Past Courses

Fall 2008 Courses:

TD 352T: Tap 1 Beginner
Instructor: Robin Lewis

This course will introduce the student to the basic elements of steps and tap dancing. Basic steps, technique and vocabulary will be emphasized. Class will consist of a warm up, extended barre and center floor work. Combinations of steps with and without music will be used to understand rhythm, syncopation and timing. Students will be introduced to the styles of historic tap performers such as Astaire, Powell and Hines.

We will explore the often highly stylized genre of Musical Theatre Dance in its various forms, including original Broadway choreography. The focus of the semester will be on Audition Techniques; periodic discussions on significant choreographers and their contributions to musical theatre and identifying the expectations of professionalism as it pertains to musical theatre.

TD351T: Singing for the Stage
Instructor: Lyn Koenning

This course is designed to introduce vocal technique for musical theatre singing (Contemporary Commercial Music, or “CCM”) to students who may have little or no prior training in music, with the goal that each student will finish the semester feeling a great sense of accomplishment from developing the skills that will help them develop into an actor and/or dancer who competently and confidently sings. We will cultivate these functional skills and learn performance practice through the study of musical theatre repertoire.

We will spend a great deal of time working on vocal range, flexibility, and endurance as we identify successful vocal practice strategies and effective technique. By the end of the semester you will also be able to recognize and interpret basic musical terminology and musical notation. The course will culminate in an end-of-semester performance showcase as the last class meeting.

Spring 2008 Courses:

TD 352T: The Broadway Musical: Survey of Broadway Choreography Post–1970
Instructor: Robin Lewis

From the faced paced opening audition number of A Chorus Line to Celinto's “Dancing through Life” in Wicked,  Legend Bob Fosse's Chicago to The Producers' Susan Stroman.  Explore Musical Theater Choreographers and their dances post 1970s in this fun and high energy Dance class.  Requirement:  must have some ballet experience.

TD351T: Vocal Repertoire and Rehearsal Techniques for Musical Theatre
Instructor: Lyn Koenning

This course will develop and deepen students' knowledge of musical theatre repertoire and explore musical theatre and rehearsal techniques. Students will rehearse and perform solo and ensemble numbers from a variety of musicals and build a portfolio of songs suitable for auditions. Individual coaching sessions with the instructor outside of class time available as a component of the course.

Fall 2007 Courses:

TD 352T: The Broadway Musical: Survey of Broadway Choreography Pre–1970
Instructor: Robin Lewis

In this dance–based class, learn choreographic styles that made the American Musical great. Through movement and analysis, explore the dances of some of the most prominent musical theater choreographers and productions pre 1970: From Agnes DeMille to Bob Fosse; Oklahoma to Sweet Charity; from stage to film. Gives you the best seat in the house to the greatest shows of all time.

TD351T: Singing for the Stage
Instructor: Lyn Koenning

Vocal technique for musical theatre singing, including vocal exercises and breathing technique. Application of technique through the study of beginning–level Broadway up–tempos and ballads. Course Pre–requisites: A major in the Department of Theatre and Dance and Upper Division standing (60+ college credit hours).