Module: DRA6000-20 Performance Research Lab

Level: 6

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Dr Laura Purcell-Gates

Module Tutor Contact Details: L.Purcell-Gates@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:   

The module aims to:

• introduce you to an advanced exploration of a specific theatre and performance theme, movement and/or practice driven by staff research and, where appropriate, linked to a university research centre or group;

• provide you with advanced critical skills that allow you to analyse and interrogate the relevant lab theme;

• develop your abilities to engage in advanced self-driven and collaborative research and performance skills

2. Outline syllabus: 

This module examines specific theatre and performance themes, movements and/or practices at an advanced level in a research lab context. In any given year, the module may focus on a particular theatre and/or performance topic, with a focus on exploring this topic through in-depth theoretical and/or practice-based research.

The topic will be linked to current staff research and, where appropriate, to a university research centre or lab, providing you with the opportunity to participate in university research practices and engage with postgraduate students.

This module builds on the critical and performance skills developed in modules at Level 5 by inviting you to engage in advanced explorations of the specific topic driven by the research questions you identify, developing your critical and performance skills as well as your ability to develop and run your own projects.

Sample lab topics include (based on current research of Drama staff):

• Docudrama in women’s refuges

• Arts and refugees

• Community-based theatre

• Hybrid bodies in puppet, object and cyborg theatre

3. Teaching and learning activities: 

Selected from below depending on needs of lab:

• Lectures

• Seminars

• Workshops

• Research

• Presentations

• Practical work

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Essay 2000 words

• % Weighting: 40

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Practical Work

• % Weighting: 60