Module Identifier DR21510  
Module Title THE THEORY AND PRACTICE OF ACTING 1  
Academic Year 2001/2002  
Co-ordinator Mr Richard Cheshire  
Semester Semester 1  
Pre-Requisite DR10320  
Course delivery Workshop   40 Hours 20 x 2hr  
Assessment Workshop development   Attendance, punctuality, commitment and progress in workshops.   30%  
  Essay   a working notebook   20%  
  Exam     50%  

Aims


- An introduction into the principles of effective acting, based on the systematic approach to the actor's craft, advocated by Constantin Stanislavski.
- To test the value and relevance of these principles within the laboratory of a rehearsal environment under the guidance of the course tutor.
- To formulate an individual psycho-technique for rehearsal and performance
- To keep an analytic record of work undertaken in the form of a working notebook.

Learning outcomes


Typically, upon completion of this module, the student will be able:


- To understand the key principles involved in creating a stage character within the broad conventions of psychological realism.
- To employ such principles effectively in the creation of a short character etude.
- To demonstrate an awareness of the relationship between actor and director within the rehearsal room.
- To notate and document the theatrical procedures and training encountered in the module.

Content


A comprehensive investigation into the alleged "universal principles" of effective acting technique. Its starting point is the systematic approach to the actor''s craft advocated by Constantin Stanislavsky, but it moves towards an integration of his ideas within the wider spectrum of methodologies developed by practitioners as Michael Chekhov, Lee Strasberg etc. During the workshops students will encounter key aspects of the actor''s craft within the context of games, exercises and text work.

Reading Lists

Books
** Essential Reading
Barton, John. (1984) Playing Shakespeare. London: Methuen
Chekhov, Michael. (1991) On the technique of acting. New York: Harper Collins
Harrap, John. (1992) Acting. London: Routledge
Stanislavsky, Constantine. (1980) An Actor Prepares. London: Methuen
Stanislavsky, Constantine. (1983) Building a Character. London: Methuen
Stanislavsky, Constantine. (1983) Creating a Role. London: Methuen
Stanislavsky, Constantine. (1980) My Life in Art. London: Methuen
The Department has a supplementary booklet recommending reading lists for all practical modules..