You will be introduced to a range of new and traditional performing arts techniques, experimenting with different methods and approaches. The language associated with discussing and analysing the expressive arts will be explored, and you will use a range of communication methods to demonstrate your understanding of the formal elements and concepts associated with dance and theatre arts.

Practical workshops will help you learn vocal and/or physical techniques, which will be developed throughout your course. You will be introduced to the theory that underpins your subject areas, including the psychology of communication and emotional expressionism.

You will be expected to consider your personal involvement in skills that are intrinsic to your study, requiring self-discipline and personal commitment, such as vocal training, dance techniques, background reading etc. Insight into the impact of other practitioners in the field, contemporary and historical, locally, nationally and internationally will support your development of practical skills.

A portfolio, typically comprising:
Evidence of experimentation in a range of performing arts techniques, showing innovation and suitability for purpose. The presentation and justification of one piece of your own work, with reference to other practitioners, in an appropriate format.
[LOs 1-4]

Books:
Callery, Dymphna (2002). Through the Body: A Practical Guide to Physical Theatre. London: Routledge.
Jordan, S. (2005). Striding Out: Aspects of Contemporary and New Dance in Britain. Alton: Dance Books Ltd.
Servos, Norbert (2008). Pina Bausch:Tanztheater. Klagenfurt: Kieser Verlag.
Tufnell, Miranda and Crickmay, Chris (1999). Body Space Image: Notes Towards Improvisation and Performance. Alton: Dance Books Ltd.

Journals:
Performance research journal
TDR: The drama review

Websites
www.franticassembly.co.uk
www.dv8.co.uk

The content of the taught sessions will relate to the local area as well as giving an insight into the national background of the expressive arts industry. The module to include the following:
An introduction/briefing to the Module
Workshops and studio tutorials, including introduction to:
vocal technique
physical technique
the psychology of communication
emotional expressionism
dance technique
Group critiques and production meetings & feedback
Individual Tutorials

You will have access to suitably equipped performance spaces and associated resources in the college.

Students will have access to studio space and college library and computer resources. University learning resources are available on campus at Stafford and Stoke-on-Trent, and online via the partner Need to Know pages of the university website.
http://www.staffs.ac.uk/courses_and_study/partnerships/current_students/email/index.jsp