Critical Studies

Subject DRAM10004 (2011)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2011.

Credit Points: 6.25
Level: 1 (Undergraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2011:

Year Long, Southbank - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period not applicable
Assessment Period End not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol not applicable
Census Date not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail not applicable


Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: 2 hours per week
Total Time Commitment: 48 hours
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements: For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Description, Subject Objectives, Generic Skills and Assessment Requirements of this entry.
The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

Contact

Faculty of the VCA and Music
Email: vcam-info@unimelb.edu.au
Tel: +61 3 9685 9419
Fax: +61 3 9685 9358
Web: www.vcam.unimelb.edu.au
Subject Overview:

This subject provides an opportunity to discuss a range of ideas and issues related to culture in general, and theatre in particular, in an analytical and enquiring manner. Discussion will draw on examples from both contemporary and historical practices and will stimulate student's interest in the critical context in which culture takes place. The subject covers two main areas;

  • a general discussion of theatre as a medium

  • an introduction to aspects of modern theatre history with an examination of a number of influential theatrical movements through particular practitioners and works.

Students will be expected to keep a journal.
Objectives:

On completion of this subject students should be able to

  • contribute to debate and discussion in a responsive and informed way;
  • demonstrate an understanding of some aspects of modern theatre history;
  • show an appreciation of some aspects of critical discourse in relation to theatre culture;
  • construct and maintain a well-argued position.
Assessment:

Assessment is based on class participation, level of preparation, and the degree to which the stated objectives have been achieved. Students are required to present a performance manifesto of 10 minutes duration. Class participation (75%); manifesto/project (25%). In order to pass this subject, a passing grade is required in both areas.
Prescribed Texts: None
Recommended Texts:

None
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills: At the completion of the subject students should be able to:
• Exhibit extensive theoretical and practical knowledge of their discipline including relevant professional knowledge, skills, discipline and ethics as they relate to a practising visual/performing artist.
• Demonstrate capacities for artistic imagination, creativity, transformation and interpretation.
• Demonstrate practical skills in respect of critical analysis, problem solving, report writing, team work and oral and written communication.
• Demonstrate a flexible and innovative approach to the national and international challenges for the professional visual/performing artist in the 21st century.
• Work at various levels, both as an individual and as a team member, in a wide variety of visual/performing artistic environments.
• Contribute to a range of visual/performing arts environments as artistic collaborators and leaders.
• Demonstrate an open, independent and inquiring attitude towards contemporary cultural developments and new ideas.
• Critically and creatively engage with topics of cultural significance across communities.
• Understand and appreciate how the visual and performing arts connect with the broader society and contribute to its social and economic development.
• Understand their relationship with and responsibility to their cultural environment and society.
Related Course(s): Bachelor of Dramatic Art (VCA)

Download PDF version.