Module: DAN5003-20 Performance in Context 2

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Sarah Alexander

Module Tutor Contact Details: s.alexander@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module provides a creative, collaborative environment in which to develop your performance making abilities. The module is concerned with the exploration of your body as a physical and thinking instrument and is underpinned by your continuous technical training.

Your physical understanding will be tested through the exploration of different performance contexts, and you will be encouraged to explore the potentiality of the body as an expressive tool. Practical investigations will encourage you to create and present substantial performance work that engages a range of integrated creative elements. Through collaboration with others, you will be asked to take the risk of entering new artistic ground in order to devise and perform original work.

2. Outline syllabus:

The module focus resides in the shifting towards more complex and challenging performance contexts, thus inviting you to work in different spaces and to engage with a range of integrated elements. Building on your learning from Body in Performance 3, you will focus on the creative performing body in non-traditional performance environments. Genres of immersive, promenade, site-specific and interdisciplinary performance will be explored from a performative and choreographic perspective. You will develop your understanding of the performer in context through an appreciation of the importance of physical presence and embodiment of performance material. You will continue to build on your technical understanding of codified technique through progressive, technical skills training.

The study of professional performance work will develop your awareness of current contemporary work and further your understanding of the interplay between theory and practice.

3. Teaching and learning activities:

The module is taught through regular practical sessions, creative workshops, seminars, rehearsals and tutorials. You will have regular feedback during technique classes to help develop your individual reflection and evaluation. Moderated presentation classes will be another valuable way for you to receive feedback on your progress. Self directed study will be encouraged as part of your learning experience along with the filming of your practice to help you self-evaluate and improve.

Creative elements of the module will be supported by continuous reviews and feedback. You will also be required to submit a project proposal, reflecting standard professional practice. There will be recommended readings and viewings, and you will be expected to engage in self-directed research, practical rehearsals and peer critique.

Tutorial support will be offered for monitoring your progress across all areas of the module.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: EX (In Class)

• Description: Practical Exam (equivalent of 2000 words)

• % Weighting: 40%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Practical Performance (equivalent of 3000 words)

• % Weighting: 60%