Module Information

Module content is expected to include origins and definitions of performance; contemporary genres of performance; theoretical, critical and analytical approaches to performance; aesthetic, conceptual and operational strategies of devising; structure and composition; exposition and documentation. Content may be adjusted to capitalize upon the specific expertise of those delivering the module.

Indicative sessions might include:
1. Origins of performance: play, ritual and proto-theatre
2. Definitions of performance: contemporary genres and practices
3. Theories of performance 1: anthropological/archaeological models
4. Theories of performance 2: schools of theory
5. Analysis of performance: form and structure; documentation
6. Concepts of performance: strategies
7. Concepts of performance: aesthetics
8. Dramaturgy 1: devised performance
9. Dramaturgy 2: principles of ordering
10. Staging performance

The aim of this module is:
a) to introduce and explore selected definitions of the phenomenon of performance as
both aesthetic practice and mode of cultural production, and to examine approaches to the analysis of a range of manifestations of performance and non-textual genres of performance
b) to provide a secure grounding in exemplary theories of performance and in a range of
conceptual methodologies, including compositional, structural, spatial, temporal and narrative composition.
c) to address and evaluate the form and function of certain forms of contemporary performance, through the development of appropriate vocabularies in the assessment of aesthetic practice.
d) to enable students to understand and critically apply the terminology of particular approaches to performance theory and application.
e) to enable students to contribute to topical debate on the nature of performance