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THEATR-110 - Understanding Theatre - Christopher Boltz

Course:Understanding Theatre
Professor:Christopher Boltz
Email:christopher.boltz@canyons.edu
Format:
  • Online
  • OnlineLive
  • Hybrid
  • InPerson
Course Length:
  • Applies to All Course Lengths

Introduction

Christopher Boltz

Hello!   My name is Chris Boltz, and am a Full Time Faculty Member at College of the Canyons.  My background in theatre is largely in the world of design and technical theatre, but I also have experience as a playwright, stage manager and director.  We are going to cover all the parts of theatre including how it is like other story based entertainments, who does the work to make it happen, how it is structured, and just a little bit of its history.   We will read and see a few plays!

Course Description

The official course description is: 

Analyzes theatre and the theatrical event from the audience perspective, including the functions of the producer, architect, playwright, director, actors, designers, and critics. Students will be required to attend live theatre productions.

What to Expect in this Course

Each week in a full term class, we will have 1-2 chapters to read from our text book or play we are reading (each reading assignment will have a short open-book review quiz on the chapter).  There will also be a short open book review quiz for each reading assignment.    Some weeks, instead of reading, you will an assignment to watch a play (online or in person).  If the section is short term, the work load will be increased proportionally.  

Types of Assessments

Types of Assignments:

  • Weekly readings in the text book or assigned plays (in Canvas)
    • Includes a short open-book review quiz
  • Short critique essays on plays you watch (Live or On-line)
  • Discussion Boards (online/hybrid classes) or In class discussions (onlineLive or In Person classes)
  • Collaborative projects on plays we read

Textbook Information

Theatre: The Lively Art 11th Edition by Edwin Wilson & Alvin Goldfarb. (ISBN-13: 978-1264049059, ISBN-10: 1264049056)

We will also read some plays, but they will be able to be downloaded from Canvas for free.

Other Relevant Course Information

One of the best ways to succeed in my classes is to actively participate.   Be active in the discussion boards, submit work on time, and ask questions when you have them.  If possible, try to have the text book when the class starts, because we will dive in right away.


Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

  • CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
  • CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 11/24/2023 Sub#: 1341