Dr Paul JohnsonTel: +44 (0)1902 322807 Email: paul.johnson@wlv.ac.uk
Dr Vicki ThomsTel: +44 (0)1902 323289 Email: vickithoms@wlv.ac.uk
The research cluster, Creative Processes in the Performing Arts, pursues creative inquiry and critical analysis at the intersection of theory and performance practice.
In doing so it contributes to the research activities and outputs of the Centre for Art, Design, Research and Experimentation (CADRE) which furthers the interests of arts disciplines and their relationship to society through the development and application of creative knowledge.
The performing arts research cluster comprises three subject areas – music, dance and drama – within the School of Sport, Performing Arts and Leisure.
Across these disciplines research focuses on performance as it relates to: analysis; the body, identity and culture; contemporary practice; experimental theatre; new technologies; pedagogic practices; politics; scenography; and science and philosophy. In addition to research students in these areas, the next three years will see the cluster developing a range of research projects, collaborations and publications.
The activities of the Performing Arts research cluster – headed by Dr Paul Johnson – are developing a national and international reputation for excellence, as well as being of strategic importance to the West Midlands region. Past research in the Music Department involved collaborations with the Kreutzer Quartet, the Royal Academy of Music, and the internationally-renowned composer, Michael Finnissy (Visiting Professor in Music Composition, 2007-2010).
Work within Drama has led to internationally renowned dance theatre choreographer Jasmin Vardimon being awarded a Visiting Professorship of Performance from 2011 - 2013. The current collaboration includes a multi-disciplinary symposium exploring Jasmin Vardimon Company's piece Justitia, with book now following out of that.
Research in Dance focuses on the historical, political, cultural and practical influences of dance within the context of 20th and 21st century circum-Atlantic performance.
The work of the research cluster supports the School’s undergraduate and postgraduate curriculum with an emphasis on the continuous updating of our taught curriculum in line with research findings.
PhD Students
PhD students in other clusters with supervision from CPPA
