Dramatic Arts
29 courses · MiraCosta College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026
DRAM 105 Introduction to Theatre
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- THTR-111
This course exposes students to fundamental practices and creative processes in dramatic arts, focusing on the relationship of theatre to various cultures throughout history and on the contributions of significant individuals. It introduces elements of the production process, including collaboration, playwriting, acting, directing, design, and criticism, and it explores differing periods, styles, and genres of theatre through reading, discussion, films, and live theatre critique. C-ID THTR-111.
DRAM 107 Introduction to Design for Performance
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- THTR-172
This course explores the principles, elements, techniques, and practices of design for performance. Topics include analysis of space, movement, mood, period, style, texture, materials, and color using industry-standard techniques of rendering, model-making, drafting, and presentation. The classroom experience stresses the importance of working collaboratively on projects and understanding critique as part of the design process. Materials Fee: $45.00. C-ID THTR-172.
DRAM 109 Practicum of Voice and Diction
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- Laboratory 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course emphasizes vocal training for actors. It includes the basics of vocal training: projection, articulation, expression, breathing techniques, and relaxation as needed for theatrical productions.
DRAM 110 Voice and Diction
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course introduces students to techniques for improving the quality, flexibility, and effectiveness of the speaking voice. Students examine and practice clear articulation of American English sounds. Topics include vocal expressiveness and variety, physical relaxation, posture, breath control techniques, and the International Phonetic Alphabet.
DRAM 123 Script Analysis for Performance and Design
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- THTR-114
This course explores the principles, theories, and techniques of play script analysis and script scoring for theatrical production. Students learn how to read and break down a play for textual analysis, script scoring, dramatic structure, imagery, and character development. C-ID THTR-114.
DRAM 126 Shakespearean Acting Lab
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- Laboratory 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This lab course focuses on the basics of classical acting techniques, including comprehension and delivery of Shakespeare's works. It includes ensemble work, exercises, games, and the examination of universal themes.
DRAM 130 Acting I
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- THTR-151
This course focuses on the fundamentals of acting and performance techniques based on Stanislavski's principles. It emphasizes the ability to express thought, emotion, and character through the effective use of voice, movement, and script analysis. C-ID THTR-151.
DRAM 131 Audition Preparation for the Stage
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- Lecture 1 hour, laboratory 3 hours
- Prerequisite
- DRAM 130
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course teaches theatre audition techniques: monologue and song presentation; staging; cold-reading techniques; self-directed rehearsal; presentation; self-marketing through cover letters, resumes, and headshots; material selection; audition etiquette and professionalism.
DRAM 133 Performance and Design Portfolio Practicum
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- Laboratory 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course focuses on the study and practical application of theatre techniques in competitive performance and design. Students enter by audition/interview or nomination by the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival. May be repeated three times.
DRAM 134 Introduction to Performance
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course explores the theories, principles, techniques, and practices of performance. Topics include ritual, play, performativity, performing, performance process, and global and intercultural performances. The classroom experience requires performance application and includes performances to entertain, create beauty, mark or change identity, make or foster community, heal, teach, or persuade.
DRAM 139 Stage and Concert Management
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course introduces the skills and procedures involved in stage managing a theatrical, dance, or music production. Through hands-on experience and observation, students learn to develop the knowledge and skills involved in managing a live performance. They also learn how to properly devise and design scheduling systems to prep, organize, and run rehearsals; design and develop a production book and prompt script; run appropriate dimmer and sound checks; design, organize, and format scenic shifts and their execution; and develop systems for calling lighting and sound cues during live performance.
DRAM 141 Lighting Design for Theatre, Television, and Film
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- THTR-173
This course introduces students to the technique and practices of theatrical stage lighting and lighting for film and television. It develops skills relative to common applications in these fields. Students engage in both lecture and practice (live or virtually), creating and designing lighting projects in class as well as working on current MiraCosta College Theatre productions. Students evaluate and analyze their skills and creations and critically reflect on their execution. Materials Fee: $25. C-ID THTR-173.
DRAM 146 Costume Design for Theatre, Television, and Film
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- THTR-174
This course provides students with the opportunity to study costume history, design, and basic construction techniques, serving as an introduction to costuming for theatre, television, and film. Students learn about fabrics and conventional and non-conventional costume materials C-ID THTR-174.
DRAM 148 Acting for the Camera
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours
- Prerequisite
- DRAM 130
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course introduces performance for the camera concerning the mediums of film, video, and television. Students examine practical approaches and techniques specifically required for each different medium to provide a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between performance and media.
DRAM 201 Rehearsal and Performance: Dramatic Theatre
- Units
- 1-3
- Hours
- Laboratory 9 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- THTR-191
This course provides students with the opportunity to perform in non-musical, dramatic theatrical productions. Students are instructed in research, textual analysis, and fundamental basic-to-advanced acting skills required to accomplish dramatic acting techniques. All students participate in the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival academic theatre competition. The course emphasizes the rehearsal process and culminates in public performances. May be repeated two times. C-ID THTR-191.
DRAM 202 Rehearsal and Performance: Comedic Theatre
- Units
- 1-3
- Hours
- Laboratory 9 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- THTR-191
This course provides students with the opportunity to perform in non-musical, comedic theatrical productions. It provides students with comic devices, physicality, timing, and styles work that is required for the performance of comedic texts. All students participate in the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival academic theatre competition. The course emphasizes the rehearsal process and culminates in public performances. May be repeated two times. C-ID THTR-191.
DRAM 203 Rehearsal and Performance: Classical Theatre
- Units
- 1-3
- Hours
- Laboratory 9 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- THTR-191
This course allows students to explore a classical theatrical text and the historical context of a chosen play. Students are instructed in the special vocal and movement skills required to accomplish classical acting techniques. All students participate in the American College Theater Festival academic theatre competition. The course emphasizes the rehearsal process for classical acting and culminates in public performance. May be repeated two times. C-ID THTR-191.
DRAM 204 Rehearsal and Performance: Musical Theatre
- Units
- 1-3
- Hours
- Laboratory 9 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- THTR 191
This course provides students with the opportunity to perform in main-stage musical productions. All students participate in the American College Theater Festival academic theatre competition. The course emphasizes the rehearsal process and culminates in public performances. May be repeated two times. C-ID THTR 191.
DRAM 210 Rehearsal and Performance: Technical Theatre
- Units
- 1-3
- Hours
- Laboratory 9 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course provides students with theatre production experience. All students participate in the Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival academic theatre competition. Production crew positions include stage or house management, construction, scenery, properties, costume, lighting, sound, and running crews. The course emphasizes the rehearsal process and culminates in public performances either in person or online. May be repeated three times. C-ID THTR- 192
DRAM 222 Introduction to Black Theater
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course explores Black theatre from the pre-Civil War era to the present. It is designed to give students of all backgrounds an introductory understanding of this genre. Topics covered include elements of style, design, and criticism. The course also examines issues of politics, race, and gender in historic and contemporary American theatre.
DRAM 226 Advanced Performance Lab
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- Laboratory 3 hours
- Prerequisite
- DRAM 126
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This advanced performance lab course focuses on advanced process and methodology, performance styles, and performance approaches.
DRAM 227 Dramatic Improvisation
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- Laboratory 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Students explore in-depth personal connections to issues, ideas, and themes through dramatic improvisation. These dramatic improvisations stimulate questions about characterization and provide answers toward defining a character's motivations, actions, and traits within these imaginary circumstances. Process drama develops an actor's creativity, positive choice-making, flexibility, and ability to improvise dialogue, act, react, connect, and disconnect in a real, truthful human experience. This advanced course is offered in conjunction with The Actor's Academy.
DRAM 231 Acting II
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours
- Prerequisite
- DRAM 130
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- THTR-152
This course provides an in-depth application of Stanislavski's principles with an emphasis on characterization, scene study, methodology, and process. Acting studies focus on performance from varied acting philosophies (e.g., Meisner, Michael Chekhov, Hagen), styles, and genres. May be repeated one time. C-ID THTR-152.
DRAM 232 Movement for the Stage
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- Lecture 1 hour, laboratory 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course creates an environment in which students explore dynamic movement. It emphasizes not only physical control, strength, flexibility, and creative imagination but also the integration of mind, body, and emotion. May be repeated one time. Materials Fee: $20.00.
DRAM 253 Makeup for Theatre, Television, and Film
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- THTR-175
This course introduces students to the technique and practices of makeup for theatre, television, and film and develops skills relative to the common applications for stage and film. Students engage in the practice hands-on and create looks ranging from basic corrective makeup to fantasy character creation. Students evaluate and analyze the effectiveness of their makeup, reflect on their skills, produce proper design documentation, and put makeup design and application into practice. Materials Fee: $85.00. C-ID THTR-175.
DRAM 256 Stagecraft for Theatre, Television, and Film
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- THTR-171
This course introduces students to the technique and practices of stagecraft for theatre, television, and film, and it develops skills relative to the common applications found backstage. Students engage in both lecture and practice, gaining hands-on experience while demonstrating skills learned in course work. Creating scenic environments for current MiraCosta College Theatre productions, students evaluate and analyze the effectiveness of their creations, critically reflect on their skills, and put them into practice. Materials Fee: $50.00. C-ID THTR-171.
DRAM 273 Acting, Voice, and Movement Workshop
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- Laboratory 3 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course explores the study of acting techniques, scene study, ensemble performance, and the development of voice and movement skills. This course culminates in a live theatrical performance.
DRAM 292 Internship Studies
- Units
- 0.5-14
- Corequisite
- Complete 54 hours of work per unit, paid or unpaid
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides students the opportunity to apply the theories and techniques of their discipline in an internship position in a professional setting under the instruction of a faculty-mentor and site supervisor. It introduces students to aspects of the roles and responsibilities of professionals employed in the field of study. Topics include goal-setting, employability skills development, and examination of the world of work as it relates to the student's career plans. Students must develop new learning objectives and/or work/intern at a new site upon each enrollment.
DRAM 299 Occupational Work Experience Education
- Units
- 0.5-14
- Corequisite
- Complete 54 hours of work per unit, paid or unpaid
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is intended for students who are employed in a job directly related to their major or career area of interest. It allows such students the opportunity to apply the theories and skills of their discipline to their position and to undertake new responsibilities and learn new skills at work. Topics include goal-setting, employability skills development, and examination of the world of work as it relates to the student's career plans. Students must develop new learning objectives and/or work/intern at a new site upon each enrollment.