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CCOG for TA 145 Spring 2024

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Course Number:
TA 145
Course Title:
Acting for the Camera
Credit Hours:
4
Lecture Hours:
40
Lecture/Lab Hours:
0
Lab Hours:
0

Course Description

Identifies, exercises and utilizes the actor's resources to develop acting techniques specifically meant for acting on a visually recorded medium (camera). Prerequisites/concurrent: TA 141. Audit available.

Intended Outcomes for the course

Upon completion of the course students should be able to:

  1. Prepare a text from a producer in order to deliver a performance.
  2. Adapt and modify stage performance skills for a recorded performance. 
  3. Perform an onscreen character in order to fulfill a role in a scripted, recorded narrative.

Course Activities and Design

Themes:
1. Appropriate use of relaxation and concentration
2. Analysis of script in preparation of a role
3. Application of video/camera related vocabulary
4. Critical analysis of a text
5. Team work
Skills:
1.0 BASIC THEATRE VOCABULARY
1.1 Master camera proximity/relationship to action & directions
1.2 Evaluate performances with a supportive as well as critical eye
1.3 Determine basic character goals, obstacles, and tactics
1.4 Demonstrate basic blocking terminology
2.0 SCRIPT/CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
1.1 Memorize assigned scenes
1.2 Develop or integrate given blocking/staging for scenes
1.3 Rehearse with partner in preparation for performance
1.4 Practice cold reading techniques for auditions
3.0 PERFORMANCES
1.1 Portray a developed character in relation to camera needs
1.2 Display text analysis choices consistent with the script
1.4 Demonstrate the partnership aspects of a scene (giveand-take)
1.5 Accept criticism and praise
4.0 PHYSICAL AND VOCAL WORK
1.1 Demonstrate a physical and vocal warm-up routine
1.2 Apply projection and articulation techniques in a scene
1.3 Determine necessary vigorous physical activity and apply rehearsal techniques
5.0 WRITING
1.1 Write character biographies as assigned
1.2 Write critical analysis of texts or scripts as assigned

Outcome Assessment Strategies

Quizzes on readings, existing produced script (provided by television producers)
Regular videotaping for individual critical feedback for camera performance skills.
Written assessments of script/character/choices.

Course Content (Themes, Concepts, Issues and Skills)

The course will include, but not be limited to, the following:
* Knowledge of basic acting skills: Text analysis, basic voice and diction practice, and stage and screen presence.
* Knowledge of the etiquette of film sets: Preparing for multiple takes, evaluating camera angles for performance adjustment,
* Knowledge of terminology in lighting, direction and lenses ay be discussed.
* Actor preparation: Location preparation,
* Additional content (optional):auditioning for commercials, ndustrial films, videos and web related promotion.
* Narrative issues: Develop an understanding of continuity storytelling, shaping an “out of sequence” performance, establishing a rhythm of continuity for delayed shooting.
* Students will prepare scripts from actual produced teleplays or screenplays and texts provided in class from instructor as well as in order to deliver a performance.
* Hone and adapt performance skills in order to match them with requisite on camera performance work.
* Perform an onscreen character in order to fulfill a role in a scripted, recorded narrative.