DEPARTMENT OF
Visual & Performing Arts
About the Program
The Department of Drama at LSC-University Park is committed to student success
in the classroom and in the theatre. Students are trained to the highest standards
and practices as theatre practitioners. In class, students will learn the tools and
methods for making dynamic and relevant theatre that has an impact on the
modern audience. In production, students are set to collaborate together
to make quality theatre to fulfill their artistic needs. We believe that students
deserve a chance to have their voices heard and their visions seen. This is why
students will often be on stage, designing or stage managing in their first year.
LSC-University Park works to innovate and be inclusive, creating work that of
which everyone involved can be proud of. We offer a robust course selection in
performance and technical theatre with a new two-year Field of Study, allowing
students to graduate with an emphasis in theatre and transfer to any four-year
state Bachelor of Arts program. Our students are dedicated theatre practitioners
and collaborators who take chances and expand the limits of their creativity.
Upon completion of training at LSC-University Park, students have successfully
transferred to programs of their choosing throughout Texas.
Faculty
William Grayson, MFA
Professor of Drama
Director of Theatre
281.290.2956
[email protected]
Office: B12.108
William Grayson, Director of Theatre at LSC-Univer-
sity Park, is a native of Dallas, Texas. He earned a
bachelor’s degree in Theatre Performance from West
Texas A&M University, and his master’s degree in
Acting from the University of Arkansas. After earn-
ing his master’s degree in Fine Arts, he cofounded
The Step 1 Theatre Company in Arkansas, where
he brought avant-garde and new works to the area
before transplanting the company to New York City.
There, he worked primarily as a writer, producer
and director, with works featured in the New York
International Fringe Festival, the Producer’s Club, and
at Theatre ROW as part of the United Solo Artists
One-Person Show Festival. He is a University
Interscholastic League adjudicator and active member
of the Texas Educational Theatre Association.
Production Courses
DRAM 1310, DRAMH – Theatre Appreciation*
This course provides a survey of theatre, including its history, dramatic works, stage
techniques, production procedures, and relation to other art forms. Participation in
productions may be required.
Prerequisite: College Level Readiness in Reading and Writing
DRAM 1120, 1121, 2120, 2121 – Theatre Practicum
This course is open to all students interested in theatrical production and is recommended
for students participating in productions. Credit is earned for technical work (costuming,
lighting, set construction, publicity and makeup), performance work, or other participation
as designated by faculty. It may be taken for four credit hours maximum.
Prerequisite: College Level Readiness in Reading and Writing
DRAM 1330 – Stagecraft I
Stagecraft I covers the study and application of the methods and components of theatrical
production which may include one or more of the following: theatre facilities, scenery
construction and painting, properties, lighting, costume, makeup, sound, and theatrical
management.
Prerequisite: College Level Readiness in Reading and Writing
DRAM 2366 – Film Appreciation*
Students will survey and analyze cinema including history, film techniques, production
procedures, selected motion pictures and cinema’s impact on and reflection of society.
Prerequisite: College Level Readiness in Reading and Writing
*Counts toward the Creative Arts core requirements for an AA/AS.
Performance Courses
DRAM 1351 – Acting I
Acting I is an introduction to the fundamental principles and tools of acting as used
in auditions, rehearsals, and performances. This may include ensemble performing,
character and script analysis, and basic theatre terminology. This exploration will
emphasize the development of the actor’s instruments: voice, body and imagination.
Prerequisite: College Level Readiness in Reading and Writing
DRAM 1352 – Acting II
Students will receive further training within the basic principles and tools of acting,
including an emphasis on critical analysis of oneself and others. The tools include
ensemble performing, character and script analysis, and basic theatre terminology.
This will continue the exploration of the development of the actor’s instruments: voice,
body and imagination.
Prerequisite: College Level Readiness in Reading and Writing
DRAM 1322 – Stage Movement
This course focuses on basic postural alignments and movement with an emphasis on
body awareness and rhythm.
Prerequisite: College Level Readiness in Reading and Writing
DRAM 2336 – Voice for the Theatre
This course covers the basic principles of voice production and development,
including diction as it applies to the interpretation of selected literature. Intensive
practical application through classroom exercises and special projects is required.
Prerequisite: College Level Readiness in Reading and Writing
Location and Facilities
Black Box Theatre
The Black Box Theatre, located in B12.135, is a flexible space that offers an
intimate setting for theatrical productions, musical performances and art exhibits.
Acting Studio
The Visual & Performing Arts Department Acting Studio is a multi-functional space
used for theatrical voice and movement training, scene work, rehearsals and yoga.
Located in the Visual & Performing Arts Suite, B12.112.
Coming Soon...
LSC-University Park is excited to announce the expansion of our college and
the Visual & Performing Arts Department with The Visual & Performing Arts
Center, a new instructional building that will soon be under construction. We
have experienced extensive growth in both the performing and visual arts
programs and we strive to meet the demands of a flourishing student body.
2020 - 2021 Drama Events
For more information on Black Box Theatre events, visit LoneStar.edu/UP-Events
or call our Visual & Performing Arts Suite at 281.290.2742.
General Campus Hours
Monday - Friday
7.a.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Saturday
7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday
Noon - 7 p.m.