The Reality of a Theater Course: Beyond the Myths
When it comes to college majors, the perception of ease can often differ greatly from the reality. One stark difference between majors like physics and theater is particularly noteworthy. My best friend and I had a discussion about this topic during our college years. She was pursuing a physics degree, while I was a theater major. The common view among her peers was that theater was the easier major, requiring little more than a performance here and there. However, it wasn't until she saw the level of commitment and workload that I was dealing with that she changed her mind.
A Different Perspective on Ease
Many assume that theater courses are easier because they don't involve nightly problem sets or heavy problem-solving tasks, which are staples in science and mathematics courses. Indeed, theater courses, particularly those centered around theory and history, don't typically assign large, nightly problem sets. However, the workload in theater courses can be just as demanding in different ways, particularly with the presence of larger projects and extensive reading, depending on the specific course.
The Extravagance of Reading Assignments
One of the theater courses I took in my history module presented an overwhelming amount of reading. In a single semester, we were tasked with reading not one, but five plays, each consisting of five acts. That’s a significant amount of material to digest and analyze, especially within the strict timeframe of a semester. This extensive reading, while not as mathematically rigorous, is no less challenging and time-consuming, especially when considerations of the historical and cultural context come into play.
Lecture Intensive Classes and More Accessible Formats
On the other hand, some theater courses, such as those focused on fashion, adopt a lecture-based approach. While this format may be perceived as easier due to the lack of nightly assignments, it demands a different kind of engagement, one that requires active listening, note-taking, and often, active participation during discussions. The content can still be quite complex, dealing with the history of costumes, different fashion styles, and their relevance to the performing arts.
The Hidden Work in Technical Theater Classes
Technical theater classes also present a different challenge. These courses are often hands-on and require students to work on a wide range of projects throughout the semester. For instance, I had to complete multiple projects involving set design, lighting, and sound engineering. Each project had its own set of deadlines and requirements, often requiring additional time outside of regular class hours. This type of class is no less demanding, as it requires a high degree of technical proficiency and often collaboration with peers and faculty.
Acting Classes: More than Just Performances
The acting classes I took also had their own set of challenges. While they involved performances, they also required significant preparation, including rehearsals, scripts memorization, and character development. Outside of class, actors had to spend time practicing lines, warming up, and working on their craft. The work done during these out-of-class hours was essential for the development of both skills and performances.
Conclusion: The Nuance of Ease in Theater Courses
In conclusion, while some might view theater as an 'easy' major due to the lack of nightly problem sets, this perception is misleading. Theater courses have a different kind of workload and challenges, which can be just as demanding as courses in natural sciences or mathematics. The extensive reading, lecture-based classes, technical projects, and acting work all contribute to a robust and multifaceted educational experience. So rather than thinking of theater as 'easy' or 'hard', it's better to consider it in terms of its unique set of 'busy work' or demanding projects.
Understanding these nuances is crucial for students and potential majors, ensuring that they make informed decisions about their academic paths.