Drama

🎭 Course Title:

Introduction to Drama: Exploring Theatre, Performance, and Expression

🎯 Course Objectives:

By the end of this course, students will:

• Understand the fundamentals of drama and theatre.

• Explore different acting techniques and styles.

• Analyze dramatic texts and characters.

• Learn about stagecraft, scriptwriting, and performance.

• Build confidence and creativity through practical exercises.

📚 Course Modules & Content Outline:

Module 1: Introduction to Drama and Theatre

• What is drama? What is theatre?

• The history of drama (Ancient Greek, Elizabethan, Modern)

• Key genres: tragedy, comedy, farce, melodrama, realism

• The role of drama in society and culture

Module 2: Elements of Drama

• Key components:

  • Character

  • Plot

  • Theme

  • Dialogue

  • Tension

  • Mood

  • Space and time

• Script vs. improvisation

Module 3: Acting Techniques and Characterization

• Physical and vocal warm-ups

• Stanislavski method (realism and emotional truth)

• Brecht and epic theatre

• Method acting, improvisation, and Meisner technique

• Building a character (objectives, motivations, backstory)

Module 4: Voice, Movement, and Body Language

• Voice projection and articulation

• Movement in performance

• Body language and facial expressions

• Using space effectively on stage

• Mime and physical theatre basics

Module 5: Improvisation and Creative Play

• Rules of improvisation

• “Yes, and…” technique

• Solo and group improvisation games

• Spontaneous storytelling

• Developing confidence and spontaneity

Module 6: Script Analysis and Scene Work

• Reading and interpreting scripts

• Scene breakdown and beats

• Dialogue and subtext

• Working with a partner or ensemble

• Short scene performance (monologue or duologue)

Module 7: Playwriting and Devising Theatre

• Elements of a script (structure, dialogue, stage directions)

• Writing a short play or monologue

• Devised theatre: creating original scenes as a group

• Exploring themes and messages

• Storyboarding and scripting a scene

Module 8: Stagecraft and Theatre Production

• Basic stage directions and terminology

• Set design and stage layout

• Costume, props, lighting, and sound

• Roles in theatre production (director, stage manager, designer)

• Creating a performance on a budget

Module 9: Performance and Presentation

• Rehearsal techniques

• Memorization strategies

• Working with feedback

• Performing for an audience (live or virtual)

• Stage fright and confidence building

Module 10: Drama and Society

• Theatre for social change

• Political and community theatre

• Diversity and representation in drama

• Global theatre traditions (e.g., Noh, Commedia dell’arte, African storytelling)

🧪 Assessment Methods:

• Weekly practical assignments (monologues, improvisations)

• Script or scene analysis

• Short written reflections or journals

• Final performance project (live or recorded)

• Peer or instructor feedback

🎓 Target Audience:

• High school and college students

• Aspiring actors or playwrights

• Educators introducing drama to students

• Anyone interested in self-expression and performance

🛠️ Delivery Format:

• Video demonstrations and lessons

• Downloadable scripts and worksheets

• Recorded student submissions and feedback

• Interactive Zoom/Google Meet sessions (optional)

• Certificate of completion