Semester 1 and 2.

This module introduces skills, practices and competencies in one or more areas of theatre production and enables students to explore and demonstrate these in a studio/workshop context.  It will focus primarily on planning, scheduling and basic technical competencies and requirements (which may include set, lighting, sound and health and safety).  The module will prepare students to work in University spaces, to work safely with technical equipment and to be aware of the work that is required in planning for and implementing production processes.

• To provide an experience of a specific theatre production technique (one or more may be offered) (c)

   

• To educate students in a practical understanding of the skills, practices and competencies of the technique (c, e)

   

• To educate students in the technical and performance principles of one or more techniques and the ability to demonstrate or embody this understanding in a studio context (a,c)

   

• demonstrate informed practical understanding of one or more specific theatre techniques (A2, B1)

   

• Recognise the context  of individual skills in wider production processes (B3)

   

• Demonstrate techniques and awareness associated with recognised technical processes in the creation and realisation of performance (C3)

   

• Work to deadlines and produce clear, coherent responses to task briefs (D3, D4)

   

The emphasis is on the importance of embodying fundamental principles to provide a secure technical foundation for work throughout the degree.  The module introduces skills, practices and competencies in theatre production.  These may include:

·        Stage management

·        Analysis of scripts for production needs/ground plan, props

·        Pre-production/Rehearsal scheduling

·        Budgeting

·        Elements, stages and responsibilities of a production process

·        Lighting operation

·        Sound operation

·        Scenic construction/organisation

·        Prop creation/acquisition

·        Health and Safety

Workshops/practical class

Required Reading :

Palmer (2000) Essential Guide to Stage Management, Lighting and Sound.  Hodder Arnold

Recommended Reading : (Ayres, 2008; Bennett, 1990; Bicat, 2006; Ebrahimian, 2006; Elam, 1991; Goodwin, 1989)

Sources will vary considerably based on the techniques offered by the department.  The following would be relevant as additional reading to locate individual techniques within wider contexts of theatre processes.

Ayres, N, Creating Outdoor Theatre: A Practical Guide. Ramsbury: The Crowood Press, 2008.

Bennett, S, Theatre Audiences: A Theory of Production and Reception. London: Routledge, 1990.

Bicat, T, Handbook of Stage Costume. Marlborough: The Crowood Press, 2006.

Ebrahimian, B, Theatre Design: Behind the Scenes with Top Set, Lighting and Costume Designers. Hove: RotoVision SA, 2006.

Elam, K, The Semiotics of Theatre and Drama. London: Routledge, 1991.

Goodwin, J, British theatre design : the modern age. New York: St. Martin's Press, 1989.