760-251 Script and Theatre

12.5 points of theatre studies at first year level or equivalent.

The subject examines the relationship between script and theatre and draws initially on Roland Barthes' notion of the reader as 'scriptor'. Its focus is on playwrights and writing for theatre. Students will study plays but also non-dramatic texts such as the novel, poetry and the essay that are also scripted for the stage. The adaptation of television drama to the stage and the use of intertext and hypertext will also be considered as a way in which contemporary theatre draws on a wide range of source materials. Students should develop an understanding of dramatic structure and composition, play interpretation and analysis, genre, the multiple relations of text to performance, performance analysis and the experimental script. The subject also enables students to consider the cultural and historical contexts in which script is produced and performed.

• be able to conduct research through competent use of the library and other information sources, and through defining areas of enquiry and methods of research;

• demonstrate teamwork through joint performance preparation;

• demonstrate time management, independent organization and planning;

• communicate knowledge in oral, written and/or creative form;

• think critically and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing, workshop practice and performance and by determining the strength of an argument or approach to performance.

A written essay of 2000 words 50% (due at the end of semester), a 1000 word tutorial paper or equivalent written paper 25% (due one week after oral presentation), and performance 25% (end of semester). A hurdle requirement of a minimum 80% attendance is required.

A subject reader will be available.