Module: COM4002-20 Comedy Writing & Performance: Character Monologues

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Pat Welsh

Module Tutor Contact Details: P.Welsh@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

In this module you will be introduced to fundamental principles, concepts, structures and vocabulary that underpin comedy writing and performance drawing on established practice and expertise within the comedy industry.

The module aims are:

To introduce you to the foundations that underpin comedy writing and performance

To provide an understanding of the need to develop and interrelate analytical and creative skills as a comedy practitioner

Develop your practical understanding of modern comedic monologue writing and performance in the western comedy tradition

2.Outline syllabus

This module introduces you to the tools, processes and approaches to writing and performing comedy through an interrogation of classic observational comedic character monologues. A focus is placed on comedic practice in the UK and US from the 1950s to the present day.

You will be exposed to strategies that allow you to deconstruct extant performed monologues and identify the comedic structure and principles that underpin them from a writing and performance perspective. You will be encouraged to identify that which is being observed and consider its relevance from a historical and contemporary perspective.

You will guided towards the performance skills that you can utilise to develop credible comedic characterisation with an emphasis on vocal, physical attributes and motivating forces.

In the light of this enhanced understanding you will develop your own comedic viewpoint through the writing and performance of original character monologues within a studio environment. You will be encouraged to nurture and share your personal observational viewpoint and to express it through your evolving comedic practice.

3.Teaching and learning activities

Teaching and learning will be facilitated through lectures, seminars, practical workshops and regular live performance informed by research and writing tasks completed in class and in independent study time.

Formative assessment involves performing a written character monologue in a scratch showing. You will receive tutor led formative feedback. This will enable you to identify elements of good practice alongside areas that require further attention and development in the light of established principle and conventions.

Summative assessment involves performing a fully rehearsed and edited character monologue within studio conditions. Summative feedback will enable you to identify elements of good practice alongside areas that require further attention and development in the light of established principle and conventions.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Script for performance

• % Weighting: 40%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Performance of comedic monologue

• % Weighting: 60%