Performing Arts Practice 1 (SM)

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2013:

120 hours

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

This subject is delivered via 4 modules - Module One: Theatre Making; Module Two: Equipment Operation; Module Three: Devised Project; Module Four: Studio-Based Practice

Module One:
This module will introduce to the student the concept of dramaturgy and analysis of source material (choreography, text) and in relation to the performance outcome. Students will learn about the various forms and styles that have been popular in theatre. Areas covered will include but not be limited to Realism, Naturalism, Symbolism, Expressionism, Epic Theatre, Constructivism, Existentialism, and Absurdism. This module will provide students with both an understanding of the theatre making process and a historical context of the style, genres and trends that have influenced the staging of live performances. This module will support the devised work that students undertake in module three.

Module Two:
Students will be instructed in the techniques required to safely and effectively operate basic hand and power tools in the assembly and set up of scenery for the stage. Students will also examine simple prop making and stage mechanist skills pertinent to the role of stage management students in a production team.

Module Three:
This module will provide students with an opportunity to collaborate in the realising of a performance piece. The first year cohort will be divided into groups of approximately 4-6 people and provided with a stimulus. Each group will work in a collegial and collaborative manner to devise a response to the stimulus with an outcome that can that will be viewed by an audience of their peers.

Module Four:
The students will be assigned to a practical studio based project in a designated minor role to assist with the development, application and/or design of a practical element that relates to their major, within the context of a studio-based project. For example as an Assistant Stage Manager on a theatre or dance project.

Module One:
On successful completion of this module students will have a context and understanding of the various forms of theatre presentation, will be able to analysis source material using theatrical concepts and apply this knowledge to their own process.

Module Two:
On successful completion of this module students should be able to safely and effectively
 operate basic hand an power tools
 assist in the assembly and set up of scenery for the stage
 undertake simple prop making tasks

Module Three:
On successful completion of this module students will be able to apply knowledge gained from the first and second module.
Participants of this module will work as a member of a team and produce a performance that can be viewed by an audience of peers.

Module Four:
At the end of this Module the students should have had a ‘hands-on’ experience within their area of study and the opportunity to learn through both individual and peer practical engagement.

Module One: 30%
A 1000 word essay on the various genres and movements in presentation style of theatre. Due mid semester. 30%

Module Two: Hurdle requirement
Practical weekly tasks x 5 (500 words or equivalent) 20%
Workbook Due week 10 (500 words or equivalent) 10%

Module Three: 40%
A 1000 word essay clearly articulating the dramaturgical reasoning behind the devised work, your individual input and a self reflection on the process and final product. Due at the end of semester - 20%
The performance (1,000 words or equivalent) 20%

Module Four: 20%
Self reflective written response (300 words or equivalent) Due at the end of week 16.
Weekly tutorial attendance and participation.

Participation (for all modules) 10%
Class attendance is required for this subject; if you do not attend a minimum of 80% of classes without an approved exemption you will not be eligible for a pass in this subject. Assessment submitted late without an approved extension will be penalised at 10% per day. All assignment work must be submitted and a pass in each module must be achieved for successful completion of this subject.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

On completing this subject students will be able to:
• work at various levels, both as an individual and as a team member, in a wide variety of visual/performing artistic environments;
• 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 practical skills in respect of critical analysis, problem solving, report writing, team work and oral and written communication.