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).
Supporting Images – In addition, you are encouraged to use images in support of your observations about the space and the productions which should be incorporated into your written response.
- Place all work in one PDF with a cover page that includes your name and title of brief
- Label the digital file with your name and title of brief. E.g: brown_mary_project_one.pdf
- Email submissions are not acceptable.
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.
Assessment Criteria
• thoroughness and accuracy of research
• clarity of structure and expression including appropriate use of terminology
• capacity to identify and explore the way the space and the play have been approached by the designer
• depth of your analysis
• appropriate use of visual material to support your arguments
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:
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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)?
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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?
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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
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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.
These are the list of venues to be used.
Please choose 1 venue only from the list below for the project:
- The Sumner Theatre, Southbank theatres, Melbourne
- The Upstairs Theatre, Belvoir Street Theatre, Sydney
- The Olivier Theatre, National Theatre, London
- The Merlyn, Malthouse, Melbourne