DTS2010

Mime, Mask and Magic

(ART)

S Tweg

6 points + 2 hours per week + First semester + Clayton + Prerequisites: DTS1060 or DTS1160 or ENH1060 or ENH1160 + Prohibition: DTS3010

Synopsis: The aim of this course in the very rich field of Commedia dell'Arte is to develop students' critical awareness, understanding, and enjoyment, of a highly skilled traditional performance style and to provide a basic grounding in commedia theatrecraft. Sessions will cover such topics as variations between constructed narrative and improvisation within scenes, individual and ensemble use of language, special vocabulary for characters, the place of music in performance, movement, the significance of the mask, costume and makeup as signifiers, the construction of full scenarios, satirical content of lazzi, and the ongoing tradition of commedia in modern artforms.

Assessment: Workshop presentation with written analysis (1500 words): 50% + Performance piece or design presentation with notes or essay (3000 words): 50% +