drama 103 uw

It looks like you're asking about DRAMA 103 at the University of Washington (UW). Here is a breakdown of what that course typically covers, along with common experiences and tips for students. What is DRAMA 103? The full title is usually DRAMA 103: Introduction to Theatre. It is a large, lecture-style "VLPA" course (Visual, Literary, and Performing Arts), meaning it fulfills a general education requirement for many majors. The core question of the course is: "What is Theatre?" The course approaches this from three main angles: As an Art Form: You'll learn the fundamental elements of a theatrical event: the performer, the audience, the space, the text, and the design. As a Collaborative Process: You'll be introduced to the roles of the people who make theatre happen (playwright, director, actor, designer, stage manager) and how they work together. As a Cultural Mirror: You'll explore how theatre reflects, critiques, and shapes the society and time period in which it is created. Expect discussions on race, gender, class, and politics through the lens of dramatic texts. What to Expect Lectures: The class meets two to three times a week in a large lecture hall (e.g., Kane Hall). The professor will lecture, show video clips of performances, and facilitate some discussion. Readings: The course load is significant. You will read 5-7 full-length plays over the quarter. Expect classic (Sophocles, Shakespeare, Ibsen) and contemporary (Suzan-Lori Parks, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Caryl Churchill) works. Assignments: The workload is typical for a 5-credit VLPA. - Exams (Midterm & Final): Usually multiple-choice and short answer, testing your knowledge of the plays, key theatrical terms, and concepts from lecture. You will likely need to write a few short essays during the exam. - "Live" Viewing Response: You are usually required to attend two live theatre productions (one at the UW School of Drama, one at a local professional theatre like Seattle Rep, ACT, or Intiman). You then write a short, analytical paper on each, connecting the production to concepts from class. They know that "live" is in quotes because some quarters may offer streaming alternatives. - Play Analysis Paper: You may be asked to write one longer paper analyzing a play through a specific lens (e.g., dramatic structure, character analysis, or cultural context). - Discussion Sections: You will have a weekly 50-minute quiz section led by a Teaching Assistant (TA). Attendance and participation are mandatory. This is where you will dig deeper into the readings and prepare for exams. Why Students Take It It fulfills a "VLPA" or "Arts & Humanities" requirement. It is often taught by excellent, engaging professors who are passionate about the subject. It's considered one of the more interesting and less dry ways to get your required arts credit. You get to see plays! It provides a solid foundation for anyone interested in a Drama major or minor. Common Challenges & Tips for Success Do the Reading on Time: The plays are your primary "textbook." You cannot do well on the exams by reading summaries online. The details matter. - Tip: Read the play before the lecture on it. You'll get much more out of the lecture. The Live Shows are Mandatory: This is non-negotiable. Plan your schedule around these two dates. - Tip: Buy your tickets early (UW shows sell out, and professional shows can too). Sit close enough to see the actors' faces. Go to Office Hours: If you want an A, go see your TA at least once to discuss your paper outline before writing it. Keep Up with Terminology: Use flashcards for terms like "proscenium," "the fourth wall," "dramatic irony," "catharsis," "protagonist," "antagonist," "climax," "denouement," "stage left," "upstage," etc. These will 100% be on the exams. Engage in Discussion: Your TA wants to hear your opinion. Don't just say "I liked it." Say why based on a specific element from the production or text. A Sample DRAMA 103 Syllabus (Illustrative) Week 1-2: What is Theatre? Aristotle's Poetics and the elements of drama. Read: Oedipus Rex. Week 3-4: The Playwright & Dramatic Structure. Read: A Doll's House or Death of a Salesman. Week 5: MIDTERM. The Director & The Actor. Week 6-7: The Designers (Scenery, Costume, Lighting, Sound). Read: A modern play (e.g., Topdog/Underdog by Suzan-Lori Parks or The Wolves by Sarah DeLappe). Week 8-9: Theatre & Society. Read: Angels in America or Hamilton. Week 10: The Audience & The Future of Theatre. Finals Week: FINAL EXAM. DUE: Second Live Performance Paper. In short: DRAMA 103 is a fun, manageable, and highly educational intro course. It's a great way to get your arts credit while seeing some excellent theatre in Seattle. The key is to read the plays and go to the shows! Good luck