This module introduces the students to devising theatre in response to selected stimulus material and deals specifically with contemporary performance practices. Students will be encouraged to devise performances, which are not restricted by more traditional conventions of time, space, setting, narrative and character. Key texts and practitioners will be chosen for their suitability to selected stimulus and will support much of the practical exploration undertaken.

In addition to their practical exploration of the module, students will be required to take part in a viva voce.

Artaud, A, The Theatre and its Double, Calder, 1995.
Barry, P, Beginning Theory, An Introduction To Literary and Cultural Theory, Manchester University Press, 2002.
Childs, N (Editor) & Walwin, J (Editor) A Split Second of Paradise: Live Art, Installation and Performance, Rivers Oram Press, 1998.
Drain, R (Editor) Twentieth Century Theatre, Routledge, 1995.
Golberg, R, Peformance: Live Art Since the 60's, Thames and Hudson, 1998.
Hilton, J, Performance, Macmillan, 1987.
Howells, A, The Analysis of Performance Art, Harwood Academic Publishers, 2000.
Johnstone, K, Impro: Improvisation And The Theatre, Methuen, 1985.
King, P, Pix and Mix: A Structured Approach to Devising Stylised Theatre, Pearson Publishing, 2001.
Oddey, A, Devising Theatre, A Practical and Theoretical Handbook, Routledge, 1994.
Schechner, R, Performance Studies: An Introduction, Routledge, 2002.
Schechner, R, Performance Theory, Routledge, 1994.
Sontag, S, Against Interpretation, Vintage, 1994.

Small group practical project - 0.75 hrs [Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3]
Viva Voce [Learning Outcome 4]

Preliminary workshops will provide an introduction to the processes undertaken in the devising of contemporary theatre performance. In particular, students will be encouraged to devise performances, which are not restricted by traditional western notions of script-based drama. Workshops will culminate in a devised public performance, lasting approximately 45 minutes in length.

Key practitioners and theorists will underpin much of the practical exploration undertaken. Through a combination of practical workshops, lectures and seminar discussion students will be introduced to some of the central concerns governing contemporary performance practices.

Students will be required to participate in a viva voce, detailing their involvement and understanding of the project.

You will need access to these resources:

Library facilities, computers and internet access.
Rehearsal rooms and performance spaces.