Module: DRA5101-20 Applied Theatre

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Dr Kerrie Reading

Module Tutor Contact Details: k.reading2@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module examines drama as a vehicle for social intervention and cultural expression, through practices of making visible voices, identities and stories that are invisible or marginalised within society. It will involve both critical consideration of major political and social philosophies that have informed Applied Theatre practices and the examination of practical case studies and facilitation techniques.

The module aims to:

• introduce you to a range of Applied Theatre practices, theories, and practitioners through lectures, workshops, and visiting artists

• enable you to explore the specific ideas and techniques behind key Applied Theatre theories and practices

• enable you to conduct relevant case study evaluations and to create and facilitate an Applied Theatre workshop in the community

2. Outline syllabus:

The module provides an overview of the Applied Theatre landscape, its core pedagogies and Theatre of the Oppressed theory. It examines the ways in which Applied Theatre practices have the potential to intercede in and subvert dominant societal narratives about marginalised groups. The module’s focus on Applied Theatre case studies incorporates workshops on techniques related to these case studies and also incorporates visits from guest artists. It gives you the opportunity to conduct a case study evaluation of your own; design, rehearse, and facilitate a workshop within the community; and reflect on and evaluate your own practice. The module ends with peer, group, and individual tutorial sessions.

3. Teaching and learning activities:

The module is taught through a series of practical workshops and lectures which are sometimes led by visiting artists and practitioners.

Students will be given the opportunity to complete formative tasks before presenting their summative work for assessment.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Written Work - Case Study 2000 words

• % Weighting: 40%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Applied Theatre Workshop

• % Weighting: 60%