Master of Dramatic Art (Direction) (by Research)

Overview

An advanced level research project

Description

An advanced level research project consisting of the following inter-related aspects:

• a 2,500 word course and project proposal outlining the objectives and planned procedures for the year's work;
• directed study courses or secondments, arranged in liaison with the course coordinator which act as theoretical and/or practical support for the major research project;
• involvement in research methodology coursework, for students with limited research background;
• involvement in post-graduate seminars, in which students will be expected to report on their research progress;

The major research project:

• research activity is expected to encompass both practical exploration and historical/ theoretical investigative methodologies; and
• will culminate in the public presentation of a work, or series of works directed by the student. This will be supported and complemented by a research paper of 15,000 words.

The research project requires:

• The preparation, rehearsal and presentation of a major performance work or works. Be it a single work or related series of works, it should be the equivalent of at least a full length play. Where possible the student's project will be integrated into the Acting and Production streams of the School of Drama. The student should however be prepared to organise a production composed of non-VCA personnel. The student may propose a production outside the VCA but must then organise its realisation from outside resources.
• A 15,000 word research paper. This paper may include other documentation in recorded form such as sound tape, film, video, and CD Rom, as approved by the course assessment committee.

In addition candidates will be required to attend some course work seminars in aspects of Directing and/or Research methodology during their candidacy. These will usually be of two hours in length and will occur at various times throughout the year.

Candidates may in consultation with their course supervisor seek to undertake secondment to another institution or organisation or to relevant projects within the VCA.

Objectives

The objectives of this course are:

• to provide an opportunity for candidates of proven ability to undertake advanced work in direction in a chosen area of specialisation;
• to extend the expertise, knowledge, leadership skills, initiative, collaborative skills and self confidence of the candidate;
• to develop appropriate skills for the documentation, description and analysis of directorial processes;
• to promote the development of theatre in ways relevant for the contemporary age, whilst building upon the traditions of the art form; and,
• to make a significant contribution to both theatre and directorial practice in Australia.

Prerequisites

• Graduate Diploma in Dramatic Art (Direction);
  or
• a three year degree followed by honours abilities;
  or
• substantial professional experience and demonstrated artistic and leadership ability.

Applicants will normally have completed a tertiary course of study in drama. In cases of high aptitude, applicants who have not completed formal educational requirements may be admitted at the discretion of the Selection Committee.

Generic Skills

At the completion of the course 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; and,
• understand their relationship with and responsibility to their cultural environment and society.

Student Commitment

During the preparation of the 2,500 word course proposal, students will receive tutorial assistance from the course coordinator/supervisor. At this stage, the boundaries of the project will be agreed upon between the student and the supervisor. Students will then receive regular individual supervision, throughout the period of their research, and will be required to make regular reports on the progress of their project.

They will also be required to attend a formal interview with their course coordinator, and/or supervisor, at the end of each semester at which their progress will be discussed. Records will be kept of the discussion.

Assessment

Assessment will be by three examiners, at least two of whom will be external. Performance work(s) (70%); Research paper (30%).

The various aspects of course seminar work are hurdle requirements. Students must submit three copies of the research paper plus three videotape copies of the performance for examination in accordance with Statute 12.5.1, within the period of candidature. The initial submission for examination should be in unbound form; once the examination is complete and corrections have been made, two copies of the research paper must be submitted before the result is finalised. The copies are for the College Library.

The award of the Master of Dramatic Art (Direction) requires successful completion of all parts of the assessment requirement.

Course Progression Guidelines

The minimum duration of candidature is 18 months’ full-time study. The maximum time permitted for completion of the course is four semesters full-time or eight semesters part-time.

It is expected that the course will be undertaken without interruption. If it is necessary for the student to take leave for a short period, this must be arranged with the supervisor and approved by the Head of Postgraduate Studies. No more than one semester may be so deferred.

Student progress is monitored by the candidate’s supervisor(s) who are required to report in writing any lack of satisfactory progress to the candidate and to the Head of Postgraduate Studies. Where satisfactory progress had not been maintained, a candidate shall be given the opportunity to present and explain the reasons for this.