Postgraduate Diploma in Performance Creation

Overview

The Postgraduate Diploma in Performance Creation brings together Choreographers, Dance Animateurs, Theatre Animateurs, Directors, and Actor and Voice Trainers in a flexible program which enables distinct discipline specializations as well as cross-collaborative and interdisciplinary projects through common subject areas. Nurturing and developing arts practitioners who will contribute through leadership, research, performance development and/or pedagogy to Australian culture in the arts, in particular those aspects of culture and society that lie outside the dominant paradigms.

Description

Course Coordinators: Helen Herbertson (Dance) or Richard Murphett (Drama)

Animateuring (Dance/Theatre)
Animateuring involves the creation of new performances through the mobilisation of expressive, artistic and imaginative faculties in a variety of artistic and community contexts, the ability to work individually or in small groups, the capacity to work within and across art forms, community ownership of process and performance outcomes and collaboration within communities interested in developing and realising various forms of artistic performance. The animateur is a skilled performance artist (Dance and/or Theatre) with a central commitment to artistic leadership. He or she may be involved in various ways with the processes of creation, direction, facilitation, and performance. The role played is a pivotal one, with the success measured not only in artistic terms, but also by other indicators such as level of community support, participation, ownership and achievement of social and political goals.

Choreography
The choreography specialisation aims to facilitate proficiency in all aspects fundamental to dance and movement design with a high standard of compositional realisation through an examination of the processes of dance making and dance, the concepts of “choreographer’ and “dancer” and the training of the “body” of the dancer to manifest ideas and values.

Directing
The Directing specialisation aims to equip students with the skills to operate systematically and imaginatively as directors with individual vision and skills in artistic leadership, who may operate within the existing theatre professions, but who will essentially bring to the art form new initiative and creative energy.

Actor Training
This specialization offers a strong foundation for talented persons committed to developing themselves as actor trainers. As such, it is designed to equip them to operate systematically and imaginatively as trainers/directors within the existing training profession and performance industry, as well as stimulating them to re-appraise existing teaching practices and initiate new developments.

Voice Training
This specialization is designed to provide study and practice in voice for individuals who wish to follow a career in voice teaching. It is particularly likely to appeal to professionals who already have a knowledge and interest in the voice, eg. actors, directors, drama teachers, trained singers.

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Upon enrolment students select a specialization according to their interests and disciplinary focus. Studies are concentrated in four areas: Performance Theory and Organisation, Cross Disciplinary Skills, Discipline Specific Skills, Applied Projects.

Performance Theory and Organisation
Subjects shared by students in all specializations, which cover areas of skill and knowledge relevant to all specializations.

Cross Disciplinary Skills
Subjects in which students from different specializations combine and which cover aspects of skill and knowledge relevant to each.

Discipline Specific Skills
Subjects devised to cover areas of skill and knowledge particularly relevant to a specific specialization. Students from another specialization may join such subjects for some units.

Applied Projects
Projects which call for the testing of both discipline specific and cross disciplinary skills, but which are congruent with the area of study that the student has entered for training.

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Subjects by Specialisation
For students specialising in Choreography:

756-856	Performance Theory and Organisation A
756-857	Performance Theory and Organisation B
756-858	Cross Disciplinary Studies A
756-859	Discipline Skills A
756-860	Discipline Skills F
756-861	Applied Project A (Choreography)
756-862	Applied Project B (Choreography)

For students specialising in Dance Animateuring

756-856	Performance Theory and Organisation A
756-857	Performance Theory and Organisation B
756-858	Cross Disciplinary Studies A
756-859	Discipline Skills A
756-860	Discipline Skills F
756-863	Applied Project A (Dance Animateuring)
756-864	Applied Project B (Dance Animateuring)

For students specialising in Theatre Animateuring

756-856	Performance Theory and Organisation A
756-857	Performance Theory and Organisation B
757-879	Cross Disciplinary Studies B
757-880	Discipline Skills B
757-881	Discipline Skills G
757-882	Applied Project A (Theatre Animateuring)
757-883	Applied Project B (Theatre Animateuring)

For students specialising in Directing

756-856	Performance Theory and Organisation A
756-857	Performance Theory and Organisation B
757-879	Cross Disciplinary Studies B
757-884	Discipline Skills C
757-885	Discipline Skills H
757-886	Applied Project A (Directing)
757-887	Applied Project B (Directing)

For students specialising in Methodologies for Actor Training

756-856	Performance Theory and Organisation A
756-857	Performance Theory and Organisation B
757-879	Cross Disciplinary Studies B
757-888	Discipline Skills D
757-889	Discipline Skills J
757-890	Applied Project A (Actor Training)
757-891	Applied Project B (Actor Training)

For students specialising in Methodologies for Voice Training

756-856	Performance Theory and Organisation A
756-857	Performance Theory and Organisation B
757-879	Cross Disciplinary Studies B
757-892	Discipline Skills E
757-893	Discipline Skills K
757-894	Applied Project A (Voice Training)
757-895	Applied Project B (Voice Training)

Objectives

On completion of the course, students should:

• have developed and refined individual leadership abilities and capacities for initiating and realising projects in performance and/or performance pedagogy within and across a range of cultural and social contexts;
• have extended their skills and expertise in all aspects fundamental to their primary performance discipline – namely choreography, directing, animateuring or performance pedagogy;
• have acquired relevant skills in other disciplines;
• be able to foster creativity and experimentation, both individually and through collaboration with artists from their primary discipline area and other disciplines;
• have developed research skills at both a theoretical and practical level appropriate to postgraduate study;
• have acquired a greater understanding of the cultural context of the arts of performance at state, national and international levels.
• have achieved proficiency in eliciting ideas from people and implementing appropriate processes to develop artistic performances;
• have acquired a practical understanding of group dynamics and communication skills needed to develop productive work processes within a collaborative context;
• have developed effective entrepreneurial, planning management and promotional skills appropriate to projects, to ventures in arts training and to small arts organisations;
• have acquired a capacity with which to target, connect with, nurture and develop an audience.

Prerequisites

Entry Requirements

• an undergraduate degree or equivalent, in a discipline relevant to the specialization within the Postgraduate Diploma in Performance Creation for which the applicant is applying; or
• at least five years of relevant documented professional experience in an area relevant to the chosen specialization within the Postgraduate Diploma in Performance Creation for which the applicant is applying.

Generic Skills

At the completion of the course students should be able to:

• exhibit sound theoretical and practical knowledge of their discipline including relevant professional knowledge, skills discipline and ethics as they relate to a practicing 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.

Student Commitment

Contact times stated indicate the minimum staff contact hours with students. In addition rehearsals, preparation and research demand a 35 hour per week student involvement.

Assessment

Students are required to complete all course requirements before a recommendation can be made to award the Postgraduate Diploma.

Students are expected to attend all course subjects. Attendance at less than 80% of scheduled student contact hours will render the students ineligible for a result in that particular subject. Progressive assessment applies in most subjects and students will be notified if their work is below an acceptable standard.

Course Progression Guidelines

The course is not modular and it is expected that students shall complete the course on a full time basis in one year. The maximum time permitted for completion of the course is two years full time.

The progress of a student shall be deemed to be unsatisfactory if the student:
(a) fails to pass 50% of the total credit points in any semester;
or
(b) obtains two successive fails in any one subject.

Qualification for Award

The award of the Postgraduate Diploma in Performance Creation requires the successful completion of the prescribed subjects and the gaining of a total score of 100 credit points.

Subjects by Year

Year 1

• 756-856 - Performance Theory & Organisation A
• 756-857 - Performance Theory and Organisation B
• 756-858 - Cross Disciplinary Studies A
• 756-859 - Discipline Skills A
• 756-860 - Discipline Skills F
• 756-861 - Applied Project A (Choreography)
• 756-862 - Applied Project B (Choreography)
• 756-863 - Applied Project A (Dance Animateuring)
• 756-864 - Applied Project B (Dance Animateuring)
• 757-879 - Cross Disciplinary Studies B
• 757-880 - Discipline Skills B
• 757-881 - Discipline Skills G
• 757-882 - Applied Project A (Theatre Animateuring)
• 757-883 - Applied Project B (Theatre Animateuring)
• 757-884 - Discipline Skills C
• 757-885 - Discipline Skills H
• 757-886 - Applied Project B (Directing)
• 757-887 - Applied Project B (Directing)
• 757-888 - Discipline Skills D
• 757-889 - Discipline Skills J
• 757-890 - Applied Project A (Actor Training)
• 757-891 - Applied Project B (Actor Training)
• 757-892 - Discipline Skills E
• 757-893 - Discipline Skills K
• 757-894 - Applied Project A (Voice Training)
• 757-895 - Applied Project B (Voice Training)

Subjects

Year 1

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Helen Herbertson (Dance) Richard Murphet (Drama)
Contact hours:	4.0
Semester:	Semester 1

Subject description:

For students specialising in all streams:
Choreography, Dance Animateuring, Theatre Animateuring, Directing, Actor Training & Voice Training

This subject focuses on contemporary performance creation from a theoretical organisational and resourcing viewpoint. 

Historic and current performance practice is examined, including cross-cultural, interdisciplinary and contextual perspectives with student seminar presentations and regular visiting practitioners who discuss their philosophies and approach.  An understanding of the organisational components of performance creation is encouraged via a focus on - pre-production planning, areas of copyright, ethics and other matters of legality, occupational health and safety considerations and project financial management.  Locating resources for project development is highlighted through guest speakers and an introduction to the structure of governmental funding bodies and the processes involved in preparation and evaluation of funding submissions.

Objectives:

On the completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to interpret and analyse artistic work in the context of professional practice within both a broader cultural field and a body of contemporary ideas;
• the capacity to evaluate and synthesise data and other information;
• the ability to communicate in oral and written form;
• the capacity for critical thinking;
• the ability to effectively participate in a team pursuing creative objectives;
• the ability to initiate, maintain, manage and organise artistic practices within community, industry and business organisational structures.
  

Assessment:

• individual seminar presentation (30%);
• written tasks totalling no more than 2000 words (20%) (mid & end semester);
• problem solving tasks and questionnaires (50%) (mid & end semester);
• hurdle Requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 1

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Helen Herbertson (Dance) Richard Murphet (Drama)
Contact hours:	3.5 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 2

Subject description:

For students specialising in all streams:
Choreography, Dance Animateuring, Theatre Animateuring, Directing, Actor Training and Voice Training

The subject extends the theoretical focus on performance creation while providing an introduction to research resources, practice-lead approaches and other research methodologies.  Historic and current performance practice is re-examined, including cross-cultural, interdisciplinary and contextual perspectives with student seminar presentations and regular visiting practitioners who discuss their philosophies and approach. 

Students develop a working understanding of appropriate research methods, including practical experience in locating resources (local and global) for specific inquiries.  Attention is given to the problems of research writing and editing as they apply to higher degree research in the creative arts.

Objectives:

On completion of this subject it is expected that students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to interpret and analyse artistic work in the context of professional practice within both a broader cultural field and a body of contemporary ideas;
• the capacity to evaluate and synthesise data and other information;
• the ability to communicate in oral and written form;
• the capacity for critical thinking;
• the ability to access data and other information from a range of sources;
• the capacity to develop and design research processes appropriate to specific projects;
• the capacity for a flexible approach to problem solving.

Assessment:

• seminar presentation on artistic practice (30%) (mid semester);
• skill advancement in problem solving tasks in the research seminar (25%);
• written task on critical theory  and research to no more than 2500 words (45%);
• hurdle Requirement 80% attendance.

   

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 2

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Helen Herbertson
Contact hours:	6 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 1

Subject description:

This subject is for students specialising in Dance Animateuring, Theatre Animateuring and Choreography
The subject focuses upon the potential for interplay and dynamic dialogue between the building blocks of performance creation.  Seminars and practical/studio-based classes provide interaction with other disciplines (e.g. sound, music composition, film, design) to develop communication and collaborative abilities within processes of artistic composition.

There is a focus upon design and light and an exploration of the generative processes used in performance creation (kinaesthetic creativity, sound design for choreography, writing for performance, cross modal improvisation).  Laboratory classes explore the effect of light, space, form, colour and texture, allowing students to develop design concepts together, to experiment, and to become familiar with lighting and set design methods, materials and possible solutions.  A series of seminars focus upon creative teams of professional practitioners e.g. designers and directors, designers and choreographers, who discuss the ways in which collaboration can occur in the development of design/production concept and realisation

Objectives:

On the completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to work in other modalities and appreciate their potentials;
• the ability to work as a team in the creation and  organization of aesthetic material;
• the capacity to solve problems;
• the capacity for critical thinking and the evaluation of artistic materials;
• the capacity to identify and use the principles of another modality in the creation of one’s own work.

Assessment:

• individual and collaborative practical projects (55%);
• written assignments and reports equivalent to no more than 2500 words (45%) (to be completed at intervals throughout the semester);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

   

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 1

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Helen Herbertson
Contact hours:	5 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 1

Subject description:

This subject is for students specialising in Choreography and Dance Animateuring
Thes subject focuses on dance making fundamentals through compositional and improvisational approaches and strategies for generating materials.  Corporeality, space, and time are investigated within aesthetic parameters.  A number of concepts such as presence, identity and embodiment are fore-grounded.  Techniques for releasing and shaping the spontaneous self through improvisation are explored.  Frameworks for structuring material within performative contexts are developed and short studies created.  Contextual seminars provide a basis for application of the strategies in a range of choreographic practices.

Objectives:

On the completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to create and organise aesthetic material;
• the ability to solve problems;
• the ability to interpret and analyse;
• the capacity for critical thinking;
• the ability to synthesize data and other information.

Assessment:

• short dance works and practical presentations (3-5 minutes), each with specific objectives (55%);
• short reports equivalent to no more than 2540 words (45%) (at regular intervals throughout the semester);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

   

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 1

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Helen Herbertson
Contact hours:	5 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 2

Subject description:

This subject is for students specialising in Choreography and Dance Animateuring.
The subject extends the knowledge and application of dance-based approaches to the development of generative materials for performance creation.  Students explore different creative directing/choreographic processes in realising solo and group studies.  Idiosyncratic approaches are evaluated along with alternative forms of conceptualising and realising dance.  The further development of skills in utilising various modes of artistic material in dance-based performance includes the creation and incorporation of digital audio and visual materials. Contextual seminars provide a basis for application of the strategies in a range of choreographic practices.

Objectives:

On completion of the subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to create and organise aesthetic material;
• the capacity to respond to unfamiliar problems with a flexible and innovative approach;
• the capacity for critical thinking and evaluation of data;
• the ability to access data and other information from a range of sources.
• the ability to use relevant computer software

Assessment:

• quality of advancement as evidenced in practical tasks (55%) (throughout  semester);
• documentation and written reports totalling no more than 2500 words (45%);
• hurdle Requirement 80% attendance.

   

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 2

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Helen Herbertson
Contact hours:	2 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 1

Subject description:

Artistic project planning, development and realisation of a performance project(s), which build upon the materials of composition from Cross Disciplinary Studies and Discipline Skills.  The project may be undertaken on an individual or small group basis with either a specialist or interdisciplinary focus.

Objectives:

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to plan, create and evaluate small-scale creative projects;
• the capacity to communicate orally and in writing;
• the capacity for imaginative and transformative processes;
• the application of theory to practice;
• the ability to solve problems.

Assessment:

• skills advancement in Practical Project (60%) (end semester);
• written reflection and documentation totalling no more than 2000 words (40%) (end semester);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 1

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Helen Herbertson
Contact hours:	2 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 2

Subject description:

This project involves the application of composition, planning and management, facilitation and directing skills to the creation and realisation of a new performance work. Other disciplinary skills will complement the principle area of specialisation.  The student has some technical support and presents the project for a short public season addressing location, promotion and audience engagement issues in the process.

Objectives:

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the capacity to conceptualise creative processes and new performance structures;
• the ability to organise and manage creative processes and realisation of artistic work;
• the ability to communicate in action, orally and writing;
• the capacity to facilitate group/collaborative processes.

Assessment:

• Performance Project (preparation, involvement, rehearsal, performance) (55%) (end semester);
• 1 x 2500 word paper focussing on a central aspect of interest that is integral to the student’s performance practice and the work being presented. (45%) (end semester);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 2

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Helen Herbertson
Contact hours:	2 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 1

Subject description:

This subject involves artistic project planning, development and realisation of a performance project(s), which builds upon the materials of composition from Cross Disciplinary Studies and Discipline Skills.  The project may be undertaken on an individual or small group basis with either a specialist or interdisciplinary focus.

Objectives:

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to plan, create and evaluate small-scale creative projects;
• the capacity to communicate orally and in writing;
• the capacity for imaginative and transformative processes;
• the application of theory to practice;
• the ability to solve problems.

Assessment:

• skills advancement in Practical Project (60%) (end semester);
• written reflection and documentation totalling no more than 2000 words (40%) (end semester);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance .

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 1

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Helen Herbertson
Contact hours:	2 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 2

Subject description:

This project involves the application of composition, planning and management, facilitation and directing skills to the creation and realisation of a new performance work. Other disciplinary skills will complement the principle area of specialisation.  The student has some technical support and presents the project for a short public season addressing location, promotion and audience engagement issues in the process.

Objectives:

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the capacity to conceptualise creative processes and new performance structures;
• the ability to organise and manage creative processes and realisation of artistic work;
• the ability to communicate in action, orally and writing;
• the capacity to facilitate group/collaborative processes.

Assessment:

• Performance Project (preparation, involvement, rehearsal, performance) (55%) (end semester);
• 1 x 2500 word paper focussing on a central aspect of interest that is integral to the student’s performance practice and the work being presented. (45%) (end semester);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 2

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Richard Murphet
Contact hours:	6 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 1

Subject description:

This subject is for students specialising in Directing, Actor Training and Voice Training
The subject focuses upon the potential for interplay and dynamic dialogue between the building blocks of performance creation.  Seminars and practical/studio-based classes provide interaction with other disciplines (e.g. sound, music composition, film, design) to develop communication and collaborative abilities within processes of artistic composition.

There is a focus upon design and light and an exploration of the generative processes used in performance creation (kinaesthetic creativity, sound design for choreography, writing for performance, cross modal improvisation).  Laboratory classes explore the effect of light, space, form, colour and texture, allowing students to develop design concepts together, to experiment, and to become familiar with lighting and set design methods, materials and possible solutions, with particular regard to the demands of theatre texts.  A series of seminars focus upon creative teams of professional practitioners e.g. designers and directors, designers and choreographers, who discuss the ways in which collaboration can occur in the development of design/production concept and realisation.

This project is designed to draw together and extend the various strands of work undertaken through the preceding phases of the semester.  Students will be required to work in a directorial capacity on a short text-based production.  They will either direct a play or a series of scenes, under close staff supervision, or assist a professional director who will provide them, under guidance, with regular experience of rehearsing actors.  In both instances, students will be involved in all phases of the planning and realisation of the work.  The project may be located within the Drama School, or in the wider community e.g. working with TAFE drama students. Students will be required to document all phases of the work including a post-production analysis of the working processes.

Objectives:

On the completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to work in other modalities and appreciate their potentials;
• the ability to work as a team in the creation and   organization of aesthetic material;
• the capacity to solve problems;
• the capacity for critical thinking and the evaluation of artistic materials;
• the capacity to identify and use the principles of another modality in the creation of one’s own work.

Assessment:

• individual and collaborative practical projects (55%) (to be completed throughout semester);
• written assignments and reports equivalent to no more than 2500 words (45%) (to be completed at intervals throughout semester);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 1

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Richard Murphet
Contact hours:	6 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 1

Subject description:

This subject is for students specializing in Theatre Animateuring
Practical studio-based workshops on the materials and structures of Performance, with seminar discussions providing a theoretical context.  Areas of content include duet collaboration, processes of solo performance, small group devising methods, performance making strategies and performance pedagogies

Objectives:

On completion of the subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to create and organise aesthetic material;
• the ability to initiate creative work from a range of varied source materials;
• the ability to use a range of research tools and methodologies;
• the ability to understand the relationship between form and content;
• the ability to solve problems;
• the ability to lead others in the skills of problem solving;
• the ability to interpret and analyse;
• the capacity for critical thinking;
• the ability to work as a leader, showing initiative and openness.

   

Assessment:

• quality of work in critical discussions and practical project tasks (55%);
• short papers totalling no more than 2500 words, reflecting on aspects of the subject (45%) (mid & end of semester);
• hurdle requirement: 80%.

   

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 1

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Richard Murphet
Contact hours:	6 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 2

Subject description:

This subject is for students specializing in Theatre Animateuring
The subject extends the knowledge and application of the materials and structures of performance and investigates their application to the act of performance with an audience. There will be further opportunities for discovering fresh ways to generate performance, with particular emphasis placed on cross-modal work within the discipline itself.

Objectives:

On the completion of this subject students should have acquired the following skills:

 

• the ability to work with a group through and understanding of group dynamics, based on experiential practice and theoretical research;
• the ability to facilitate the creativity of others and to identify points of initiation;
• a facility with how to structure a creative work through an understanding of structural principles.

   

Assessment:

• quality of  skill advancement as evidenced in creative and/or theoretical problem solving tasks (60%)(throughout semester);
• written work totalling no more than 2000 words (40%)(end semester);
• hurdle Requirement 80% attendance.

   

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 2

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Richard Murphet
Contact hours:	2 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 1

Subject description:

This subject encompasses artistic project planning, development and realisation of performance projects, building upon the composition of new performance studies in Cross Disciplinary Studies and Discipline Skills for Theatre Animateurs. 

There will be two projects undertaken in this semester:

1. Duet Performances developed with other members of the group in a studio performance format; and
2. Solo Performance developed for a short season in a studio performance format.

Objectives:

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to plan, create and evaluate a small-scale creative art work;
• the ability to work with another artist in an open and constructive way;
• the ability to take full responsibility for one’s creative work:
  fundamental skills in time management, working to a deadline, constructing an overall project timetable and a daily schedule of work.

Assessment:

• skills advancement as evidenced in 2 Practical Project (55%) (mid & end of semester);
• written reflection and documentation totalling no more than 2500 words, (40%) (end semester);
•  hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

   

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 1

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Richard Murphet
Contact hours:	2 horus per week
Semester:	Semester 2

Subject description:

This subject involves the application of composition, planning and management, facilitation, collaboration and directing skills to the creation and realisation of new performance works. Other disciplinary skills will complement the principle area of specialisation.

There will be two projects undertaken in this semester: 

1. The facilitation of a short work of original performance devised with a group of actors from the acting course. In this project, the Animateurs works as a facilitator/director of the performance, which is also an important facet of the actors’ training program.
2. This project is to be a more developed piece and is intended to be part of a season for the general public. It may be in the form of collaboration with another specialization or course or an independently produced project led and organised by the Animateurs. This will depend upon opportunities that arise within the year.

Objectives:

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to work as a leader, showing initiative but also an openness to the ideas of others and ways of encouraging these;
• the application of advanced skills in the initiation, conception and structuring of a creative work;
• the application of advanced skills in leadership, initiative and group dynamics;
• the application of advanced skills in time management;
• the application of skills in group dynamics;
• a deeper confidence in working as a leader with small and large groups.
  

Assessment:

• Project 1: preparation, involvement, rehearsal, performance (30%);
• Project 2: preparation, involvement, rehearsal, performance (30%);
• written work and documentation not exceeding 2000 words (40%) (mid & end of semester);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

   

Time Commitment:

120 hours per semester

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Richard Murphet
Contact hours:	6 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 1

Subject description:

This subject is for students specializing in Directing

A series of practical workshops and seminar sessions concerned with different aspects of the role of the director, particularly in relation to the actor and to dramatic text. 

 

Areas of content include:

• Approach To Text,
• Word and Action
• The Poetics of Space
• Rhythm in Theatre, and
• Working with the Actor.

There will be ongoing testing of these skills in Scene Laboratories.

Objectives:

On the completion students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to create and organise aesthetic material;
• the ability to use a range of research tools and methodologies;
• the ability to solve problems;
• the ability to lead others in the skills of problem solving;
• the ability to interpret and analyse;
• the capacity for critical thinking;
• the ability to work as a leader showing initiative and openness.

Assessment:

• quality of work in critical discussions and practical project tasks (55%);
• short papers totalling no more than 2500 words, reflecting on aspects of the subject (45%) (mid & end of the semester);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 1

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Richard Murphet
Contact hours:	6 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 2

Subject description:

This subject is for students specializing in Directing

A series of seminars and individual tutorials concerned with different aspects of the creation of a performance of a dramatic text.  The focus for much of the semester will be upon learning and interrogating the skills relevant to the rehearsal and staging of a full production. There will also be sessions opening up a range of approaches to the art and craft of acting and of writing for performance. These will include lecture demonstrations from professional acting teachers and practical workshops with a playwright on dramaturgical skills.

 

Objectives:

On the completion students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to work with a group through and understanding of group dynamics, based on experiential practice and theoretical research;
• the ability to facilitate the creativity of others and to identify points of initiation;
• the ability  to structure a creative work through an understanding of structural principles;
• a clearer understanding of the actor’s craft through research and some experiential practice, which places it in a social and historical context;
• the application of advanced skills in script editing and dramaturgy.

   

Assessment:

• quality of skill advancement in practical tasks (60%) (throughout semester);
• documentation and written reports to no more than 2000 words (40%) (mid & end of semester);
• hurdle Requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 2

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Richard Murphet
Contact hours:	2 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 1

Subject description:

This subject encompasses artistic project planning, development and realisation of performance projects, which build upon the materials of composition from Cross Disciplinary Studies and Discipline Skills. There will be two Projects undertaken in this semester: (1) The direction of a short scene from a theatre text; and (2) Working as an Assistant Director on a full-length production within the Acting Department of Drama

Objectives:

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to plan, create and evaluate a small-scale creative art work;
• the ability to work with another artist in an open and constructive way;
• the ability to take full responsibility for one’s creative work:
  fundamental skills in time management, working to a deadline, constructing an overall project timetable and a daily schedule of work;
• the ability to learn through constructive observation of a master practitioner at work.

Assessment:

• work on short scene direction (25%);
• work as an Assistant Director (30%);
• written reflection and documentation, totalling no more than 2500 words (45%) (mid & end of semester);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours per semester

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Richard Murphet
Contact hours:	2 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 2

Subject description:

This subject involves the application of composition, planning and management, facilitation and directing skills to the production of a text-based performance work. Other disciplinary skills will complement the area of specialization.  The student has some technical support and presents the production for a short public season addressing location, promotion and audience engagement issues in the process.

The play will be chosen in consultation with the course coordinator. The project is to be fully documented through all its phases, including a detailed written post-production analysis of the working process

Objectives:

On the completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to work as a leader, showing initiative but also an openness to the ideas of others and ways of encouraging these;
• the application of advanced skills in the initiation, conception and structuring of a creative work;
• the application of advanced skills in leadership, initiative and group dynamics;
• the application of advanced skills in time management;
• the application of skills in group dynamics;a
• a deeper confidence in working as a leader with small groups.

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 2

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Richard Murphet
Contact hours:	6 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 1

Subject description:

This subject is for student specialising in Actor Training

The subject examines the process of teaching through theory and practice.  It comprises a series of practical workshops and seminar sessions concerned with different aspects of the role of the actor trainer/director particularly in relation to the actor and to dramatic text.  

 

Each student will be apprenticed to an acting lecturer and will pursue a particular line of pedagogy.  Areas of content include focus upon the various aspects of actor training and pedagogy.  There will be ongoing testing of these skills in Scene Laboratories

Objectives:

On the completion students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to create and organise aesthetic material;
• the ability to use a range of research tools and methodologies;
• the ability to solve problems;
• the ability to lead others in the skills of problem solving;
• the ability to interpret and analyse;
• the capacity for critical thinking;
• the ability to work as a leader, showing initiative and openness.

Assessment:

• quality of work in critical discussions and practical project tasks (55%);
• short papers totalling no more than 2500 words, reflecting on aspects of the subject (45%) (mid & end of semester);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours per Semester 1

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Richard Murphet
Contact hours:	6 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 2

Subject description:

This subject is for students specialisng in Actor Training
A series of practical workshops and seminars concerned with different aspects of the creation of a performance of a dramatic text and the planning of a layered curriculum. There will also be sessions opening up a range of approaches to the art and craft of acting. These will include lecture demonstrations from professional acting teachers.

Objectives:

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the facility to structure a curriculum through an  understanding of educational principles;
• the ability to work with a group through an understanding of group dynamics, based on experiential practice and theoretical research;
• the ability to facilitate the creativity of others and to identify points of initiation;
• the ability to structure a creative work through an understanding of structural principles;
• a clearer understanding of the actor’s craft through research and some experiential practice, which places it in a social and historical context.

Assessment:

• creation of a curriculum and a performance plan (40%);
• leadership of practical seminar based on research (30%);
• documentation and written reports to no more than 1500 words (30%) (mid & end of semester);
• hurdle Requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 2

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Richard Murphet
Contact hours:	2 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 1

Subject description:

Artistic project planning, development and realisation of performance projects, building upon the materials of composition from Cross Disciplinary Studies and Discipline Skills.

The two Projects to be undertaken in this semester are:

1. teaching a workshop or series of classes, under close staff supervision, or assisting a teacher who will provide them, under guidance, with regular experience of teaching actors; and
2. working as an Assistant Director on a full-length production within the Acting Department of Drama.

Objectives:

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to learn through constructive observation of a master practitioner at work;
• the ability to clearly communicate ideas about process and required tasks with others;
• the ability to watch the work of others with clarity and patience;
• the ability to create a working atmosphere of unconditional positive regard;
• the ability to work as a leader, showing initiative and openness.

Assessment:

• work on Theatre workshop teaching (40%);
• work as an Assistant Director (30%);
• written reflection and documentation, totalling no more than 1500 words (30%) (mid & end of semester);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 1

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Richard Murphet
Contact hours:	2 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 2

Subject description:

This subject involves the application of composition, planning and management, facilitation and pedagogical skills to the presentation of a teaching program through its conceptual, planning and delivery phases. The program will be undertaken with participants drawn from within the College and/or the wider community.   The proposal, which will be developed in consultation with the staff coordinator, must be fully documented by the student through all of its phases, including a detailed written post-program analysis of the working processes.

Objectives:

On the completion of this subject students should be able to understand and implement:

• the application of advanced skills in the teaching of a curriculum;
• the application of advanced skills in leadership, initiative and group dynamics;
• the application of advanced skills in time management;
• the application of skills in group dynamics.

Assessment:

• planning and realisation of the project (60%);
• written work and documentation not exceeding 2000 words (40%) (end of semester);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 2

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Richard Murphet
Contact hours:	6 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 1

Subject description:

This subject is for students specialsing in Voice Training
This subject consists of two areas, one of which examines the process of teaching through theory and practice, whilst the other examines the actor’s A process of speaking through theory and practice. It comprises a series of practical workshops and seminar sessions concerned with different aspects of the role of the voice teacher, particularly in relation to the actor and to dramatic text, and with different aspects of the use of the natural voice in a public context. Each student will be apprenticed to a voice lecturer and will pursue a particular line of pedagogy.

Objectives:

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to create and organise aesthetic material;the ability to use a range of research tools and methodologies;
• the ability to solve problems;
• the ability to lead others in the skills of problem solving;
• the ability to interpret and analyse;
• the capacity for critical thinking;
• the ability to work as a leader, showing initiative and openness.

Assessment:

• quality of work in critical discussions and practical project tasks (55%);
• short papers totalling no more than 2500 words, reflecting on aspects of the subject (45%) (mid & end of semester);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 1

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Richard Murphet
Contact hours:	6 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 2

Subject description:

This subject is for students specialising in Voice Training
The subject examines the process of teaching through theory and practice.  It comprises a series of practical workshops and seminar sessions concerned with different aspects of the role of the voice teacher particularly in relation to the actor and to dramatic text.   Each student will be apprenticed to a voice lecturer and will pursue a particular line of pedagogy.

Objectives:

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to work as a leader, showing initiative but also an openness to the ideas of others and ways of encouraging these;
• the application of advanced skills in the initiation, conception and structuring of a curriculum;
• the application of advanced skills in leadership, initiative and group dynamics;
• the application of advanced skills in time management;
• the application of skills in public relations.

Assessment:

• the creation of a curriculum plan for a unit of work which includes objectives and the outcomes (40%);
• quality of skill advancement as evidenced in leadership of practical seminars and classes based on specific research  (60%);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 2

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Geraldine Cook
Contact hours:	2 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 1

Subject description:

This subject encompasses artistic project planning, development and realisation of pedagogical projects, building upon the materials of composition from Cross Disciplinary Studies and Discipline Skills. Students will be required to work in a teaching capacity in a class.  They will teach a voice workshop or a series of voice classes, under close staff supervision, or assist a teacher who will provide them, under guidance, with the experience of teaching actors.

Objectives:

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following skills:

• the ability to learn through constructive observation of a master practitioner at work;
• he ability to clearly communicate ideas about process and trequired tasks with others;
• the ability to watch the work of others with clarity and patience;
• the ability to create a working atmosphere of unconditional positive regard;
• the ability to work as a leader, showing initiative and openness.

Assessment:

• skill advancement as evidenced in Practical Project (60%)(end of semester);
• written reflection and documentation totalling no more than 2000 words (40%) (end of semester);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 1

Credit Points:	12.5
Coordinator:	Geraldine Cook
Contact hours:	2 hours per week
Semester:	Semester 2

Subject description:

This subject involves the application of composition, planning and management, facilitation and pedagogical skills to the presentation of a teaching program through its conceptual, planning and delivery phases. Students will be required to work in a teaching capacity in a class.  They will teach a voice workshop or series of voice classes, under close staff supervision, or assist a teacher who will provide them, under guidance, with the experience of teaching actors. Students will be required to document all phases of the work including a post-class analysis of the teaching processes.  As an extension of this applied teaching project, the student will be required to research a topic of their choice, which demonstrates an interest and research on a particular voice topic.

Objectives:

On the completion of this subject students should be understand and be able to implement:

• the application of advanced skills in the teaching of a curriculum;
• the application of advanced skills in leadership, initiative and group dynamics;
• the application of advanced skills in time management;
• the application of skills in group dynamics;
• the capacity to respond to unfamiliar problems with a flexible and innovative approach;
• the capacity for critical thinking and evaluation of data.

Assessment:

• two weeks of supervised professional teaching (40%);
• seminar presentations and research (20%);
• a written paper and documentation of no more than 2000 words, reflecting on aspects of the subject (40%);
• hurdle requirement 80% attendance.

Time Commitment:

120 hours in Semester 2