Social semiotics of rehearsal and performance
Rachel Fensham
8 or 12 points
* 2 hours per week
* First semester
*
Clayton
Objectives The student who successfully completes this subject should have gained a theoretical understanding of the semiotic processes involved in transforming a written text into dramatic performance and will be able to apply that knowledge to specific use in the analysis of selected texts and contexts of performance.
Synopsis The subject will focus on the way meanings are made in text-based theatrical rehearsal and performance. The aim will be to understand and theorise the semiotic processes which transform a verbal play text into an embodied performance in space and time. This will mean looking at the interactions of many different kinds of semiotics involved - verbal text, space, time, body, movement, gesture, costume, setting, lighting, music, voice, rhythm, intonation etc. It will also require analysis of the vocational training and different literacies of people who make and perform rehearsal and performance texts. People make theatre by means of academic analysis, directing, acting, dramaturgy, design, lighting and reviewing processes. Each of these processes has its own specific genres of reading and writing and of textual interpretation and production. All of these practices are gendered and related to the body and sexuality. All of them involve codes (grammars), dialogue/discourse and narrative. All of them contribute to the construction of social relations and cultural realities that are the institution of theatre.
Assessment (8 points) Assignment (2000 words): 35%
* Essay
(2000 words): 35%
* Seminar paper (2000 words): 30%
Assessment (12 points) Assignment (2000 words): 20%
* Essay (3000
words): 30%
* Seminar paper (4000 words): 50%
Prescribed texts
Chekhov Five plays Signet
Churchill Mouthful of birds
Shakespeare Othello Signet
References
Alter J A socio-semiotic theory of theatre Pennsylvania U P
Bennett S Theatre audiences: A theory of production and reception Routledge
Beckerman B Theatrical presentation: performer, audience and act Routledge
Case Sue-Ellen Performing feminisms Johns Hopkins U P
Elam K The semiotics of theatre and drama Methuen
Pavis P Languages of the stage: Essays in the semiology of the theatre Performing Arts Journal Publications
Schechner R Performance theory Routledge
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