Module Information

This module is restricted to students who have demonstrated a developing ability in directing, to specialize and extend their knowledge and practice of the advanced skills, methodologies and approaches which are required for directing text from page to stage. It is open to those students who have shown particular talent and aptitude towards the art and craft of directing through their study of directing practice in DR22910, DR33830, DR33930, DR34030.

Entry on to the module:

Students intereested in taking this module will be required to prepare a written proposal of no more than 700 words, outlining their ideas, objectives and strategies for directing two x 30-minute projects, reflecting an initial understanding of the playwright's intentions and the difference in approach the proposals might entail. The examiners will decide which project, if any, can be developed and presented. This decision will be made by two experienced departmental practitioners who will assess the viiability and merits of each proposal.
This written 'pitch' must be submitted by 4.30 p.m. January 12th 2009.

The emphasis of this module is on students' independent learning. Students will be required to demonstrate an understanding of the principles of directing theatre texts through practice. The module will include 10 x 1 hour lectures and/or rehearsals discussing rehearsal methodologies and advanced approaches to the directing process. Each student will be given three 30-minute tutorials where feedback will be given at key stages of the project's realisation.

Criteria for Assessment

In assessing the practical project performance (70%) the examiners would want to see evidence of:

1. The ability to choose a suitable extract from the approved play text, to cast the selected text, organise and conduct an adequate number of rehearsals
2. the ability to take imaginative directorial decisions appropriate to the texts
3. an understanding of the challenges the text presents and the ability to meet these within the simple staging conditions allowed
4. the ability to organise, execute and sustain an appropriate rehearsal strategy/ investigative framework for the actors
5. to work towards a style of presentation and conceptual framework for the chosen text
6. thorough research appropriate to the demands of the text
7. the ability to work within the time scale, practical conditions and limits set for the project

In assessing the oral presentation (30%) the examiners will use the following criteria:

1. the ability to give a coherent critical analysis of the rehearsal process and the directorial concepts chosen
2. ability to justify the artistic decisions made and working practices adopted during the rehearsal period with regard to the source material and to differentiate the demands of the text
3. an intelligent and constructive analysis of the contribution made to the process by the actors involved
4. evidence of an advanced understanding of the director's role and responsibilities appropriate for level three and in the light of experience gained during the project
5. evidence of reading and research relevant to the demands of each of the practical projects
6. evidence of reading and research which has furthered the student's understanding of the work of a director
7. an ability to give an articulate, objective self-assessment including problems encounrered and achivements made