ARTS / MASTER OF TEACHING

The Combined Degree Programs for UTSC Honours Bachelor of Science (HBSc)/ Honours Bachelor of Arts (HBA) with the Master of Teaching (MT) offered by the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education are designed for students who are interested in a career in Education. They allow exceptional students who are registered in one of the 50 identified Specialist and Major programs to gain early admission to the MT, which is a full-time professional program that leads to both a Master's degree and eligibility to become a certified teacher in Ontario. Students who successfully complete one of the Combined Degree Programs listed below will earn two University of Toronto degrees (HBA/ HBSc and MT), and be recommended to the Ontario College of Teachers for a Certificate of Qualifications as elementary or secondary school teachers.

Contact Information:
Combined Degree Programs Coordinator
Email: cdp.utsc@utoronto.ca

The Combined Degree Programs options are:

Department of Anthropology

  • Evolutionary Anthropology (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Evolutionary Anthropology (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Socio-Cultural Anthropology (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • Socio-Cultural Anthropology (Major), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

Department of Arts, Culture and Media

  • Theatre and Performance Studies (Major), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

Department of Biological Sciences

  • Biology (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Conservation and Biodiversity (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Conservation and Biodiversity (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Human Biology (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Human Biology (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Integrative Biology (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Molecular Biology, Immunology and Disease (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Plant Biology (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching

Department of Computer and Mathematical Sciences

  • Mathematics (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Mathematics (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Mathematics (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Mathematics (Major Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching

Department of English

  • English (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • English (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • English (Major), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • English (Major Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

Department of Language Studies

  • French (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • French (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • French (Major), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • French (Major Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

Department of Historical and Cultural Studies

  • History (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • History (Major), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

Department of Human Geography

  • Human Geography (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • Human Geography (Major), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences

  • Medicinal and Biological Chemistry (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Medicinal and Biological Chemistry (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Biochemistry (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Biochemistry (Major Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Chemistry (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Chemistry (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Chemistry (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Chemistry (Major Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Global Environmental Change (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Global Environmental Change (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Environmental Chemistry (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Environmental Chemistry (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Environmental Physics (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Environmental Physics (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Physics and Astrophysics (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Physics and Astrophysics (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Physical and Mathematical Sciences (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching

Department of Sociology

  • Sociology (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • Sociology (Major), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

Students applying to the MT must have two teaching subjects regardless of the concentration they are applying to (Primary/Junior, Junior/Intermediate, or Intermediate/Senior), and must have completed at least 6.0 credits in their first teaching subject and at least 3.0 credits in their second teaching subject (note: both French as a Second Language and Science require at least 6.0 credits in university courses even when they are a second teaching subject). Each of the programs listed below includes a minimum of 6.0 credits in courses that can be applied towards the completion of the prerequisites for the identified OISE teaching subject(s).

UTSC Programs Fit With OISE MT Teaching Subjects:

UTSC ProgramMT Teaching Subjects - Required Number of Courses/Credits Completed
- Specialist/ Specialist Co-op in Medicinal and Biological ChemistryScience - Chemistry, or
Science - Biology, or
Science - General
- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in Molecular Biology and BiotechnologyScience - Biology, or
Science - General
- Major/Major Co-op In Biochemistry
- Major in Biology
- Specialist in Conservation and Biodiversity
- Major in Conservation and Biodiversity
- Specialist in Human Biology
- Major in Human Biology
- Specialist in Integrative Biology
- Major in Molecular Biology, Immunology and Disease
- Major in Plant Biology
- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in Global Environmental Change

Science - Biology

 

- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in Chemistry
- Major/Major Co-op in Chemistry
- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in Environmental Chemistry
Science - Chemistry
- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in Environmental Physics
- Specialist in Physics and Astrophysics
- Major in Physics and Astrophysics
- Specialist in Physical and Mathematical Sciences
Science - Physics
- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in Mathematics
- Major/Major Co-op in Mathematics
Mathematics
- Specialist in Evolutionary Anthropology
- Major in Evolutionary Anthropology
- Specialist in Socio-Cultural Anthropology
- Major in Socio-Cultural Anthropology
- Specialist in Sociology
- Major in Sociology
Social Science - General
- Major in Theatre and Performance StudiesDramatic Arts
- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in English
- Major/Major Co-op in English
English
- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in French
- Major/Major Co-op in French
French (Second Language)
- Specialist in History
- Major in History
History
- Specialist in Human Geography
- Major in Human Geography
Geography

Application Process:

  • Applicants must apply to the Honours Bachelor of Arts (HBA)/ Honours Bachelor of Science (HBSc) program, the MT program and the CDP.
  • Qualified students in Year 3 of their HBA/ HBSc degree program apply to the MT program; those accepted will receive a conditional offer to start the MT program upon completion of their HBA/ HBSc program and degree requirements.

Minimum Admission Requirements:

To be considered for conditional admission to the MT program and the selected CDP, applicants must meet the following admission requirements:

  • Be admitted to the HBA/ HBSc degree and at least one of the above-listed undergraduate programs at UTSC.
  • Meet the admission requirements of the School of Graduate Studies and the MT program.
  • Be enrolled full-time and in good standing in the HBA/ HBSc program(s):
    • have a B+ average or higher in Year 2;
    • carry a full course load of 5.0 credits each year (i.e., complete 5.0 credits over the three academic sessions - Fall, Winter, Summer); where necessary, exceptions will be made for students in Co-op programs.
  • Have completed at least half of the teaching subjects' prerequisite courses - i.e., 3.0 credits in the first teaching subject and at least 1.5 credits in the second teaching subject (or 3.0 credits if the second teaching subject is French as a Second Language or Science) - by the end of Year 3.
  • Provide at least two letters of reference (see: http://www.oise.utoronto.ca/mt/Home.html).
  • Provide a Statement of Intent indicating their preferred concentration (Primary/Junior, Junior Intermediate, or Intermediate/Senior) and describe three significant teaching and/or teaching-related experiences they have had, especially with groups of children; with reference to these experiences, applicants should identify insights gained about teaching and learning, and explain how, based on these insights, they might contribute to the education of students in today's schools. On their resumé, applicants must list, in chart form, the extent of their teaching experiences; the chart should include dates, location of the experience, applicants' role, and number of hours working with students.
  • Meet other qualifications as specified by the MT program, including: a police record check, relevant teaching experiences, academic and professional references, and satisfying teaching subject prerequisites.

To be given full, unconditional admission to the MT program, applicants must meet the following admission requirements:

  • Maintain a B+ average or higher in their final year of study in the HBA/ HBSc program, or over upper-level (C- and D-level) courses.
  • Achieve at least a B+ average in 1.0 credit in graduate courses taken in Year 4.
  • Regardless of the concentration to which they are applying (Primary/Junior, Junior/Intermediate, Intermediate/Senior), complete the prerequisites for both the first and second teaching subjects; students are encouraged to consult often with their HBA/HBSc Program Supervisor, as well as the Combined Degree Programs Coordinator.
  • Be conferred with the HBA/ HBSc degree.

Program Requirements and Path to Completion:

  • Year 1 to 4: HBA/ HBSc degree requirements:
    • students must complete all of the HBA/ HBSc program and degree requirements;
    • students are expected to carry a full course load of 5.0 credits over the three academic sessions (Fall, Winter, Summer) of each year;
    • in Year 3, qualified students may apply to the MT and the CDP and may be offered conditional admission to the MT;
    • by the end of Year 3 students must complete at least 3.0 credits required for the first teaching subject, and at least 1.5 credits for the second teaching subject (or 3.0 credits if the second teaching subject is French as a Second Language or Science);
    • in Year 4, students who receive a conditional offer of admission to the CDP must complete any two of the graduate elective half courses recommended by OISE for CDP students; these courses (1.0 credit) are counted towards the completion of both the HBA/ HBSc degree and the MT program and degree; CDP students are graded as graduate students in these courses and are required to meet graduate expectations;
    • by the end of Year 4, students must complete all HBA/ HBSc program requirements and degree requirements, including at least 6.0 credits required for the first teaching subject, and  at least 3.0 credits for the second teaching subject (or 6.0 credits if the second teaching subject is French as a Second Language or Science).
  • Year 5 and 6: Remaining MT program and degree requirements:
    • students must complete 11.0 credits as identified by OISE.

MAJOR PROGRAM IN THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE (ARTS) - SCMAJ2150

ACM Program Manager: email (acm-pa@utoronto.ca)

Program Requirements
Students must complete 8.0 credits, of which 2.0 credits must be at the C- or D-level.

1. Foundational Courses (1.0 credit):
THRA10H3 Introduction to Theatre
THRA11H3 Introduction to Performance

2. Areas of Focus Courses (4.0 credits):
1.0 credit from each of the four Areas of Focus listed below:
- Theatre & Society (1.0 credit)
- Theatre in Communities (1.0 credit)
- Performance (1.0 credit)
- Production (1.0 credit)
*For the specific courses that fall into each of these areas see the Areas of Focus table.

3. THRD60H3 Advanced Seminar in Theatre and Performance (0.5 credit)

4. 2.5 additional credits in Theatre and Performance (THR) courses:
In fulfilling this component of the course requirements, students may substitute 1.0 credit from another discipline with the Program Director's written permission. The following courses are particularly recommended:
ENGB14H3 Twentieth-Century Drama
ENGB32H3 Shakespeare in Context I
ENGB33H3 Shakespeare in Context II
ENGC04H3 Creative Writing: Screenwriting
ENGC07H3 Canadian Drama
ENGC26H3 Drama: Tragedy
ENGC27H3 Drama: Comedy
ENGC89H3 Creative Writing and Performance
GASB15H3 The Arts of South Asia
HLTB50H3 Introduction to Health Humanities
HLTD51H3 Aging and the Arts
MDSB63H3 Sound and Visual Media
MDSC65H3 Games and Play
MUZB01H3/​(VPMB01H3) Introduction to Community Music
MUZB02H3/​(VPMB02H3)Music Facilitation and Learning
MUZC02H3/​(VPMC02H3) Music, Health and Wellness
VPSB77H3 Performance Art
VPSC71H3 Performing with Cameras

MINOR PROGRAM IN THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE (ARTS) - SCMIN2150

ACM Program Manager: acm-pa@utsc.utoronto.ca

Program Requirements
Students must complete 4.0 credits, of which 1.0 credit must be at the C- or D-level:

1. Foundational Courses (1.0 credit)
THRA10H3/​(VPDA10H3) Introduction to Theatre
THRA11H3/​(VPDA11H3) Introduction to Performance

2. 3.0 additional credits in Theatre and Performance (THR) courses as follows:
At least 1.0 credits each from any two of the four areas of focus listed below:
- Theatre & Society
- Theatre in Communities
- Performance
- Production

For the specific courses that fall into each of these areas, see the Areas of Focus Table.

 

Theatre and Performance Courses

THRA10H3 - Introduction to Theatre

A general introduction to theatre as a social institution and collaborative performing art. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, class exercises, and excursions to see theatre together throughout Toronto, this course will investigate why and how people commit their lives to make theatre. It will also orient students to the four areas of focus in the Theatre and Performance program's curriculum, providing a background for further theatre studies.

Exclusion: (VPDA10H3)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language

THRA11H3 - Introduction to Performance

An introduction to the actor’s craft. This course provides an experiential study of the basic physical, vocal, psychological and analytical tools of the actor/performer, through a series of group and individual exercises.

Prerequisite: THRA10H3/(VPDA10H3)
Exclusion: (VPDA11H3)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language

THRB20H3 - Wrestling with the Western Canon

This course challenges students to "wrestle" with the Western canon that has dominated the practice of theatre-making in colonized North America. In wrestling with it, students will become more conversant in its forms and norms, and thus better able to enter into dialogue with other theatre practitioners and scholars. They also learn to probe and challenge dominant practices, locating them within the cultural spheres and power structures that led to their initial development.

Exclusion: (VPDB10H3)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language

THRB21H3 - Intercultural and Global Theatre

Intercultural & Global Theatre will be a study of theatre and performance as a forum for cultural representation past and present. Students will think together about some thorny issues of intercultural encounter and emerge with a fuller understanding of the importance of context and audience in interpreting performances that are more likely than ever to travel beyond the place they were created.

Exclusion: (VPDB11H3)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language

THRB22H3 - Theatre in Canada

This course explores the history of performance on this part of Turtle Island as a way of reimagining its future. Through a series of case studies, students will grow their understanding of theatre a powerful arena for both shoring up and dismantling myths of the "imagined nation" of Canada. With a special focus on Indigenous-settler relations and the contributions of immigrant communities to diversifying the stories and aesthetics of the stage, the course will reveal theatre as an excellent forum for reckoning with the past and re-storying our shared future.

Exclusion: (VPDB13H3)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language

THRB30H3 - Intermediate Performance: Scene Study

By performing characters and staging scenes in scripted plays, students in this course develop and hone the physical, psychological, analytical, and vocal skills of actors.

Prerequisite: THRA11H3/(VPDA11H3)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Course Experience: University-Based Experience

THRB31H3 - Intermediate Performance: Devising Theatre

This course engages students in an experiential study of devised theatre, a contemporary practice wherein a creative team (including actors, designers, writers, dramaturgs, and often a director) collaboratively create an original performance without a preexisting script. We will explore how an ensemble uses improvisation, self-scripted vignettes, movement/dance, and found materials to create an original piece of theatre.

Prerequisite: THRA11H3/(VPDA11H3)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Course Experience: University-Based Experience

THRB32H3 - Intermediate Performance: Improvisation

This course introduces students to improvisation across a range of theatrical contexts. In a sequence of short units, the course will explore improv comedy, improvisation-based devising work, and the improvisation structures commonly used in the context of applied theatre work (including forum theatre and playback theatre). Simultaneously, students will read scholarly literature that addresses the ethical dilemmas, cultural collisions, and practical conundrums raised by these forms. Students will reflect on their own experiences as improvisers through the vocabulary that has been developed in this literature.

Prerequisite: THRA11H3/(VPDA11H3)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Course Experience: University-Based Experience

THRB41H3 - Theatre-Making with Communities: A Survey

Students will study a wide range of "applied theatre" practice, which might include community-based theatre, prison theatre, Theatre for Development (TfD), Theatre of the Oppressed (TO), and Creative Drama in Classrooms. They will grow as both scholars and practitioners of this work, and will emerge as better able to think through the practical and ethical challenges of facilitating this work. Case studies will reflect the diversity of global practices and the importance of doing this work with marginalized groups.

Prerequisite: THRA10H3
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Course Experience: University-Based Experience

THRB50H3 - Stagecraft

An introduction to the elements of technical theatre production. Students in the course will get hands-on experience working in the theatre in some combination of the areas of stage management, lighting, sound, video projection, costumes, set building and carpentry.

Exclusion: (VPDB03H3), (VPDC03H3)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language

THRB55H3 - Creating a Production: Actors in Action I

This course is an intensive study of theatrical production from the vantage point of the actor. It engages students in the experiential learning process inherent in rehearsing and performing in a major theatrical production.

Prerequisite: Permission of the Theatre and Performance Studies Instructor (includes an audition)
Course Experience: University-Based Experience
Note: 1. This course will meet at non-traditional times, when the show rehearsals are scheduled – mostly weekday evenings, with some late night and evening rehearsals expected. 2. This course is intended for Year 1 and 2 students at UTSC, or advanced students who are new to performing on stage. More advanced actors in the show are encouraged to register for THRC55H3 or THRD55H3.

THRB56H3 - Creating a Production: Conception, Design, and Execution I

This course is an intensive study of theatrical production from the vantage points of producers, directors (and assistant directors), designers (and assistant designers), stage managers (and assistant stage managers), and dramaturgs. It engages students in the experiential learning process inherent in conceiving of, planning for, rehearsing, and producing a major theatrical production. Students are required to submit an application. Applications are available in August and can be found on the Arts, Culture, and Media website and in the timetable.

Prerequisite: Permission of the Theatre and Performance Studies instructor.
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Course Experience: University-Based Experience
Note: 1. This course will meet at non-traditional times when the show rehearsals and production meetings are scheduled. 2. THRB56H3 is intended for Year 1 and 2 students at UTSC, or advanced students who are new to producing, directing, designing, stage management, and dramaturgy. More advanced producers, directors, designers, stage managers, and dramaturgs are encouraged to register for THRC56H3 or THRD56H3.

THRC15H3 - Special Topics in Performance

Selected advanced topics for intensive study of some specific aspects of performance. The topics explored in this course will change from session to session.

Prerequisite: Any 2.0 credits in THR courses
Exclusion: (VPDC20H3)
Note: Further information can be found on the ACM Theatre and Performance website. Depending on the topics covered in a given term, this course may be counted as a 0.5 credit towards an appropriate area of focus. Contact ACM Program Manager for more information.

THRC16H3 - Investigations in Performance

Selected advanced topics for intensive study of some specific aspects of performance. The topics explored in this course will change from session to session.

Prerequisite: Any 2.0 credits in THR courses
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Note: Further information can be found on the ACM Theatre and Performance website. Depending on the topics covered in the course, THRC16H3 may be counted as a 0.5 credit towards an appropriate area of focus. Contact the ACM Program Manager for more information.

THRC20H3 - Theatre and Social Justice

This course invites students to consider how theatre can help to close the gap between the just world we envision and the inequitable world we inhabit. Case studies illuminate the challenges that theatre-makers face when confronting injustice, the strategies they pursue, and the impact of their work on their audiences and the larger society.

Exclusion: (VPDC13H3)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Note: Enrolment priority is given to students enrolled in either Major or Minor program in Theatre and Performance

THRC21H3 - Reimagining Theatre Criticism 

This course immerses students in the local theatre scene, taking them to 4-5 productions over the term. We study the performances themselves and the art of responding to live performances as theatre critics. We position theatre criticism as evolving in the increasingly digital public sphere, and as a potential tool for advocates of antiracist, decolonial, feminist, and queer cultural work.

Prerequisite: THRA10H3 and one of [THRB20H3, THRB21H3, or THRB22H3]
Exclusion: THRB40H3
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Course Experience: Partnership-Based Experience

THRC24H3 - Theatre & Performance Abroad

A study abroad experiential education opportunity. Destinations and themes will vary, but the course will always include preparation, travel and critical reflection. Students must complete an application form made available on the UTSC Timetable and on the ACM website.

Prerequisite: [THRA10H3 and THRA11H3]

Admission will also be by application. Criteria for selection will be shared on the application form.

Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Course Experience: Partnership-Based Experience

THRC30H3 - Theatrical Design

This course introduces students to the principles of theatrical design, including set design, lighting design, costume design, and sound design. Students learn how to envision the aesthetic world of a play, in collaboration with other artists.

Prerequisite: THRA10H3/(VPDA10H3)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language

THRC40H3 - Performance and Activism

This course introduces students to the principles and creative processes associated with Theatre of the Oppressed – a movement blending activism and artistry to advance progressive causes. Students train as Theatre of the Oppressed performers and facilitators, and through a combination of lectures, readings, discussions, and field trips, they process the history, ideology, and debates associated with this movement.

Prerequisite: THRA10H3/(VPDA10H3)

THRC41H3 - Theatre in Education

This course introduces students to the principles and creative processes of integrating theatre into K-12 classrooms and other learning environments. Lectures, readings, discussions, and field trips complement active experimentation as students learn the pedagogical value of this active, creative, imaginative, kinesthetic approach to education.

Prerequisite: THRA10H3/(VPDA10H3)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language

THRC44H3 - Theatre and Performance in Local Community

A local experiential education opportunity in theatre practices. Specific nature and themes will vary, but the course will always include preparation, collaboration with local artists, educators, or community arts facilitators and critical reflection. Students must complete an application form made available on the UTSC Timetable and on the ACM website.

Prerequisite: [THRA10H3 and THRA11H3]. Admission will also be by application. Criteria for selection will be shared on the application form.
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Course Experience: Partnership-Based Experience

THRC50H3 - Advanced Workshop: Performance

Students stretch themselves as theatrical performers and producers as they engage in structured, practical experimentation related to the departmental production.

Prerequisite: 0.5 credit from the following [THRB30H3 or THRB31H3 or THRB32H3], and permission from the Theatre and Performance instructor.
Exclusion: (VPDC01H3)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Course Experience: University-Based Experience

THRC55H3 - Creating a Production: Actors in Action II

This course is an intensive study of theatrical production from the vantage point of the actor. It engages students in the experiential learning process inherent in rehearsing and performing in a major theatrical production.

Prerequisite: THRB55H3 and permission of the Theatre and Performance Studies Teaching instructor (includes an audition)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Course Experience: University-Based Experience
Note: 1. This course will meet at non-traditional times, when the show rehearsals are scheduled – mostly weekday evenings, with some late night and evening rehearsals expected. 2 THRC55H3 is intended for Year 3 students at UTSC who have already had some experience on stage. Beginning students in the show are encouraged to register for THRB55H3; more advanced actors in the show are encouraged to register for THRD55H3.

THRC56H3 - Creating a Production: Conception, Design, and Execution II

This course is an intensive study of theatrical production from the vantage points of producers, directors (and assistant directors), designers (and assistant designers), stage managers (and assistant stage managers), and dramaturgs. It engages students in the experiential learning process inherent in conceiving of, planning for, rehearsing, and producing a major theatrical production. Students are required to submit an application. Applications will be available in August and can be found on the Arts, Culture, and Media website and in the timetable.

Prerequisite: THRB56H3 and permission of the Theatre and Performance Studies Teaching instructor.
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Course Experience: University-Based Experience
Note: 1. This course will meet at non-traditional times when the show rehearsals and production meetings are scheduled. 2. THRC56H3 is intended for Year 3 students at UTSC with some theatrical experience. Beginning students are encouraged to register for THRB56H3, while more advanced producers, directors, designers, stage managers, and dramaturgs are encouraged to register for THRD56H3.

THRD30H3 - Directing for the Theatre

This course introduces students to the work of the director. A combination of lecture, discussion, reading, and practical work will challenge students to consider how to lead the creative teams that create performance. Students taking this course will need to devote a considerable amount of time outside of class to rehearsing class projects and will need to recruit collaborators for these projects.

Prerequisite: THRA10H3/(VPDA10H3) and THRA11H3/(VPDA11H3), and an additional 1.0 credit in Theatre and Performance, and permission from the instructor
Exclusion: (VPDC02H3)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Course Experience: University-Based Experience

THRD31H3 - Advanced Performance

Building on concepts introduced in THRB30H3, THRB31H3, and THRB32H3, this course offers advanced acting training.

Prerequisite: 1.0 credit from the following: [THRB30H3, THRB31H3, THRB32H3]
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language

THRD55H3 - Creating a Production: Actors in Action III

This course is an intensive study of theatrical production from the vantage point of the actor. It engages students in the experiential learning process inherent in rehearsing and performing in a major theatrical production.

Prerequisite: THRC55H3 and permission of the Theatre and Performance Studies instructor (includes an audition)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Course Experience: University-Based Experience
Note: 1. This course will meet at non-traditional times, when the show rehearsals are scheduled – mostly weekday evenings, with some late night and evening rehearsals expected. 2. THRD55H3 is intended for Year 4 students at UTSC, with extensive experience performing on stage. Less advanced actors in the show are encouraged to register for THRB55H3 or THRC55H3.

THRD56H3 - Creating a Production: Conception, Design, and Execution III

This course is an intensive study of theatrical production from the vantage points of producers, directors (and assistant directors), designers (and assistant designers), stage managers (and assistant stage managers), and dramaturgs. It engages students in the experiential learning process inherent in conceiving of, planning for, rehearsing, and producing a major theatrical production. Students are required to submit an application. Applications will be available in August and can be found on the Arts, Culture, and Media website and in the timetable.

Prerequisite: THRC56H3 and permission of the Theatre and Performance Studies instructor.
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language
Course Experience: University-Based Experience
Note: 1. This course will meet at non-traditional times, when the show rehearsals and production meetings are scheduled. 2. THRD56H3 is intended for Year 4 students at UTSC with extensive theatrical experience. Less experienced producers, directors, designers, stage managers, and dramaturgs are encouraged to register for THRB56H3 or THRC56H3.

THRD60H3 - Advanced Seminar in Theatre and Performance

A study of key ideas in theatre and performance theory with a focus on pertinent 20th/21st century critical paradigms such as postcolonialism, feminism, interculturalism, cognitive science, and others. Students will investigate theory in relation to selected dramatic texts, contemporary performances, and practical experiments.

Prerequisite: Any 3.0 credits in THR courses
Exclusion: (VPDD50H3)
Breadth Requirements: Arts, Literature and Language

THRD90H3 - Supervised Studies in Drama, Theatre and Performance

Advanced scholarly projects open to upper-level Theatre and Performance students. The emphasis in these courses will be on advanced individual projects exploring specific areas of theatre history and/or dramatic literature.

Prerequisite: 1.0 credit at the C-level in THR courses, and permission of the Program Director.
Exclusion: (VPDD23H3)
Course Experience: University-Based Experience

THRD91H3 - Independent Projects in Theatre and Performance

Advanced practical projects open to upper-level Theatre and Performance students. These courses provide an opportunity for individual exploration in areas involving the practice of theatre: directing, producing, design, playwriting, dramaturgy, etc.

Prerequisite: 1.0 credit at the C-level in THR courses, and permission of the Program Director.
Exclusion: (VPDD28H3)

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