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Fully explore an in-depth methodology of reading, analyzing and understanding play scripts in a variety of genres and styles intended for production. Investigate techniques used to determine how to read a play for its' structure, scrutinizing the playwright's methods of creating theatre through plot, character and imagery, and understanding what scripts "mean" to the professional theatre artist and theatre-goer as distinct from other forms of literature.

• Obtain a greater comprehension and satisfaction when reading a play
• Discover the patterns common to most, if not all, dramatic storytelling 
• Practice applying an analytical framework to several model plays 
• Write both personally and academically about drama 
• Undertake individually both a creative and analytical response to a chosen play

Evaluation methods may include objective examinations (multiple-choice, short answer essay, etc.), written work (such as essays, theatrical critiques and a research paper), and/or a research project with collaborative group work. Assessments and assignments may be administered to assess the students’ understanding of structure of dramatic texts and ability to analyze the text in relationship to performance possibilities.

Ball, David. Backwards and Forwards: A Technical Manual for Reading Plays. Carbondale: Southern Illinois University Press, 1983.

Lee A. Jacobus, The Bedford Introduction to Drama, Bedford Books:St. Martin’s Press.

Individual play scripts for reading and analysis.

Thomas, James. Script Analysis for Actors, Directors, and Designers. 5th Edition, Focal Press, 2014.³