DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE ARTS AT UNIVERSITY OF GHANA
TheprogrammesinTheatre Artswill enable students gain insight into theories that underlie
theatre practice globally. The programmes seek to equip students with knowledge and skills in
theatre arts applications and help them explore their creativity in creative and technical theatre arts
practice. They are further envisaged to create a platform for students to share their concerns on
societal issues through theatrical productions and academic research papers and theses.
At the end of the successful completion of the programmes at the undergraduate level, the student
should be able to conceive, design and produce a creative work of industry standard; undertake
academic research in theatre and related disciplines and write critical essays and reviews on works
of art.
BACHELOR OF ARTS (BA)
Eligibility Criteria
The admission requirements for the Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Theatre Arts will be in line
with the general regulations guiding University ofGhanaadmissions to undergraduate
programmes.
ProgrammeStructure and Design
Duration: It will be a four-year degree programme.
Requirement to graduate: Students will be required to pass a minimum of 120 credits as required
by theUniversity of Ghanafor its general bachelors degree programme.
Programme Content: The programme consists of Core and Elective courses with the core courses
being compulsory for all students. At levels 100 and 200, all courses are compulsory, thus there
are no electives in line with University ofGhanacourse offerings. Students at these levels take in
addition the University Required Courses and courses offered in otherdepartmentsthey are
admitted to.
At level 300, students are offered core courses in both semesters in addition to electives they are to
choose from. Students may opt to follow the major or minor track based on their preferences. At
level 400, the student may choose to do a combined or single major.
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BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS (BFA)
Eligibility Criteria
The admission requirements for the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree in Theatre Arts will be in
line with the general regulations guidingUniversity of Ghanaadmissions to undergraduate
programmes. Additional requirement for the BFA will be for applicants to pass an
audition/interview to be conducted by the department to assess applicants understanding of the
intended areaof study and their capabilities.
Programme Structure and Design
Duration: It will be a four-year degree programme.
Requirement to graduate: Students will be required to pass a minimum of 131 credits as required
by the University of Ghana for its professional bachelor’s degree programme.
Programme Content: Students will combine with only courses from the Departments of Music and
Dance Studies at levels 100 and 200. At levels 300 and 400, students concentrate on courses
offered in the department but with the possibility of taking some recommended electives from
other departments. The programme will thus follow a 3:2:1:1 format. The programme consists of
Core and Elective courses with the core courses being compulsory for all students. At levels 100
and 200, all courses are compulsory, thus there are no electives in line with University of Ghana
course offerings. Students at these levels take in addition the University Required Courses.
At level 300, students are offered core courses in both semesters in addition to electives for
students to make choices. The electives offer area specialisations and the students will be guided
and counselled in the selection based on interests, abilities and intended career paths. Students will
be required to take an industrial internship during the long vacation as part of the professional
development process. At level 400, the student will on advice, choose elective courses based on
the area of specialisation of interest and intended career paths in addition to the core courses in
both semesters.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
THEA 111: Literary Orientation to the Theatre
This course covers introduction to literarytermsand devices that constitute the basic ingredients
of dramatic theory and practice. Topics to be treated include: definition of drama, elements of
form and technique; structure of drama; plot, conflict, character, setting or background, technical
facilities and the use of aesthetic and intellectual values in theatre practice.
THEA 112: Basics of the Living Theatre
This is a basic exploration of theatre laboratory techniques; the living stage and itstechnology.
The course examines fundamental instructions in stagecraft, performers’ confidence building,
performance spaces evaluation and utilization. Students will study basic play text analysis and
criticism, performance review and undertake rudimentary practical exercises in stage usage and
movement.
THEA 113: Theatre Workshop I
This course covers beginning acting and introduces students to the principles, processes and skills
of acting for the stage. Students are taken through warm-ups, theatre games and basic acting
exercises. Other areas covered include: breath, alignment, basic voice work, improvisation, and
trusting impulses. Students are prepared for theatre audition through analysis and exploration of
monologues and journal writing.
THEA 114: Speech I
This is an introductory course in body, voice and speech for effective communication. Students
undertake exercises and practical applications in a variety of speaking contexts focusing on vocal
function, breath, resonance, articulation and coping with performance stress. Other issues to be
discussed include: stage fright, poise, stamina building and appropriate use of gestures.
THEA 212: Play Analysis and Interpretation I
Studies in techniques of analyzing plays and interpreting them for production or performance
based on prescribed texts. There is emphasis on plot structure, inherent stylistic devices, character
spines and their development in terms of dramatic action, and conflicts resolution. There is
exploration of intellectual, emotional, moral and aesthetic values through interpretative exercises.
THEA 213: History and Origins of Drama and Theatre
The course discusses theories of origins of Theatre, including those of ancient civilizations of
Egypt, Greece and Rome with a focus on theatre architecture. Additional topics for study include:
conventions and organization of theatre; the contributions of playwrights and the role of critics
such as Aristotle and Horace. There is also the study of significant play texts by Aeschylus,
Sophocles, Euripides Aristophanes, Seneca, Terence and Plautus.
THEA 214: History of Medieval Theatre and Drama
This course covers the Medieval Theatre: its rebirth from the early medieval church altar as a
Trope, through its full development into miracles, moralities, mysteries, or pageants performed
outside the church and managed jointly by the church, the cities and trade guilds. The study
further looks at medieval modes of performance and theatre organization; Renaissance Theatre
and its concept of Humanism as well as its main legacies of Neo-classicism; Commedia Dell’arte
and architectural and scenic innovations. Significant play texts such as Everyman, The Second
Shepherds’ Play and Le Cid are studied within their historical contexts.
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THEA 215: Theatre Workshop II
This course covers body motion, eye and facial behaviour, paralanguage, touch,
proxemics, physical characteristics, artifacts and environmental factors as they affect
communicative exchanges. It further examines nature, origin, and use of speech and
language in social, cultural, symbolic, and functional contexts; investigation and analysis
of discourse and behavioural effects; significance of communication competence.
THEA 217 The Arts of the Theatre
The course focuses on theatre space and practice, nature, scope, function and social role; the
varied but related branches, including live stage productions, film, television and radio. The
common denominator for the types: the varied and unique demands in acting, directing, design
and presentation. It also covers a study of the collaborative art of the theatre and its purpose, tools,
organization and modes of operation. Selected play texts as well as plays in performance, film and
other media will be studied.
THEA 218: Theatre Laboratory
This course offers students to undertake drills in both verbal and nonverbal exercises and
assorted theatre games leading to the development of improvisational skills in a
laboratory situation. Other basic skills development includes installation and control of
lighting and sound equipment, stagecraft and theatremarketingtechnique.
THEA 331: Play Analysis and Interpretation II
The course covers exploration through interpretative exercises in stage terms. It offers studies in
techniques of analyzing plays and interpreting them for production or performance with emphasis
on plot structure inherent stylistic devices and spine as they relate to character development in
dramatic action. Other topics include: basic conflicts and resolution, intellectual, emotional, moral
and aesthetic values. Selected texts are based on Greek classical, medieval and Elizabethan plays.
THEA 332: Play Analysis and Interpretation III
This is a follow-up course to THEA 331. There are more exercises offered based on plot structure,
inherent stylistic devices and spine as they relate to character development in dramatic action.
There is the study of African performance traditions as they inform written plays. The selected
texts for analysis are those by key African playwrights.
THEA 333: History of Drama and Theatre: European 1600-1820
This is a selective approach of the study of the history of the theatre of Europe from the
seventeenth to the nineteenth century. Topics include: history of the theatre of England from the
Restoration era to Sentimental Drama; the License Act of 1738 and the emergence of the
Actor/Manager, Theatre in France with focus on some notable playwrights, including Moliere; the
French Neo-classicism; theatre in Italy and Commedia Dell’arte; the German Theatre with some
emphasis on the Sturn-und-Drang Movement and its effects; the Golden Age of Spanish Theatre.
THEA 334: Drama in African Societies
An examination and critical analysis of some of the different types of theatres in traditional
African cultures, particularly with regard to the use of narrative, ceremonies, ritual dance,
possession, masks or masquerades, and their roles in religious, political and social contexts. The
course also covers the emergence of popular forms of theatre as a syncretism between the
traditional and the contemporary in an ever-changing African society.
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THEA 335: Production Participation I
This course is designed to offer students the opportunity to put into practice various theories
studied under the programme. Students are required to undertake varied assignments and roles in
productions directed by students and faculty in a semester. The course enables students to develop
discipline, creativity and sound working attitudes to the practical theatre profession. Though
students work as a team, they are individually assessed by an assigned faculty at the end of the
production process.
THEA 336: Production Participation II
This course is designed to offer students the opportunity to put into practice various theories
studied under the programme. Students are required to undertake varied assignments and roles in
productions directed by students and faculty in a semester. The course enables students to develop
discipline, creativity and sound working attitudes to the practical theatre profession. Though
students work as a team, they are individually assessed by an assigned faculty at the end of the
production process.
THEA 337: Introduction to Directing
This course aims at preparing students in the study of play directing and introducing them
to key issues of directing text-based theatre. Students would be taken through basic
theories of directing and the directing process. Finally, students would be guided to
appreciate elements of theatrical design as directors. The class will combine lectures with
workshop, in which students’ findings would be discussed through group presentations.
The students test their skills through directing scenes from plays for assessment.
THEA 338: Theatre Management
The course focuses on the need to understand the script to establishing schedules, learning the
physical layout of the theatre, preparing for and coordinating rehearsals, checking on props and
scenic progress, supervising lighting, sound and scenery changes, running technical and dress
rehearsals, managing backstage activities during the show and closing the show at the end of its
run.
THEA 341: Stagecraft
This is an introductory course to the art of making, crafting and creating theatre visuals. It is
designed to give the theatre student a general knowledge of what goes on backstage during the
production process. It covers basic technical information concerning names of tools and materials
as well as construction techniques for flats, props as well as scene printing, rigging and striking of
sets.
THEA 342: Acting
This course investigates a variety of plays that require a heightened, non-naturalistic acting
treatment. There is a further engagement with exploring the physical and analytical demands of
some of these plays in relation to rhythm, emotion and text. The performer’s expression, style and
generated meaning are explored through improvisation and later demonstrated through the
developed site specific works.
THEA 343: Fundamentals of Radio, TV, Film and Video
The course investigates particularly aesthetic and basic technical principles of radio, television,
video and film. It will examine the form and structure of the moving image, the economies, both
cultural and monetary, of visual narratives, and their ability to reproduce in viewers the desire to
see more. It will further discuss television production principles, and effects of television viewing
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and consumption.
THEA 344: Drama inEducation: An Introduction
This is an introductory course on the philosophy and techniques of the art of drama for children. It
emphasises the art of Drama as a way of living: the means of enjoying and enriching life through
experience. The course covers basic kinds of Child Drama: process orientated, derived from ‘child
play’, and characterized by its spontaneous, existential qualities of experience; performanceoriented
which is concerned with short-term activities that provide practice either in theatre, or in
living.
THEA 345: Dramatic Theory and Criticism
The course introduces students to analysis, evaluation and criticism of both the theories and
practice of Drama. Forms like tragedy, comedy, as well as realism, naturalism and other modes
would be subjected to critical examination for the purpose of grasping them. Materials for
criticism, analysis and evaluation include theatre and film productions.
THEA 346: Costume and Make-Up
An introductory study of costume and make-up design for the theatre. The course will cover a
panoramic view of historic costume; elements of design, fabric science, costume design and
construction processes; make-up and accessories. Additionally, special focus will be given to
African theatre costume and make-up for the performer in varied acts.
THEA 348: Theatre for Development
The course aims at exposing students to what development is in Africa and the elements and
characteristics of Theatre. It challenges students to undertake community research projects and
encourages community members to actively participate in the research process. The course equips
students with project management community-based research skills and strategies for promoting
community development.
THEA 349: Voice and Speech
The emphasis of this course is on character interpretation through voice and speech rhythms; the
voice complements the text in building reality of character and situation. It further covers
effective communication of English (General British – GBE) as a second language through the
study, practice and use of its appropriate features; the rhythm patterns of individual words; stress
timed rhythm that promotes ready intelligibility, and proper intonation conveying the shades of
meaning intended by the speaker.
THEA 351: History of Theatre in Africa
The course explores the evolution and diversity of theatre as it investigates major historical
periods or traditions in Africa. It is intended to deliver to the student an overall appreciation of the
development and significance of range of theatrical forms and styles. The course will examine
regional as well as national developments and their contributions to training and practice in theatre
in Africa.
THEA 352: Introduction to Period Style
The course engages students to do a survey of the periods from the Mesopotamian times to the
Gothic Period. This is carried out by investigating the literature, culture, architecture, arts and the
society itself, and connecting it with how these sectors contribute to the present world as well as
the theatre.
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THEA 353: Writing for the Stage, Screen and Radio
The course focuses on fundamental theories and techniques of writing for the stage, screen and
radio. It involves elementary exercises in observation and discussion of issues such as the
inception of the play, identification of theme, character development, dramatic situation and
simple techniques of plot construction. Students conceive and write short pieces for stage, screen
and radio for evaluation and assessment.
THEA 354: Research Methods
The course introduces students to the basics of research. The purpose of research and the process
of data collection and presentation, citation of works of related literature (the various formats and
sources) and the analysis and interpretation of data is part of the information students are required
to imbibe. The course also considers the basic approaches to research and the sources of
information available. It takes students through practical steps of research and shows them how to
write research proposals and reports.
THEA 356 African Film and Video
The course generally introduces the student to audio-visual elements and investigates particularly
aesthetic and basic technical principles of film and video with special focus on the survey of
development and practice of film and video on the continent. A study of regional as well key
national industries will be complimented by the viewing and critical discussing of selected works
by notable African filmmakers. The role of continental film festivals as well as film organizations
will be discussed.
THEA 357: Graphics Design
This course is meant to teach students the role of graphics in theatrical design and practice.
Students will study the use of computers and current design software like Photoshop to create
especially publicity materials for productions. Topics to be treated include: using scanners, image
manipulation, layering, compositing, rendering and printing.
THEA 358: Dramatic Writing Laboratory
The course examines the writer in a social context through theories and practice in dramatic
writing. Topics to be discussed include: sources of ideas, inception of dramatic writing, plot
proposition and development, character motivation, conflict, climax and other dramatic devices.
Students will discuss form and content as key elements in structuring a play. Several writing
exercises will be undertaken for assessment.
THEA 359: Introduction to Lighting Design
This course covers fundamental principles of lighting design consisting of class projects and
practical exercises in the light laboratory and theatre spaces. Topics to be treated include a survey
of current lighting equipment available to the professional designer; basic lighting design; colour
theory; continuing development of the design idea as it relates to dramatic text; and elements of
composition.
THEA 361: Stage Management
This course is expected to offer students a good general grounding in theatre production. It aims at
developing the skills of a stage manager in human resource management, budgeting, scheduling
and working closely with other theatre personnel to develop an overall understanding of
performance. It further equips the student to adapt to varied production setting, ranging from more
traditional theatres to large scale outdoor events. Students take on assigned roles in departmental
productions for assessment.
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THEA 362: The Non-Fiction Film
This course covers non-fiction film productions such as documentaries, news reportage, nature and
wildlife films, ethnographic films and reality television shows. It will examine the history and
development of the genre and conceptual issues underlying production. The course will involve
viewing and writing critiques on selected productions.
THEA 363: Performance Practice I
This course examines the human body and voice as artistic, creative tools for communication and
expression. The performer engages with formal and informal techniques in developing the actor’s
identity and role through play which is basically expressed through the actor’s voice, body
gestures and movements as a total sum of his/her responses. The course will take students through
the development of their own style.
THEA 364: Performance Practice II
This is a course in performing on radio, film and television. It will introduce the student to
microphone and camera technique as well as body language and movement. The course will run as
a workshop providing opportunities for students to rehearse, perform, and evaluate scenes
according to different production styles to which performers may need to adjust to. Issues to be
covered include physical awareness for actors, concentrating on warming up body, relaxation and
control.
THEA 365: Educational Drama I
The course focuses on the development of educational drama and the theories influencing its
growth. It examines the fundamental characteristics of drama and theatre as it is used in creative
dramatics in childeducation. Students undertake minor projects with school children in selected
schools under faculty supervision.
THEA 366: Educational Drama II
A follow-up course in which students explore further theories and technique as applied in
educational drama. Students devise theatre games that invoke sensory and cognitive elements for
use in projects involving teenagers in upper basic schools. Selected schools for visits may include
specialized ones for persons with disabilities and disorders.
THEA 367: Community Theatre I
This course covers basic theories and practice of community theatre. Students study communities
and issues mitigating their development to which theatre could be used as intervening tool.
Students learn project management skills, community-based research skills and strategies for
promoting community development. They will be required to undertake small groups projects
conceived and mounted under faculty supervision.
THEA 368: Community Theatre II
This is a follow-up course in the principles, theories and techniques in applied theatre where
students undertake community-based projects aimed at addressing social issues of interest to the
people. Students apply TfD techniques in conceiving and executing their individual projects under
faculty supervision. A project report is submitted for assessment.
THEA 369: Introduction to Costume Design
A study of the basics in costume design for the theatre with a focus on the panoramic view of
historic costume, elements of design, fabric science, costume design and construction, make-up
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and accessories. Students will be taken through workshops that offer the opportunity to
demonstrate the applications in costume in theatre practice.
THEA 372: Non-Script Directing
The course examines the director in a social context through the practice of improvised drama.
Topics to be discussed include: sources of ideas, plot proposition and development, character
motivation, conflict, climax and other dramatic devices. Students will discuss form and content as
key elements in structuring a play for directing to suit a unique purpose.
THEA 373: Theatre and African Cultural Heritage
This course focuses on the relationship between theatre and culture especially in the area of
cultural preservation. Students examine the issue of African heritage through theatre practice at
festivals, ritual ceremonies and social events. Lectures and screenings will compliment visits to
selected events and performances.
THEA 374: Digital Story Telling
The course covers dramatic story telling techniques for screen with emphasis on the use of images
and sound to enhance plot, mood and characterization. Image and sound manipulation in digital
production to achieve desired effects will be studied. Various techniques in vogue will be explored
in order to arrive at industry standards.
THEA 375: Introduction to Set Design and Construction
This is an introductory course in set design and construction with a focus on aesthetics and
traditions. Students undertake exercises in design rendering, drafting and modelling which enables
them to conceive and develop design concepts and ideas. Students work under supervision as set
construction assistants in departmental productions for assessment.
THEA 376: Props Design and Construction
This course covers theatrical props design and construction by seeking to equip students with the
requisite knowledge in the creative use of materials such as fabric, wood, paper-mache, foam,
clay, polystyrene, foil, in the making of moulds of objects. Students work on the props
requirement of departmental productions as practice.
THEA 378: Sound Design: An Introduction
This course covers basic principles of sound design consisting of class projects and practical
exercises in the sound laboratory and theatre spaces. Topics to be treated include a survey of
current sound recording and playback equipment available to the professional sound
designer/engineer; basic sound design; audio effects; music theory; continuing development of the
design idea as it relates to dramatic text; and elements of composition.
THEA 382: Introduction to Make-up
This is an introductory course which explores the basic art of make-up and its role in theatre and
screen production. Topics cover history, aesthetics, materials, and procedures of makeup.
Screening of movies featuring elaborate make-up and make-over will complement lectures and
tutorials. Students will undertake basic make-up exercises for assessment.
THEA 424: African Arts and Ideas
This course studies African arts as composite and collaborative form of ideas. It seeks to define
the various art forms as they function in the African society with special emphasis on points of
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departure and convergence. It will survey unique regional as well as national developments and
practice. Students will make presentations on varied assignments.
THEA 425: Production Participation III
This course is designed to offer students the opportunity to put into practice various theories
studied under the programme. Students are required to undertake varied assignments and roles in
productions directed by students and faculty in a semester. The course enables students to develop
discipline, creativity and sound working attitudes to the practical theatre profession. Though
students work as a team, they are individually assessed by an assigned faculty at the end of the
production process.
THEA 426: Oriental Theatre
The course covers studies in representational forms of drama in Asia. Topics include: movement,
colour and use of symbolism in No and Kabuki Theatres of Japan; Chinese traditional
representational drama; theatre and ideology in Chinese Revolutionary Opera; Sanskrist and
Hindu Drama in India; Dance Theatres of Thailand, Bali and Burma.
THEA 427: African-American Theatre
The course introduces students to African-American literary traditions and dramatic heritage,
specifically from the Harlem Renaissance to the present. Students in this class will read, analyse
and discuss the works of playwrights such as Lorrain Hansberry, Langston Hughes, James
Baldwin, August Wilson, Amiri Baraka amongothers. Particular focus will be given to the
historical, political and socio-cultural factors that shaped these works and how they articulate the
collective struggles, resistance and aspirations of African-Americans.
THEA 428: Media and Society
The course will study the role and function of the Media in Ghana and elsewhere, the effects and
impact of the mass media, and the media as agents of democracy and development. Analysis of the
relationship of electronic and print media in Ghana to the Ghanaian society through the
examination of a wide range of material: news, current affairs, documentary, drama, situation
comedy, features, editorials, etc. will be carried out.
THEA 432: Production Participation IV
This course is designed to offer students the opportunity to put into practice various theories
studied under the programme. Students are required to undertake varied assignments and roles in
productions directed by students and faculty in a semester. The course enables students to develop
discipline, creativity and sound working attitudes to the practical theatre profession. Though
students work as a team, they are individually assessed by an assigned faculty at the end of the
production process.
THEA 433 African Performance Theories
The course examines the performing arts in traditional and contemporary African societies: ritual
and religious beginning, social contexts, types and functions. The fusion of drama, music and
dance as “total theatre”, though existing separately, depends on purpose and circumstances. Topics
to be treated include: folk-drama, ritual performances, festivals, dance drama, performance-music
and choreography. The course further discusses the use of space, structure and form of traditional
African performances.
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THEA 434: Stage Make-up
This course covers advanced study in the theories and principles of theatrical make-up. It will
examine planning the make-up and relating it to the character; applying the various types such as
the corrective or the non-realistic. Students study the creation of artificial wounds, swellings,
beards, moustaches, bald and other hair types.
THEA 435: Effective Communication
The course seeks to consolidate the work done in speech training. There is revision of theory
governing the features of the target variety of English and practice in their use; dictionary use for
checking pronunciation; the use of stress timed rhythm and effective focusing to convey message
in the different types of utterances: statements, questions, commands and interjections.
Communication skills that enhance performance, audience awareness, self-involvement and
spontaneity is imparted.
THEA 436: African Plays and Playwrights
A study of selected African playwrights and their works, representing broadly the regions of the
continent, with attention to their production philosophies or working methods, their target
audiences; social, economic or political concerns; characterization, use of language, spectacle, plot
structure and other dramatic devices. The course aims at equipping students with the analytical
tools for critiquing African plays. The scope of critical exercise may be widened to include
relevant ongoing staff and student productions.
THEA 437 Puppet Theatre
This course is structured to explore various puppetry styles as they apply in theatre practice.
Puppets will be made and students will be given tools to apply to any inanimate object or puppet
to bring it to life. There will be an exploration into the essence of movement and how to transfer it,
to give the illusion of life to anything. The course culminates in an exhibition by students for
assessment.
THEA 438 Production and Project Development
This course takes the form of a simulated event which starts from the conceptualization to the
completion of a particular project. It is a practical course that exposes students to independent
research, self-determination, designer vision and practical application of current trends in fulfilling
the task. The student works under close faculty supervision in executing the planned project.
THEA 439 Modern West African Drama
This course covers the study of West African plays and playwrights. It examines the writers’
social background, concepts of theatre and the factors that influenced their works. The course will
take a critical look at select plays with the aim of discovering major concerns and relevance for
readers and audiences. Issues of style, language and other features will be examined.
THEA 441 Shakespeare
This course introduces students, regardless of their background, to the treatment of plays and
theatre of Shakespeare. Emphasis is on the detailed treatment of Shakespearian works and its
relevance to contemporary 21st Century Ghana and Africa. It explores the range and variety of
interpretations of the plays, both in critical writings and in performance.
THEA 442: Events Production
This course provides an overview of the variety of special events, festivals, celebrations and
activities and the types of organizations that produce and present them. It examines management
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practices, including how events are designed, funded, staffed and promoted. The course examines
human congregational activities as self-expression and creation of culture and community.
Students are involved in events taking place both on campus and off-campus.
THEA 443: Legal and Ethical Issues in Arts Practice
The course focuses on legal aspects of the arts andentertainmentindustry. It examinesbusiness
realities of industry, with focus on techniques for analysing behaviour, making strategic decisions,
and overcoming obstacles to achieving results as producer, writer, performer or director. It further
surveys a range of contracts involved in productions, including literary submission and option
agreements, artist employment, director employment, writer collaboration agreements, coproduction
agreements, music rights license and negotiation strategies. Topics include intellectual
property and proprietary rights, project development and production, talent, guilds, distribution
and financing.
THEA 444: Special Effects Design and Production
This is a course in motion graphics and visual effects design for theatre, film, video and television.
Areas to be covered include pre-visualizing, titling, matting, rotoscoping and compositing using
industry-standard software application. A study of selected science fiction and horror movies
depicting unique visual special effects will be screened for discussion. Students work in small
groups on projects for assessment.
THEA 445 Technical Theatre
The course is expected to develop in students the technical skills for the theatre. Issues to be
discussed include creative costume, set and props design; sound and light design and operations
and production management. Students also undergo training in theatre safety, facilities and
equipment usage and maintenance through assigned roles in productions.
THEA 446: Theatre andTourism
This course is designed for students to have an understanding and appreciation of how theatre
facilitates tourism to promote national growth. It creates the platform for students to generate
effective ways of inculcating theatrical elements in harnessing tourism. Issues to be examined
include management of cultural sites and artefacts; historical and indigenous performances;
cultural policies.
THEA 447: Investigating Cyberspace
This course examines the cyberspace through the use of computers in multimedia design,
production and distribution. The course will explore the creative aspects of the World Wide Web
as used for personal and collective expressions; the use of smart phones, tablets and digital
hardware in various life situations; social media applications. The course will further investigate
the impact of cyber technology on the society.
THEA 448: Modern Western Drama
This course examines the social and artistic conditions that led to the birth of modern western
drama in the late 19th and 20th centuries. It traces lines of development and influences that build
traditions of Realism, Naturalism, Expressionism, etc during the period. It further looks at the
‘revolt’ against realistic and naturalistic theatre starting with Brecht’s Epic Theatre, the Theatre of
the Absurd and some Avant Garde theatre practitioners. Selected plays of the period will be
studied.
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THEA 449: Film and other Arts
The course examines the interrelationships between film and fine arts, performing arts and
literature, with emphasis on ways these other arts have influenced film. It also discusses how film
has affected the understanding of these arts in modern times. It will further examine the composite
nature of film as encompassing these other arts in production. Selected hybrid creative productions
involving several art forms will be discussed.
THEA 453: Acting I
This course will break down all the areas in which students can work and search for realities in
themselves which serve the character, narrative and the stage or screen performance. It will put
their instincts and sense of truth, their understanding of human realities to use; development of
specific and real actions, communication of artistic statement, and will discuss topics such as: the
actor, the object exercises, the scenario and the role.
THEA 454: Acting II
This follow-up course covers unarmed combats like falls, rolls, flips, punches, kicks and blocks as
required in stunts in stage and screen productions. Students also study dialects and accents in
language as used in character portrayals. The course further covers realistic usage and handling of
props by the actor. Students will undertake variety of roles in productions for assessment.
THEA 455: Theatre for Development I
This advanced course in the theories and practice of theatre for development (TfD) covers project
concept development, scripting, casting, rehearsals and production. Students will be required to
select communities with identifiable issues mitigating development to which theatre could be used
as intervening tool. Preliminary visits and investigations will be put in a report for assessment.
THEA 456: Theatre for Development II
In this follow-up course students will design a TfD project to execute based on the preliminary
study conducted. Key issues like ethics, customary law and practices will be discussed. Equipped
with project management skills, community-based research skills and strategies for promoting
community development, students will undertake individual projects conceived and mounted
under faculty supervision.
THEA 457: Radio, TV, Film and Video I
This is a course designed to advance the knowledge and skills of students in understanding the
concept, design and production of digital audio/video works. It builds upon the fundamentals
acquired at Level 300 by including further studies in history, research, aesthetics and their
applications to practice. Students conceive and direct small group creative pieces under
supervision for assessment. The class also visits selected media houses to get acquaintance with
mediabusinesspractice.
THEA 458: Radio, TV, Film and Video II
This is a follow-up course in which students discuss selected theories as they underscore technique
in practice. Organised fieldtrips help students develop screenplays for their individual short movie
projects. They undertake shooting on locations, manage cast and crew and go through postproduction,
all in developing professional movie making experience. Students screen projects are
publicly exhibited followed by oral presentations questions from viewers are addressed.
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THEA 459: Production Management
This course covers the creative, organizational and managerial function of the producer in a media
production. Topics to be covered includefinance, fund-raising, budgeting, distribution, copyrights,
negotiating contracts, recruiting crew, location scouting, managing properties,setting up and
managing an edit room; planning and carrying out cost-effective on-line editing, sound mixing,
colour correction and titling sessions for accurate and on-time project delivery; managing
production cast and crew in both studio and location set-up.
THEA 461: Directing I
This course on advanced directing focuses on the key elements that enter into the collective art of
theatre; from script to the actor and the requisite training; from styles of production to the routine
but essential matter of organizing the production company. Students will discuss various
motivations for selecting plays for directing and undertake short class exercises in scene study.
THEA 462: Directing II
As a follow-up course, students will examine the central emphasis in directing a script from start
to finish; the interpretation of the script by the director and his cast as well as the issue of style and
form. Students select, cast and direct full-length plays under faculty supervision and submit
prompt books for assessment.
THEA 463: Drama in Education I
This is an advanced course in the development of educational drama and the major theories that
have influenced its growth and practice. It will examine the fundamental characteristics of already
familiar activities like “drama” and “theatre” and to recognize a third activity – creative dramatics,
comprising elements from each in varying degrees.
THEA 464: Drama in Education II
In this follow-up course, students will go through the process of playmaking as aid to educational
pedagogy especially for basic school. Students study the educational curriculum and effective
methods of teaching. Students conceive and design projects in creative dramatics to be executed in
selected schools within the city under faculty supervision.
THEA 465: Costume Design, Construction and History I
The course seeks to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in theatre costume design
and construction. It covers theory, technique and practical application of the principles of costume
design. Topics to be treated include: costume history, colour theory, mass, line, proportion and
emphasis. Students examine the distinction between costume andfashion.
THEA 466: Costume Design, Construction and History II
In this follow-up course, students learn to analysis and interpret plays, develop character sketches
and conduct clothing research. Students study advanced rendering techniques in designing stage
costumes and the use of local materials in theatrical productions. Students undertake individual
practical assignments in costuming a production in the department under faculty supervision.
THEA 467: Stage Lighting I
This course is designed to provide the student with advanced knowledge about stage lighting.
Students will study key theories underlying lighting design needed to grasp the technical
challenges in the area. Topics to be treated include history of lighting design; colour theory;
lighting different types of performances; plotting light cues for production and special effects.
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THEA 469: Sound Design and Production
The focus of this course is on sound and audio in acoustic, audio, and digital domain. It covers
practice of techniques for recording, editing, and creating soundscapes. It further explores sound
design for productions and techniques for mixing, reinforcement, and signal processing. Topics
include use of delay, equalization, and microphone placement for sound reinforcement. Students
also study the creation of sound effects, control of MIDI data and design techniques for musical
film and theatre.
THEA 471: Scenic Design and Construction I
This advanced course focuses on the development of design concepts and ideas for theatrical
productions. It covers studio sessions of water-colour renderings, drafting of ground plans and
elevations. It further examines the use of orthographic, isometric, cabinet, oblique, sectional, detail
and working drawing, painting including backdrops and use of scales-models and other
techniques.
THEA 472: Scenic Design and Construction II
Following from the previous semester, students will be taken through two and three-dimensional
construction of units of sets, rigging and striking. Stage props construction will also be covered.
Students will examine the challenges posed by different stages for the set designer. Students will
be assigned work on departmental productions and submit project reports detailing work done for
assessment.
THEA 475: Dramatic Writing I
This is advanced course dramatic writing covering aspects such as, structure, action, conflict and
resolution. Students will analyse selected written scripts (both screenplays and stage plays) in
order to discover unique techniques and styles of popular professional writers. They will also
examine some other scripts to discuss identifiable problems in dramatic writing for the
inexperienced.
THEA 476: Dramatic Writing II
In this follow-up course, students will study the theories underlying dramatic writing and examine
selected works demonstrating them strongly. Through screenings, workshops and discussions
students acquire the needed skills and knowledge to meet the challenges of current writing
demands. Students will develop their own original dramatic works under faculty supervision. Final
assessment will involve script testing through reading or staging.
THEA 477: Internship
This is a course designed to create opportunities for the student to learn through practice by
working in positions in a professional theatre organization/facility that creates and presents, to the
public, works in the theatre arts. Students will be required to submit written reports to their faculty
supervisors. The department will also receive report from assigned workplace supervisor on the
professional conduct of the student.
THEA 478 Theatre Techniques
This course aims at equipping students with the technical knowledge and skills required for
theatrical production. Students explore the fundamentals of the various technical areas but
concentrate on one for in-depth study. While carrying out various assigned responsibilities in
departmental productions, students will be required to produce a report based on investigations
carried out in the area of concentration.
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THEA 479: Arts Review and Criticism
This course covers the analysis of social, cultural, literary and moral issues in the arts with critical
examination of it as sources of information, propaganda, and entertainment. Selected theatre
productions and other arts products such as films, radio and television programmes will be
analysed within the context in which they were produced. Students will be required to write short
critiques in addition to a full semester essay on an approved topic for assessment.
THEA 482: TheatreBusiness
The course covers the study of the business of theatre and theatrical organizations in contemporary
period. Students examine the importance of various aspects of a viable theatrical organization
including: the mission statement, incorporation and non-profit status, control boards, funding
sources, and strategies. They further study arts administration,accountingpractices, front of house
procedures, marketing and publicity.
THEA 484: Drama Therapy
The healing and therapeutic aspects of theatre and drama using drama therapy are explored under
this course. Key topics to be treated include the role of play in child development; types of play
and major techniques in drama therapy and their relationships to play and performance.
Combining theory, technique and practice, students train with real life situations under faculty
supervision.
