Module: DRA4001-20 Investigating Theatre and Performance

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Dr Laura Purcell-Gates

Module Tutor Contact Details: L.Purcell-Gates@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

The module aims to:

introduce you to some key debates in theatre and performance criticism and practice;

provide you with critical frameworks that allow you to interrogate relevant historical, social, political and artistic issues;

develop your awareness of the contested and shifting roles of theatre and performance in society

2. Outline syllabus:

This module provides a contextual and theoretical framework for studying theatre and performance. It gives you the contextual knowledge and theories to be able to critically examine the work of a range of influential playwrights, practitioners and performers from different periods and geographical locations. In any given year, the module will survey a series of major theatrical and performance events, ideas and/or figures and related, historical, social, political and artistic debates. Students will be invited to reflect on topics such as theatrical and dramatic representation, adaptation, performativity, and how issues such as class, race and/or gender may be read through theatre and performance.

3. Teaching and learning activities:

Lectures

Seminars

Research

Presentations

Practical work

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Essay (1600 words)

• % Weighting: 40%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Practical Work

• % Weighting: 60%