Scotch College

THEATRE STUDIES [Semester Unit]Year 10 — 2010

Rationale

This study of theatre involves students in the interpretation through performance of playscripts in both naturalistic and non-naturalistic performance styles. Theatrical productions are a creative co-operation between several areas of expertise. To create meaningful theatrical experiences, we need to understand the collaborative process that exists between writers, actors, designers and others involved in areas of stagecraft. Students will explore working both as actors to develop performance skills and as designers/creators to develop a deeper understanding of the communication of meaning through areas of stagecraft. Students will work with design in the stagecraft areas of set, props, lighting, sound, costume and direction in order to increase their understanding of how to make meaning through performance.

Student Outcomes

Students will learn to:

• Analyse a creative problem to then create a practical solution using areas of stagecraft, including acting
• Interpret a script through performance and theatrical designs
• Develop acting skills appropriate to the performance tasks undertaken
• Manipulate the practical elements of direction, lighting, sound, costume, makeup, properties and set design in order to create meaningful theatrical experiences
• Develop an understanding of the use of dramatic elements and theatrical conventions in performance
• Develop an understanding and appreciation of the actor’s responsibilities in performance
• Develop an understanding of the processes of working in ensemble and the social skills required when working creatively with others

Course Content

Basic to the course is learning how to create an interpretation in terms of its broader stagecraft potential. Students will be presented with both performance and stagecraft problems and will be required to develop a creative solution to both existing playscripts and created work. Students will work as both performers and designers in order to create performances which enhance the meaning of the subject matter. Students will be involved in practical activities in order to develop an understanding of the manner in which areas of stagecraft can enhance the meaning of both existing and devised work.

We will define the various roles associated with areas of stagecraft and demonstrate how they must interrelate within a design concept born out of a play’s specific needs. Students will practically explore areas of stagecraft, including acting, in order to manipulate these to enhance the meaning of playscripts. This unit will be divided into sections exploring either different existing scripts or creating scripts based on a design brief, with students working as either performer and/or designer. Necessary stages in each task will include; studying the script, working with a team of designers working with to develop a solution to the design task, researching and absorbing the range of resource material, followed by drafting an appropriate design solution in consultation with the design team to establish style, mood and meaning in performance.

ICT Skills

This course requires the manipulation of sound, light and digital magery. The recording, editing and mixing of sound effects using mp3 files will use the iTunes program and at least one other sound editing program.

Assessment

• End of Semester Performance Task
• Stagecraft Skills
• Performance skills
• Written Tasks