Module: DRA6007-20 Writing and Directing for Performance 1

Level: 6

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Silva Semerciyan

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

This module is a pre-requisite for DRA6008-20 Writing and Directing for Performance 2.

1. Brief description and aims of module:   

This module is based on an industry model of the writer / director partnership and explores contemporary dramaturgy and forms through workshops and seminars. It offers you the opportunity to write a 20 minute play script for solo performance which you will have the option to stage in Writing and Directing for Performance 2 [should you choose this module].  

The module aims to provide you with:

• An appreciation of the wider dramaturgical issues intrinsic to writing a new work and a practical understanding of the collaborative process between writer and director in the shaping of a new play or performance text. , 

• A deeper knowledge of the writers and artists who are currently shaping contemporary drama.

• The opportunity to work with a director/dramaturg during the development of your play 

• An increased understanding of industry-led approaches to developing new work and a chance to collaborate with other disciplines.  

2. Outline syllabus: 

Writing and Directing runs across two modules. The first module examines and explores contemporary dramaturgy and performance forms through workshops, seminars and lectures and leads to the writing of a script. The second module is structured to provide a platform for writer/director partnerships to develop and stage a new piece of work.

Writing and Directing for Performance 1

You will explore writing for solo performance in its multiple forms, considering the dramaturgical, practical and theoretical principles which underpin it.  In any given year, this may include a focus on one or more of the following: 

• Autobiographical performance  

• Dramatic monologue

• Comedic monologue 

You will develop your writing practice through:  

• Investigating different genres and key practitioners within the field 

• Writing exercises and script workshops 

• Practical work including improvisation and devising exercises

One to one dramaturgical support from the module tutor will be offered at intervals during the writing process towards the completion of your scripts.

3. Teaching and learning activities:

Practical workshops build on the ideas introduced in the module’s set readings and seminars and give you an opportunity to explore your writing and develop staging ideas for your short play. A sequence of smaller writing and devising tasks related to the development of your play will be set over the course of the module. These will be evaluated through practical workshops, individual tutorials, and mediated group discussion and feedback.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: 20 minute script for performance

• % Weighting: 90%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Pitch/proposal

• % Weighting: 10%