DRAM2103 Reading Theatre: Plays in Production

This topic will examine and evaluate some key playwrights (Shakespeare, Chekhov, Ibsen, Brecht) and their plays in performance. There is also an examination of the creative and logistical components of a current local production.

This topic aims to:

• Provide students with the opportunity to examine the works of key playwrights (Shakespeare, Chekhov, Ibsen, Brecht) in performance and the influence of benchmark productions on the readings of their plays as contemporary works
• Provide students with the opportunity to develop an historical perspective by recognising, articulating and evaluating emerging theories and performances as applied in the works of the key playwrights studied
• Develop students' ability to think, speak and write about performance in a critically engaged, aesthetically informed and ethically responsive manner

2. Integrate and embody theoretical concepts in the performances in which you participate and have the ability to apply appropriate aesthetic criteria and historical perspective in analysing performance and the cultural contexts from which they have come
4. Demonstrate a close knowledge of the set theatrical texts and their landmark presentations and have an understanding of their significance in relation to the recent history of drama and, in particular, the emerging concept of the director
6. Exercise skills to critically assess your own praxis, have the ability to contribute to group discussions and respond constructively
8. Analyse a performance to evaluate the praxis the creators of the performance used and demonstrate an ability to research, formulate and present seminar papers and essays in a clear, coherent and confident manner