DTS1060

The language of performance

P Fitzpatrick

6 points
* 3 hours per week
* First semester
* Clayton

Objectives On completion of this subject students should have developed an understanding of the relation of the written text to performance possibilities, and of both to the processes of critical interpretation. They should also have acquired a knowledge of theories and procedures appropriate to the analysis of relationships, and the capacity to articulate their interpretations in written and oral forms, and in practical performance work.

Synopsis This subject introduces students to the ways in which meanings are communicated in the theatre, by a close study of selected plays. It is based on the assumption that the study of any theatrical text is incomplete if it is not related to models of performance, whether those are historical or contemporary, actual or hypothetical; the seminars will normally involve intensive work on particular sequences from the prescribed plays.

Assessment Essay (1500 words): 25%
* Seminar (folio): 25%
* Examination (2 hours): 50%

Prescribed texts

Brecht B The Good Person of Setzuan Penguin, 1995
Churchill C Vinegar Tom in Plays One Methuen, 1994
Davis J Kullark Centre for Drama and Theatre Studies
Hewett D The Man from Mukinupin Currency
Ibsen The Wild Duck OUP 1988
Williams T A Streetcar Named Desire Penguin, 1995