Module: ACT5101-20 Acting New Dramaturgies

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Mary Steadman

Module Tutor Contact Details: m.steadman@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module builds on the foundations developed in Composition and Actor-Creator at levels 4 and 5, to explore approaches to contemporary theatre practice that interrogate and test the boundaries of theatrical convention and form. Through practical experimentation the module explores the elements and ideas that constitute theatre and performance beyond ‘representation’, and the challenges that this poses for the role and function of the actor-creator.

The module aims are:

• To develop your knowledge and understanding of contemporary avant-garde practices

• To enable you to apply vocal and physical approaches and practices that challenge the role of the actor beyond ‘representation’

• To extend your understanding of the relationship between contemporary acting practices and performance theory

2.Outline syllabus

The module encourages you to explore your role as creative artists by addressing the processes, tools, and practice of making theatre that draw leading practitioners associated with contemporary and experimental forms (Wooster Group, Robert Wilson, Forced Entertainment, Goat Island, Elevator Repair Service Theater, Reckless Sleepers) and contemporary theoretical discourses that have informed the term ‘post dramatic’ theatre, such as ‘Theatre and Cognition’. The module looks at how dramatic representation and the unification of character, plot, and dialogue are called into question, drawing attention to the performance of performing. Improvisational processes, rehearsal and performance develop a collaborative approach to making, underpinned by knowledge of the avant-garde and experimental practices of the twentieth and twenty-first century.

3.Teaching and learning activities

This module uses a combination of tutor-led workshops, student-led practice, lectures, and research assignments. Formative assessment involves sharing developments in your chosen area of inquiry. The summative assessment involves research, preparing a small group practical presentation of your research and evaluating the collaborative process that led to the presentation.

It is important to keep a journal or blog recording your development and to use this to evidence any required research along with annotated texts, reflections on video resources and live performances etc.

The Bath Spa VLE, Minerva, provides information to help develop an appreciation of the broader technical and artistic aspects, which underpin this subject area, and develop skills in independent learning.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Coursework

• Description: Formal Presentation (1 piece)

• % Weighting: 80%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Coursework

• Description: Evaluation (1,000 words)

• % Weighting: 20%