Monterey Peninsula College offers a robust theatre arts program for students interested in developing skills in the discipline. Most classes are fully transferable to UC/CSUs and can be used to fulfill a variety of General Education requirements in addition to providing a solid foundation for students interested in majoring in Theatre Arts and transferring to a university to complete a 4-year degree.

MPC's Spring 2024 Theatre Arts non-restricted courses include:

*Special production/rehearsal/performance classes (THEA 35A, THEA 60C, and THEA 440) are offered in conjunction with productions but are restricted to participants.  For more information on auditions for productions planned for Spring 2023 please contact the Creative Arts department (831) 646-4200 for details.  2 productions have been planned for this term.

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Additional information on Spring 2023 non-restricted classes

THEA 1 - Introduction to Theatre

This course focuses on the relationship of theatre to various cultures throughout history, and introduces students to elements of the production process, including playwriting, acting, directing, design, and criticism. Students survey different periods, styles, and genres of theatre through play reading, discussion, films, and viewing and critiquing live theatre, including required attendance at theatre productions. Field trips may be required. Portions of instruction may be offered online; may also be offered fully online.

THEA 4 - Intercultural Drama

Stage scripts, videos and films of stage productions that portray intercultural relations are read and/or viewed. Students analyze cultural differences and similarities through the dramatic arts. American intercultural relations are emphasized. Portions of instruction may be offered online; may also be offered fully online.

THEA 5 - Film Appreciation

This course is an examination of the nature of motion pictures as a unique and composite art. Students observe screening and analysis of films selected on the basis of direction, theme, or style. The survey is international in scope, but with more thorough treatment given to one director. The focus of the course may be on the western culture movie, the movie musical, the horror film, or the so-called 'underground' or 'independent' cinema.

THEA 7A -Writing for Theatre I

This practical course explores the collaborative aspects and nature of playwriting. It features writing exercises, class original play readings, and peer discussions through the digital medium. Field trips may be required. Portions of instruction may be offered online; may also be offered fully online.

THEA 10 - History of Film: 1950s to Present

This course is a historical and critical survey of film as an art form. It emphasizes the evolution of artistic and technical facets of production in features, documentaries, and experimental films. The focus is on films from the 1950s to present. Field trips may be required. Portions of instruction may be offered online; may also be offered fully online.

THEA 14 - History of Film: 1950s to Present
This is a performance-oriented course integrating acting and singing skills through the creation of a unified character. It is both an introduction for students with little or no previous musical theatre experience and a continuing performance forum for those with previous training. Primary emphasis is placed on the three core areas of musical theatre performance: acting, singing, and movement. Field trips may be required.

THEA 15B - Acting II
This course follows THEA 15A (Acting I). It continues the exploration of theories and techniques used in preparation for the interpretation of drama through acting. Emphasis is placed on deepening the understanding of the acting process through character analysis, monologues, and scenes. Portions of instruction may be offered online; may also be offered fully online.