Dramatic Arts
40 courses · San Diego Mesa College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
DRAM 100A Fundamentals of Performance and Production I
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 192-216 hours lab
- Corequisite
- DRAM 104A
This hands-on course focuses on beginning acting skills, scenic design and construction techniques, and theatrical production. Students participate in all aspects of theatrical production through a college theatre company. This course is designed for first-year dramatic arts majors.
DRAM 100B Fundamentals of Performance and Production II
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 192-216 hours lab
- Corequisite
- DRAM 104B
This hands-on course focuses on beginning acting skills, lighting design and the technical aspects of lighting for the stage, and theatrical production. Students participate in all aspects of theatrical production through a college theatre company. This course is designed for first-year dramatic arts majors.
DRAM 103 Acting for Non-majors
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course introduces students to improvisational acting, treating acting as process-centered. The instructor leads the students using a variety of exercises to imagine, enact and reflect upon human experiences, emphasizing problem-solving skills in group improvisational work. This course is designed for introductory drama students and anyone who is interested in studying acting.
DRAM 104A Theatre Company Performance I
- Units
- 1-2
- Hours
- 48-108 hours lab
- Corequisite
- DRAM 100A
This course is an introduction to the performance process of a college theatre company production. Emphasis is placed on the introduction of the artistic process including work ethic, collaboration, and execution of assigned duties throughout all phases of the performance. This course is intended for students majoring in drama. Unit value for this course is determined by the given role.
DRAM 104B Theatre Company Performance II
- Units
- 1-2
- Hours
- 48-108 hours lab
- Corequisite
- DRAM 100B
This course is the second level of the performance process of a college theatre company production. Emphasis is placed on the development of the artistic process within the theatrical performance. This course is intended for students majoring in drama. Unit value for this course is determined by the given role.
DRAM 105 Introduction to Dramatic Arts
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This survey course introduces fundamental practices and creative processes in the dramatic arts. Through experimentation and examination, students gain greater insight and appreciation of the dramatic arts as an agent of change that is vital to the humanities. Aspects of theatre production and collaboration are covered through lecture, group discussion and participation. This course is designed for dramatic arts majors and all students interested in the dramatic arts.
DRAM 106 Voice-Over Performance
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32 - 36 hours lecture/48-54 hours lab
This course is practical study of the voice-over industry. Emphasis is placed on voice-over performance techniques for radio and television commercials, multimedia, and other audio and video presentations. Students are expected to read aloud extensively as well as to record their voice for critique and self-evaluation. Topics include an overview of the voice-over business, marketing, current technology, and professional work and studio etiquette as well as legal and ethical issues in voice-over performance. Social and cultural constructs, economics, technology, and equity and social justice are explored. This course is designed for students pursuing media-related majors and anyone interested in media-related industries.
DRAM 107 Study of Filmed Plays
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
- Advisory
- ENGL C1000 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course is a study of cinematic adaptations of plays, comparing stage and screen versions in the areas of form and structure, writing, and production. Emphasis is placed on developing students' appreciation for dramatic art and providing practice in the art of theatre criticism. This course is designed for Drama majors and any student interested in the Humanities.
DRAM 108 Playwriting
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- Eligible to enroll in a transferable English composition course.
This course gives students an opportunity to write dramatic material for the theatre. Topics and exercises include exploring dialogue, monologue, exposition, writing for various voices, and other areas related to playwriting. Students are required to write scenes and monologues that explore issues of structure, in order to develop a technique to explore individual and traditional dramatic ideas and processes. This class is designed for students majoring in theatre and those students interested in the Humanities.
DRAM 109 Theatre and Social Issues
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
- Advisory
- ENGL C1000 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course is a study of the role of theatre in society within its cultural, aesthetic, economic, and political manifestations. Emphasis is placed on increasing students' understanding of politics in theatrical representation and comprehension of theatre as a tool for social change. Topics include the nature and function of theatrical representation, moving to historical and contemporary issues in American and World cultures. This class is designed for students majoring in theatre and those students interested in the Humanities and/or social and theoretical issues.
DRAM 111 Chicana/o Theatre
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
- Advisory
- ENGL C1000 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course is a survey of Chicana/o drama in the United States and Mexico from 1975 to the present. Emphasis is placed on the historical roots, techniques, styles, and dramatic literature. It explores new trends, influences, and developments in playwriting, directing, and performance styles. This course examines issues facing the Mexican-American community through dramatic forms, focusing on the advent of professionally-oriented Chicana/o theatre, examining significant plays, playwrights, and the theatre groups that produced those plays. This course is designed for Chicana/o Studies majors, Dramatic Arts majors, and anyone interested in literature or theatre.
DRAM 112 Introduction to Script Analysis
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
- Advisory
- ENGL C1000 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course is intended to introduce Dramatic Arts majors, and other interested students, to the fundamental techniques of script analysis. Focus is on the students' ability to interpret and describe concepts and ideas as related to historical and contemporary dramatic literature. The course emphasizes the development of the techniques of script analysis specific its use in acting, directing, and design, as well as critical and social analysis.
DRAM 114A Digital Storytelling I
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32 - 36 hours lecture/48-54 hours lab
This course is an introduction to the critical and current integration of the digital video medium into the dramatic arts to conceive, assemble, and share stories that engage audiences via the author’s unique voice. Students use tools including video editing software, camcorders, and mobile devices to create digital video-based stories. The course also focuses on creation of demo reels, streaming and projection design for live theatre, video analysis and critique, on-camera performance, shot planning, and sound capture and design. This course is designed for students majoring in dramatic arts and those interested in the creation of digital storytelling media.
DRAM 114B Digital Storytelling II
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32 - 36 hours lecture/48-54 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- DRAM 114A with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course is an intermediate exploration of the critical and current integration of the digital video medium into the dramatic arts to conceive, assemble, and share stories that engage audiences via the author’s unique voice. It focuses on on-camera performance, story development through script writing and storyboarding, and intermediate video production for the dramatic arts, including creation of demo reels and self-tape auditions, and streaming and projection design for live theatre, using tools including video editing software, camcorders, and mobile devices. It also focuses on the scheduling and execution of an entire production. This course is designed for students majoring in dramatic arts and those interested in the creation of digital storytelling media.
DRAM 118 Intermediate Playwriting
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- DRAM 108 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course examines themes, structures, and effective material that is written for the theatre at the intermediate level. Topics and exercises include the exploration of dialogue and monologue composition, exposition, autobiography, political and domestic social issues, writing for the opposite gender, and structure. Students are required to write scenes and plays that facilitate the development of a technique that is both individual and based on traditional dramaturgical ideas. Students present a folio of plays as well as critical analyses of plays and other works associated with theatre and playwriting. This course is designed for students majoring in theatre and those interested in creative writing and the humanities.
DRAM 119 Film and Television Performance
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32 - 36 hours lecture/48-54 hours lab
- Advisory
- DRAM 132 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course introduces students to the skills required for on-camera performing techniques as used in the motion picture and television industry. Students participate in the selection, rehearsal, and on-camera performance of material from television and motion picture scripts including drama, sitcoms, daytime dramas, and commercials. Emphasis is placed on cold-reading taped audition skills, improvisational and interview techniques, and the fundamental acting techniques required for on-camera performance. Legal and ethical issues in film and television performance, including the implications of social and cultural constructs, economics, technology, and equity and social justice, are explored. This course is designed for theatre, television, and film majors.
DRAM 123 Beginning Stagecraft
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32 - 36 hours lecture/48-54 hours lab
This course is a hands-on introduction to technical theatre production. Emphasis is placed on construction, painting, rigging, placement, and manipulation of stage scenery, lighting equipment, sound, projections, properties, and the organization and management of stage activity and stagecraft technology. This course is designed for theatre majors and students interested in backstage production.
DRAM 124 Makeup for the Stage
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32 - 36 hours lecture/48-54 hours lab
This course is an introductory hands-on study of the materials and techniques used in stage and production makeup design and application. Emphasis is placed on the acquisition of a lexicon pertinent to the history and use of makeup in the theater as well as on the actual application of stage makeup in the classroom and as a member of the makeup crew for a theatrical and video production. This course is intended for students majoring in drama, theatre, film, radio and television and cosmetology as well as anyone interested in makeup for the stage.
DRAM 127 Sound For Theatre
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 16 - 18 hours lecture/48-54 hours lab
This course is an introduction to the basic principles of audio production and the craft of sound design. Topics include technique, theory and procedures necessary to develop sound, music and effects integrated into theatre productions. This course is intended for the transfer student planning a major in Dramatic Arts, desiring competency in technical theatre or those interested in developing a deeper understanding of sound design.
DRAM 128 Stage Lighting Design
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course is an introduction to the principles and practice of stage and film lighting design. Emphasis is placed on the operation of basic lighting equipment, design, and digital drafting techniques. Technical preparation for other forms of production, such as outdoors, television, and movies is included. This course is intended for students majoring in Dramatic Arts or those interested in technical theatre.
DRAM 129A Beginning Scene Painting
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32 - 36 hours lecture/48-54 hours lab
This course introduces students to basic techniques and materials used in the painting of scenery for the stage. Emphasis is placed on techniques in faux painting, murals, trompe l'oeil (trick the eye), and decorative motifs for theatre. Students experiment with color mixing, base, layout, ink, lay-in detail, and the use of brushes and tools for application in theatre settings. This course is designed for drama majors, art students, and anyone interested in painting on a large scale.
DRAM 132 Beginning Acting
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32 - 36 hours lecture/48-54 hours lab
This course is a beginning level study, practice and execution of the fundamentals of acting designed to develop a foundation in basic acting technique. Emphasis is placed on the effective communication of ideas and emotions by a dramatic character to audience. Topics include staging techniques, improvisation, theater games, scenes, monologues, stage movement, and an introduction to the lexicon of acting for theater. This course is intended for students who are interested in developing basic acting techniques.
DRAM 133 Intermediate Acting
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32 - 36 hours lecture/48-54 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- DRAM 132 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course is an intermediate level study of the fundamentals of acting. Emphasis is placed on the use of scene work as a tool for sharpening the actor's skill. Students work on scenes by a variety of playwrights as they increase vocal, physical and emotional flexibility as well as their stage presence. This course is designed for students majoring in Drama and anyone interested in honing their acting skill.
DRAM 134 Beginning Voice for Actors
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course is a study of the foundations of vocal technique for actors. Emphasis is placed on breath, projection, resonators, and diction. Students apply voice technique through classical and modern monologues. This course is designed for drama majors, multilingual learners, and anyone interested in refining voice and articulation skills.
DRAM 143 Beginning Costuming
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32 - 36 hours lecture/48-54 hours lab
This lecture and laboratory course emphasizes student involvement in the techniques and methodology of costume construction. Topics include practical experience in sewing, fabrics and their modification, costume craft techniques such as millinery, masks, footwear and accessories, and service on costume crews. Students explore costume production procedures with regards to time, budgets, and labor. This course is designed for students majoring in performance and technical theatre or anyone interested in clothing and fashion.
DRAM 150 Cinema as Art and Communication I
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course is a survey of cinema as it relates to historical, aesthetic and critical influences on American society. Emphasis is placed on the development of the feature film from its inception through the 1960's. Topics include silent film, the introduction of sound, the aesthetics of black and white film, the technology of color, the birth of animated film, the influence of the director, the role of technology and the resulting influence on an audience. Students are also introduced to the film movements of the modern era, including Italian Neo-Realism, German Expressionism and Soviet Montage. This course is designed for students interested in a general survey of cinema.
DRAM 151 Cinema as Art and Communication II
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course provides a survey of American cinema as it relates to cultural, aesthetic and critical influences on American society. The focus of the course is the development of the feature film from the 1970's through the present. The course traces and explains the impact of film movements of the modern era, the evolution of national cinemas, the innovations in animation and special effects, contemporary experimental cinema, the role of the home movie and video, as well as the influence of the director, the role of technology and the resulting influence on an audience. This course is intended for all students interested in a general survey of American cinema.
DRAM 165 Introduction to Stage Movement
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course is an introduction to basic techniques of movement for the stage. Emphasis is placed on the actor's body as an expressive instrument. Students acquire flexibility, strength, and physical repertoire of stage movement. This course is designed for drama and dance majors and anyone interested in honing stage movement skills.
DRAM 200A Fundamentals of Performance and Production III
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 192-216 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- DRAM 100B with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent and DRAM 100A with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Corequisite
- DRAM 204A
This hands-on course focuses on intermediate acting skills, costume design and construction, and theatrical production. Students participate in all aspects of theatrical production through a college theatre company. This course is designed for second-year dramatic arts majors.
DRAM 200B Fundamentals of Performance and Production IV
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 192-216 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- DRAM 100A with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent and DRAM 100B with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Corequisite
- DRAM 204B
This hands-on course focuses on intermediate acting skills, theatrical management, and theatrical production. Students participate in all aspects of theatrical production through a college theatre company. This course is designed for second-year dramatic arts majors.
DRAM 204A Theatre Company Performance III
- Units
- 1-2
- Hours
- 48-108 hours lab
- Corequisite
- DRAM 200A
This course is the third level of the performance process of a college theatre company production. Emphasis is placed on the ability to model the artistic process within the practice of theatrical performance. This course is intended for students majoring in drama. Unit value for this course is determined by the given role.
DRAM 204B Theatre Company Performance IV
- Units
- 1-2
- Hours
- 48-108 hours lab
- Corequisite
- DRAM 200B
This course is the fourth level of the performance process of a college theatre company production. Emphasis is placed on the ability to lead the artistic process within the practice of theatrical performance. This course is intended for students majoring in drama. Unit value for this course is determined by the given role.
DRAM 205 The American Musical on Stage and Screen
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
- Advisory
- ENGL C1000 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course is a survey of the American musical on stage and film with an emphasis on the evolution of this unique American art form. Students explore the role of social, political, and demographic changes on Musical Theatre from late-nineteenth century stage productions to recent live, filmed, and digital manifestations. This class is designed for Dramatic Arts majors, Film majors, and anyone with an interest in musical theatre.
DRAM 235 Literature to Life-A Scene Study Course
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 96-108 hours lab
- Advisory
- DRAM 132 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This performance-based course introduces students to interpreting and staging dramatic literature. It also examines and investigates how dramatic texts influence and are influenced by the time period and/or cultural context in which they were written, and through performance choices, relate its influence on contemporary American culture and society. Scene work may be selected in coordination with curriculum in other disciplines. Students rehearse the scenes in the first half of the semester and perform the scenes for both on-campus classes and high schools in the second half of the semester. This course is intended for drama majors and all students who have had some acting experience.
DRAM 244A Theatre Workshop I
- Units
- 1-2
- Hours
- 48-108 hours lab
- Advisory
- ENGL C1000 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This introductory class is designed for the rehearsal and performance of original, established, touring, or devised works. Aspects of theatre covered including acting, playwriting, and production support. This course is intended for introductory drama majors and all students interested in theatre arts.
DRAM 244B Theatre Workshop II
- Units
- 1-2
- Hours
- 48-108 hours lab
- Advisory
- DRAM 244A with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This class is designed for the intermediate level of rehearsal and performance of original, established, touring, or devised works. Various aspects of theatre are covered including acting, playwriting, directing, design, and production support. This course is intended for intermediate drama majors and all students interested in theatre arts.
DRAM 244C Theatre Workshop III
- Units
- 1-2
- Hours
- 48-108 hours lab
- Advisory
- DRAM 244B with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This class is designed for the intermediate-advanced level of rehearsal and performance of original, established, touring, or devised works. All aspects of theatre are covered including acting, directing, playwriting, design, and production support. This course is intended for intermediate-advanced drama majors and all students interested in theatre arts.
DRAM 244D Theatre Workshop IV
- Units
- 1-2
- Hours
- 48-108 hours lab
- Advisory
- DRAM 244C with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This class is designed for the advanced level of rehearsal and performance of original, established, touring, or devised works. All aspects of theatre are covered including acting, directing, playwriting, design, and production support. This course is intended for advanced drama majors and all students interested in theatre arts.
DRAM 268 Experimental Theatre
- Units
- 1-3
- Hours
- 48-162 hours lab
- Advisory
- DRAM 132 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course focuses on rehearsal, performance and production for experimental theatre. Emphasis is placed on the presentation of theatre styles not usually included in Dramatic Arts programs, such as staged readings, children's theatre, touring theatre, new works, avante garde, performance studies and cross-curriculum projects. Students may participate in a variety of roles, including playwriting, directing, acting, scenic design, sound design, lighting design, costume design, running crews and marketing. This course is intended for drama majors and anyone with minimal theatre experience.
DRAM 290 Independent Study
- Units
- 1-3
- Hours
- 48-162 hours other
Advanced special work in dramatic arts: acting, design, lighting, film, business, makeup, costumes, direction or play production.