DTS2450 - Contemporary drama

Leader(s): Will Peterson

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit investigates a number of contemporary dramatic texts by a range of playwrights whose work differs in style, content, structure, and context. The subject also covers performance processes, looking at theatre audiences and approaches to directing and acting, while bringing in theories and analytical frameworks that extend from our encounter with these texts. Workshop sessions will focus on analysing these texts while considering ways in which they may be made to speak to a contemporary audience.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Develop and manifest a clear familiarity with each text in its context.
2. Work singly and collectively to bring information in the playtext off the page and into creative dramatic life.
3. Discern conceptual meanings that extend from scripted language.
4. Bring energy and subtlety to dramatic interaction.
5. Be able to discuss and analyse the assigned critical material in ways that contribute to the student's understanding of theatre.
6. Employ methods of analysis, reflection, and judgment in both oral and written work.
7. Evaluate ideas, issues, and concepts the student considers significant in the texts and discussion.

Assessment

Workshop Participation: 20%
Workshop Facilitation: 20%
Essay (1500 words total): 25%
Performance, Design or Dramaturgical Project: 35%
Third-year students will be expected to show, in presentation and written work, evidence of wider reading in theories of contemporary performance.

Contact hours

2.5 hours (1 x 1 hour lecture and 1 x 1.5 hour seminar) per week

Prerequisites

A first-year sequence in Drama and Theatre Studies

Prohibitions

DTS3450