Task Purpose:
To consider a contemporary theatre space with particular reference to two separate productions mounted in the space
Weighting 1000 words
Submission Written Response: – A written response to the task described below. We want you to think about the qualities of the chosen performance space and how they have been used and/or manipulated in two separate and contrasting productions. (approx. 1000 words). Chicago A (Footnote) Style
Learning Outcomes: Demonstration of an understanding of how a performance space can influence the choices in a production;
Use of appropriate theatre terminology;
Use of research skills;
Demonstration of an understanding of a performance space with an emphasis on the history and development of performance spaces in the Western world.
Task Description: You will be given a list of four significant contemporary performance spaces. You are required to choose one of the spaces, find two contrasting productions that were produced in it and write an analysis describing how the performance space has been manipulated through design.
The areas we would like you to explore are:
1. Introduction – What is the history of the space? Who created it? How was it created? Can you identify what style of stage the space is? Can you give an example of an historic precedent for the space (the lectures will provide you with examples)?
2. The space – How large is the auditorium and how big is the audience for each space. How do they view the performers in the space? How big is the stage and does it have any special technical facilities? Is there anything that makes the space unique or special?
3. The productions – How have they transformed or manipulated the space? How have they utilised unique features of the space? How do the productions vary in style? Can you identify different production conventions both contemporary or historic? It is essential to credit The Company, Date of Staging, the Director and the Stage Designer for both chosen productions 4. Visual support material – You are required to include visual images in your paper. This must include a plan, elevation and interior photograph of your chosen space as well as at least three photographs of each chosen production in that space.
Please note: You are required to use correct terminology in your analysis, drawing on terminology discussed in the lectures and referred to in the glossary of terms
More Glossary of Terms can be find in: https://www.theatrecrafts.com/pages/
