Credit Points: 15
Study Time: 150 Hours

This unit develops research, critical understanding and analytical skills to inform your developing practice by exploring emerging issues and perceptions of traditional and historical contexts, and to consider potential developments in the framework of post modern performance.

Informed through a series of staff and student led seminars and independent study, you will undertake a sustained piece of academic writing and use the opportunity to confidently apply the academic skills acquired.

Outline Syllabus

• Key contextual issues influencing developments in performance including world cinema/ theatre, collaborative performance, gender, identity, and emerging performance genres, cultural and ethical issues, and perceptions of reality versus theatricality 
• Development of critical argument through the application of research Application of academic protocols 
• Advanced study skills

Method of delivery
Seminars, group tutorials, viewings and visits as appropriate.

Aims

A1 To further expand and broaden your knowledge of performance within the context of emerging issues and perceptions
A2 To identify links between your specialist topic and the relevant theoretical and conceptual frameworks
A3 To establish an understanding of the various processes and methods of research and critical appraisal
A4 To develop the organisational skills which will enable independent learning and self-management

Learning Outcomes
On completion of this unit you will be able to:

LO1 Demonstrate knowledge of contemporary issues and perceptions of performance
LO2 Demonstrate your ability to make links between your specialist topic and relevant theoretical/conceptual frameworks.
LO3 Demonstrate your understanding of the various processes and methods of research and critical analysis.
LO4 Demonstrate the application of organisational skills and evidence of independent learning and self-management.

Reference material

Recommended

Auslander, P. (1999) Liveness. London: Routledge.
Baugh, C. (2005) Theatre performance and technology: the development of scenography in the twentieth century. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan. Berghaus, G. (2005) Avant-garde performance: live event and electronic technologies. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.
Dixon, S. (2007) Digital performance: A History of new media in theatre, dance, performance art and installation. The MIT Press.
Lehmann. H.T. (2006) Postdramatic theatre. New Edition. London: Routledge.
Oddey, A and White, C. (2006) The potentials of space. Bristol: Intellect.
Sierz, A. (2001) In-Yer-Face theatre: British drama today. London: Faber and Faber.
Styan, J. (1981). Modern drama in theory and practice 2: symbolism, surrealism and the absurd. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Styan, J. (1981). Modern drama in theory and practice 3: expressionism and epic theatre. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Journals
Contemporary theatre