This module introduces students to major concepts, themes and approaches in Theatre Studies. In the Autumn term the module examines the discipline of Theatre Studies and explores different approaches to studying and analysing theatre. Units on theatre history and biography, are matched by explorations of concepts such as the audience, time, space, genre, performativity, and theatre as social protest.
In the Spring term, the module then relates these concepts to a number of plays considered in a chronological developmental order, from the European and World theatre traditions. Plays studied range from those written in 5th century Athens, to the middle Ages, to those written in the 20th century. These same texts will form the basis for the discussion of issues of genre, representation, narrative structures, theatricality, characterization, gender, modernism, the post-dramatic and identity.
In the summer term, in one week of intensive training and practical workshops, led by an appointed tutor, students will work in groups towards an assessed practical piece of performance. Elements of the Autumn and Spring terms will be form the basis of both the Summer term workshops and assessment.
Weekly sessions will consist of a 50 minute lecture (entire cohort) then splitting into two class groups for a 2-hour practical workshop.
In the summer term, there will be one week of intensive training and practical workshops, led by an appointed tutor.
- Module Supervisor: Mary Mazzilli