Module Identifier DR30220  
Module Title PRODUCTION ANALYSIS  
Academic Year 2007/2008  
Co-ordinator Mr Richard A D Cheshire  
Semester Semester 2 (Taught over 2 semesters)  
Other staff Dr Patricia A Rhodes  
Co-Requisite This module is available to Single Honours Drama students only.  
Course delivery Seminars / Tutorials   4 x 1 hour Seminars  
  Lecture   16 x 1 hour Lectures  
Assessment
Assessment TypeAssessment Length/DetailsProportion
Semester Exam2 Hours  60%
Semester Assessment 2 essays: 2000 word each. Essay 1: 15%, Essay 2: 25%  40%

Learning outcomes

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

- To identify the production choices made in selected performances.
- To reflect analytically and critically on the efficacy and significance of these production choices.
- To demonstrate a detailed knowledge of two of the texts studied and a deeper understanding of the problems, possibilities and challenges of interpreting these texts for contemporary performance.
- To produce critical reviews and analyses directed to particular target audiences.


Brief description

The module will examine a number of both professional and in-house productions in order to consider critically the way in which the different elements of a production come together to create the theatrical experience. These elements, which include the contribution of the directors, designers and performers, will be considered in isolation and in relation to each other, in so far as they contribute effectively to the realization of the text in the consciousness of the given audience. The module will look at aspects of the performance history and the critical evaluation of particular texts, and will also provide opportunities to discuss production choices and working methods with both directors and members of production teams.

Aims

The aims of the module are:

Content

Content:

This module is for single honours students only.

In the first semester the lectures and seminars will focus on the text chosen for performance. Several of these will be third-year productions of texts performed as part of the Department's English-medium practical semester. In Semester 2, lectures will focus on the text in performance for the School's Shakespeare project and productions chosen for the London visit.
Students should bear in mind their own responsibility for acquiring experience of the relevant text and bringing it to bear on their analysis of separate production events. It is also the responsibility of students to ensure that they attend the productions studied on the course. The lectures and discussions arranged with theatre practitioners are designed to be generally helpful and informative, but they should not distract attention from the proper focus of the module which is firmly on the personal experience and analysis acquired and developed by the individual student.
Students should be aware that they are expected to contribute towards the cost of the London trip. It is estimated that this will be approximately £200.

Module Skills

Research skills Students will demonstrate the results of individual research in the form of essays, examinations and contribution in lectures and seminars.  
Communication Students will demonstrate oral communication skills in seminar sessions and gain experience in selecting and analysing material for written assessments.  
Improving own Learning and Performance Students will receive feedback on written assignments.  
Information Technology IT and information handling skills will be demonstrated through students¿ individual web based and library research and through word processed essay presentation.  
Personal Development and Career planning Students will have the opportunity to explore specific areas which reflect and strengthen their individual career needs.  
Subject Specific Skills Students are encouraged to develop the use of a critical and analytical awareness and to expand their vocabulary in written and oral response to issues concerning theatrical texts in performance for modern audience.  

Reading Lists

Books
** Essential Reading
Hosts of Rebecca
Bond, Edward We Come to the River
Churchill, Caryl Light Shining in Buckinghamshire
Frisch, Max The Arsonists
Hatcher The Compleat Female Stage Beauty
Kane, Sara Psychosis 4.48
Poe, Edgar A. Masque of the Red Death
Thomas, Ed Stone City Blues
Wycherley The Country Wife
Cabaret: The Musical
** Recommended Text
Garebian, Keith The Making of Cabaret
Irving Wardle (1992) Theatre Criticism (Routledge)
Masteroff, Joe Cabaret: The Illustrated Book and Lyrics

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 6