Unit information: Performance Space/Place in 2014/15

Unit name	Performance Space/Place
Unit code	DRAMM1113
Credit points	20
Level of study	M/7
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
Unit director	Dr. Krebs
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	s None
Co-requisites	s None
School/department	Department of Theatre
Faculty	Faculty of Arts

Description including Unit Aims

This unit will investigate the varied nature and relationships of space and place in performance, giving particular attention to the performative energies which articulate them to cultural change in particular historical periods. Different conceptions of space and place drawn from a range of disciplines, including archaeology, sociology, geography, cultural studies, theatre studies and performance studies itself, will be considered for their relevance to the efficacies of performativity in specific contexts of staged action. Cross-cultural study will compare the dynamics in and between traditional and innovative animations of place and space through performance, in a range of locations from established theatres through site-specific dramas to performance in the everyday and in cyber-environments. Practical exercises and field work will extend understandings of the circulation of power - social, political, cultural, etc - in the performative transformations of space and place, particularly at sites of celebration and contestation. The qualities of space and place that are integral to performances at different times will also be a source of study.

Aims:

1. To explore critically a range of performance practices, with particular reference to space, place and performativity, as developed in Theatre and Performance Studies, and related disciplines, at an advanced level.
2. To develop and apply appropriate critical and theoretical approaches to these chosen practices.
3. To investigate in a determined practical and creative manner one or more appropriate discourses that relate to space, place and performativity.
4. To develop and apply appropriate self-reflective analytical methods.
5. To identify, develop and apply appropriate research methods to an advanced level.

Intended Learning Outcomes

1. To demonstrate knowledge of, and use creatively, a wider range of secondary literature than at Level H
2. To demonstrate understanding of key concepts relating to space, place and performativity, as developed in Theatre and Performance Studies (and related disciplines)
3. To be aware of, and able to apply to an advanced level, a broad range of established critical and theoretical ideas and to develop a critical approach towards them.
4. To present a clear and well-structured argument, supported by relevant critical and theoretical literature, that additionally develops independent lines of inquiry
5. To present work that is assured in its use of English and referencing
6. To be able to communicate verbally key ideas based on a range of secondary reading, relevant primary texts and independent research/lines of inquiry
7. To demonstrate time management skills

Plus as appropriate to the mode of teaching:

1. To be able to write a reflective account of practical work, making connections with an appropriate range of critical ideas
2. To be able to work constructively and creatively in a group-based workshop
3. To work independently and reach individual/personal judgements within a collaborative context.

Teaching Information

These may include: Lectures; workshops; seminars; plenary and small group discussions; viewings; essay/critical analysis;

Assessment Information

Either:

2 x Essays (2,500 words)

Or:

1 x Essay (2,500 words) and 1 x Seminar Presentation and write up (1,500 words)

Or:

1 x Essay (2,500 words) and 1 x Critical Analysis (1,500 words)

Reading and References

Bachelard, Gaston (1994 [1964]) The Poetics of Space, tr. Maria Jolas, Boston: Beacon Press.

Carlson, Marvin (1989) Places of Performance: the semiotics of theatre architecture,

Ithaca, N.Y.: Cornell University Press.

Lefebve, Henri (1991) The Production of Space, tr. D. Nicholson-Smith, Oxford: Blackwell.

McCauley, Gay (1999) Space in Performance: making meaning in the theatre, Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press.

Soja, Edward J. (1989) Postmodern Geographies: The Reassertion of Space in Critical Social Theory, London: Verso.

Wiles, David (2003) A Short History of Western Performance Space, Cambridge University Press.