NM2701 - Performance Writing

Credit points:	03
Year:	2010
Student Contribution Band:	Band 1
Administered by:	School of Creative Arts

Available to All Students

This subject introduces the student to the specifics of writing for the performance space. It provides students with an understanding of live performance writing and writing for camera. Students participate in a series of writing exercises that lead to the creation of short scenes that typify a range of performance situations. Studies scrutinise the use of sound and image in the making of performance text and analyse the role of dramaturgy in giving shape to non-linear and linear narrative. Students will work in ensemble groups as writer, director and performer presenting performed readings to the public.

Learning Outcomes

• fundamental skills in writing for performance;
• understanding of the reciprocal roles of playwright, performer, director, designer and audience within an historical/contemporary context;
• fundamental techniques learned towards the realization of a performance text;
• understanding of the dimensions of stagecraft and theatricalisation for performance developing a personal methodology for performance writing.

Graduate Qualities

• The ability to think critically, to analyse and evaluate claims, evidence and arguments, and to reason and deploy evidence clearly and logically;
• The ability to deploy critically evaluated information to practical ends;
• An understanding of the economic, legal, ethical, social and cultural issues involved in the use of information;
• The acquisition of coherent and disciplined sets of skills, knowledge, values and professional ethics from at least one discipline area;
• The ability to manage future career and personal development;
• The ability to read complex and demanding texts accurately, critically and insightfully;
• The ability to speak and write clearly, coherently and creatively;
• The ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences;
• The ability to lead, manage and contribute effectively to teams;
• The ability to use online technologies effectively and ethically.

Availabilities
Townsville, Internal, Study Period 1
Census Date 25-Mar-2010
Coord/Lect:	Ms Debra Thomas.
Contact hours:	13 hours lectures 26 hours workshops/Seminars
Assessment:	presentations (20%); one writing project (40%); performance reading (20%); writing exercises (20%).

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.