Module: ACT6001-20 Rehearsed Reading

Level: 6

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Eamon Haughian

Module Tutor Contact Details: e.haughian@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module develops potential employment opportunities through the process of a rehearsed reading of a new script. This follows an industry model of a compact rehearsal schedule and one performance. Teaching for this project is through rehearsals, performance and recording sessions, with one rehearsal session led by a director. Where practicable, the project interconnects with Creative Writing students or professional directors/new writing.

2.Outline syllabus

This module defines a rehearsed reading as a script-in-hand event. The reading might consist of a single full-length play or more usually a combination of scenes from larger scripts. The event format focuses on the exploration and presentation of character without the support of costume, setting or staging.

In this module, writers see what happens to their work then actors bring the text to life, and work out how to adapt their script. Actors work on defining character and interpretation with a minimum of production support and respond to script developments.

3.Teaching and learning activities

This module mirrors professional rehearsal, production and performance processes. The format of delivery observes the union-defined working patterns. Workloads do not exceed 48 hours in any one week and presume an overall contract of 2 weeks.

Staff expect a professional standard of work and rigorous application. Emphasis is on the writer providing a polished draft of the script and on the actors demonstrating the application of careful preparation and investigation prior to the start of and throughout rehearsals. You work autonomously, but can seek guidance if necessary. Industry professionals lead the project and draw together your initial findings.

Again, mirroring professional practice, formative assessment feedback take the form of tutor’s and director’s notes given after rehearsals and between performances.

The summative assessment is contribution to the finished performance. Be this (although not limited to this) a performance or script.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: A rehearsed reading of a text in small groups performed to an audience (1 piece)

• % Weighting: 100%