Drama

& nbsp; Performance Analysis: Critical Contexts in Drama& nbsp;facilitates the development of students& rsquo; analytical skills and evaluative techniques, both of which are necessary for future study and employment. The module is research based and aims to cultivate skills of evaluation and interpretation for drama, theatre and performance in a variety of contexts. The module prepares students for progression to & #39;The Professional Project& #39; at level 6. & nbsp; In Drama, the module content engages with a number of key critical theories relevant to the analysis of drama, performance and performance making. These might include theories of creativity and crafting, politics and performance, identity theories and theories relating to the body and performance. Studying these will provide a theoretical basis for students to develop their independent study work at level 6, and the module also offers an introduction to planning, implementing and evaluating an extended project in Drama. & nbsp; In the first half of the semester& nbsp;you will study a range of critical theory and critical approaches to the study of drama and performance. In the latter half of the semester students select an area of specialism for the Level 6 Professional Projects module. Students then prepare a research proposal, identifying research questions and conduct a literature survey applicable to their chosen area of specialism, underpinned by an appropriate range of critical theory studied during the first half of the module.

In this module students will participate in a devised performance in a public venue. This may be as a performer; a lighting, set, sound or costume designer; a member of a stage management team or a member of a publicity and administration team. Students may choose from three options: text based realism/naturalism, non-text based physical theatre or popular performance. Students will be given the opportunity to apply skills developed in the modules: Practical approaches: performance skills (level 4) and Practical approaches : production skills (level5)

In this module students will build on the skills developed in Scenography: Visualising the Text and apply their knowledge to theatre design for non-theatre venues. In addition to, and along side this, students will learn the functions of, and operating practices of stage management.  Students will also be introduced to the latest digital technology used in design and stage management. 

During this module you will engage in critical analysis of the craft of playwriting through studying a range of plays, playwrights and crafting manuals. You will have the opportunity to develop your own individual creative voice through practice in addition to offering critical interpretations of playtexts and the work of your peers.

This module explores the works of contemporary performance practitioners, examining their practice in the context of specific aesthetic movements and critical theory. It explores the correspondence between practitioners, artistic movements, and key theatre movements. The module aims to engage you in learning activities to support your understanding and application of performance-related theories and their impact on performance practices. You will study the work of selected theatre and performance practitioners together with critical thinking related to concepts such as the Grotesque, Postmodernism, Gender, Sexuality and Carnival, and investigate key elements in the creation of contemporary theatre work. Assessment includes practical and written tasks.

During this module you will take responsibility for all aspects of the production and performance process to create a festival of new work for a 'non-theatre' venue. The performances will be made in response to the study of a particular theatre movement.

The Professional Project is the culmination of your undergraduate degree course which will enable you to work independently in an area that excites and interests you. The Professional Project enables you to engage with a substantial programme of independent study which allows you to define and explore in some depth a topic relating to your course or intended future employment. You will also develop advanced skills in managing an extended project. The Professional Project provides experience of critically evaluating and reflecting upon the particular methodologies of your subject area. The project may include practical elements, performed on your own or as part of a group.

This module will focus on preparing you for a public performance of a tutor directed contemporary playtext. You will be able to develop your performance skills and critical thinking as an actor and examine your ability to take direction. The module will prepare you for the kind of work that many of our graduates go on to do.

This module explores the interdisciplinary nature of live art, installation art, immersive theatre and multi-media performance. Using the notion of Liveness and exploring multi-mediality and inter-mediality in theory and practice this module interrogates the blurring of the boundaries between these forms and their creation, performance and application. The module will also consider the impact of these art forms on the changing nature of audience/spectator reception. It will examine the work of practitioners such as Orlan, Abramovic,Tracy Emin, Michael Landy, Forkbeard Fantasy and Bertolt Brecht. The practical elements of the module will approach these art forms as a scenographic medium and as a performance tool.