Acting I


Course Title: TPP2100 – Acting I

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisites: None (or instructor approval, based on your program)

Course Description:

TPP2100 introduces students to the fundamental principles of acting. Through physical, vocal, and imaginative exercises, students will explore the actor's tools, develop ensemble awareness, and build foundational skills in character development, scene work, and truthful performance. The course emphasizes disciplined practice, observation, and reflection, preparing students for more advanced study in acting and performance.


Alignment Statement:

This course is designed to align with NAST guidelines standards by providing foundational training in performance, including:

  • Basic understanding of acting techniques and methods (VIII.D.2)
  • Development of physical and vocal skills (VIII.D.1)
  • Foundational knowledge of improvisation, objectives, tactics, and scene analysis (VIII.D.3)
  • Introduction to the collaborative nature of theatre-making (VIII.D.4)


Course Objectives:

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate basic physical and vocal awareness for performance.
  2. Apply the principles of objective, obstacle, and action to scene work.
  3. Perform short monologues and scenes with focus, authenticity, and clarity.
  4. Collaborate effectively within ensemble settings.
  5. Analyze scripts for given circumstances and character motivation.
  6. Critically reflect on their own and others’ work using performance vocabulary.


Course Content / Weekly Outline:

  • Week 1: Introduction to Acting – The Actor’s Instrument
  • Week 2: Body Awareness & Movement Fundamentals
  • Week 3: Voice & Breath Work
  • Week 4: Improvisation and Play
  • Week 5: Objectives, Tactics, and Obstacles
  • Week 6: Given Circumstances and Character Background
  • Week 7: Partner Exercises and Ensemble Building
  • Week 8: Monologue Exploration
  • Week 9: Scene Selection and Preparation
  • Week 10: Blocking, Rehearsal Techniques
  • Week 11: Emotional Preparation and Personalization
  • Week 12: Character Development and Transformation
  • Week 13: Scene Work – Feedback and Coaching
  • Week 14: Final Scene Rehearsals
  • Week 15: Final Performance Showcase & Self-Assessment


Required Materials:

  • Comfortable rehearsal clothing
  • Notebook/journal for reflections and notes
  • Selected scenes and monologues (provided or approved by instructor)


Evaluation & Grading:

  • Participation and Professionalism – 20%
  • Journal Entries and Reflections – 15%
  • Monologue Performance – 15%
  • Scene Performance – 25%
  • Quizzes/Script Analysis – 10%
  • Final Performance and Self-Assessment – 15%


Instructional Methods:

  • In-class exercises
  • Group rehearsals
  • Faculty coaching
  • Peer feedback
  • Assigned readings and script work
  • Live or recorded performance observation