Module: CWR5105-20 Writing For Theatre

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: tbc

Module Tutor Contact Details: tbc

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module builds on general scriptwriting skills you learned at level 4 and introduces you to the fundamentals of writing for theatre and live performance on stage.

It combines exploring how plays are constructed with how you as a writer consider a live audience when scripting your own play for the stage.

In this module you will explore a variety of approaches to successful theatre writing and then take that learning forward to shaping, drafting and completing your own short theatre script.

Throughout the process you will reflect critically and receive feedback on your work in order to successfully improve and revise your script.

2. Outline syllabus:

The first half of the semester will concentrate on exploring the discipline of writing for theatre through discussion and the analysis of live performance and a variety of plays. Your tutor will make suggestions for a play(s) that you should see to help inform the development of your own work. You will begin working on ideas for your own play.

The second half of the semester is spent on developing your play, workshopping it in class through readings with your tutor group. You will revise and adapt your work through a process of redrafting, incorporating critical feedback from your tutor (in workshops and 1:1 tutorials) and peers.

Creative work: you will produce a 20-minute (15-page) short-form theatre script for a play, where the entire story is performed in 20 minutes on stage.

Critical reflection: you will reflect on what you have learned and how it has affected your practice as a writer. What new skills have you developed, what challenges did you face, what other skills or approaches would you like to develop further?

3. Teaching and learning activities:

Lectures, seminars, workshops. Tutor and peer feedback.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Script for a 20-minute performance (approximately 15 pages, equivalent to 4000 words)

• % Weighting: 80%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Critical reflection (1000 words)

• % Weighting: 20%