Techniques A (Puppetry)

Subject THTR60007 (2011)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2011.

Credit Points: 25
Level: 6 (Graduate/Postgraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2011:

Semester 1, 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: 6 hours per week (or equivalent)
Total Time Commitment: 14 hours per week total time commitment
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 Student Centre
Email: vcam-info@unimelb.edu.au
Tel: +61 3 9685 9419
Fax: +61 3 9685 9358
Web: www.vcam.unimelb.edu.au
Subject Overview: Performance Techniques A (Puppetry) addresses knowledge and techniques specific to the discipline. It is practically based, and includes classes in performance skills, technical skills, writing and design. The performance component explores a wide range of puppet styles including rod, shadow, object, string, glove and body puppet. In the technical component, students will focus on technical issues that are particular to puppets and the scenic space around them. Students will study puppet construction which will include the consideration of issues such as weight, size, materials and mechanics

The writing and design components examine the development of a puppetry script from the initial idea through to its realisation in performance. The students will explore and become familiar with various script development models and the particular role of the writer and the designer within them.

The subject encourages the student to understand and experience the inter-related nature of the various creative elements that comprise puppet theatre as a collaborative art form as well as experience the more traditional solo approach. The subject will examine play-making processes both text based and non-text based. It will encourage the development of an original solo work.
Objectives:

On completion of this subject students should be able to

  • demonstrate skills in the manipulation and operation of puppets in a range of styles;
  • demonstrate technical knowledge particular to puppets and the scenic space around them;
  • develop a script from the initial idea through to realisation in performance.
Assessment: Written/practical assignments equivalent to 8,000 word essay (80%); participation (20%). Assignments will be due at regular intervals during the semester
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:

On completion of this 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/performng 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 responsibiltiy to their cultural environment and society.
Links to further information: http://www.vca.unimelb.edu.au/
Related Course(s): Postgraduate Diploma in Production

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