Acting - TFT00046C
Module summary
You will be exposed to some performance skills, with a focus on developing you as a theatre-maker. We will introduce you to a range of practitioner approaches, to ensure (a) you are equipped to recognise the kinds of character and ensemble forms, opportunities, and challenges that are presented in different plays, and (b) that you are able to recognise suitable acting and performance approaches, activities, and techniques to meet those specific opportunities and challenges. In short, the module encourages you to become a creative, knowledgeable, and reflective practitioner.
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Semester 2 2025-26 |
Module aims
This module aims:
- To introduce you to character work and develop your ensemble practice.
- To explore a range of actor approaches, techniques, workshop activities, and rehearsal possibilities, in theory and practice.
- To develop you as an enlightened and reflective performer.
- To deepen your understanding of the possibilities and challenges of play texts for performance.
Module learning outcomes
By the end of this you should be able:
- to have an understanding of the actor’s role.
- to present enlightened and reflective character work and ensemble practice.
- to rehearse and perform in ways that demonstrate understanding of the language of performance.
- to show sensitivity to the possibilities and challenges of play texts for the actor.
Module content
This module builds on the performance-work begun in Theatre-Making Workshop. It extends the ambition of that work, as we continue to negotiate features of storytelling, space, and bodies in performance; it extends your exploration of the possibilities of ensemble practice; and it introduces you to the challenges of characterisation in relation to a sampling of plays.
This module involves group practical work in a rehearsal room environment.
As such, attendance at workshop sessions is compulsory. In order to be able to work safely in practical, physical work, you are expected to equip yourself with the following:
-
trainers suitable for physical work – no heavy or slippy shoes. In some cases you may work barefoot if you are comfortable doing so.
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loose-fitting exercise clothing – jogpants and/or yoga-appropriate clothes. No jeans or crop-tops
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a water bottle
-
a paper notebook to record workshop outlines and reflections
During workshops, phones and laptops must be on silent/off and remain in your bags throughout the session. Long hair should be tied back and any large or dangling jewellery should be removed.
Workshops and rehearsals may involve any or all of the following: eye contact, physical activity, physical contact (support will be given for safe ways of engaging with touch in rehearsal environments), reflection on your own positionality in the group. You will be expected to challenge yourself to extend your comfort zone, while remaining safe through adjustments for injury or ability.
If you anticipate particular difficulties with any of the above expectations, you should begin a discussion with the module convenor before joining the module, and as soon as possible. Student Support Plans will be taken into account, and the module convenor will be happy to discuss these in advance on request.
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 75.0 |
| Practical | 25.0 |
Special assessment rules
None
Additional assessment information
Formative assessment will include a short extract from the student's reflective logbook in week 4 or 5 and group performances in week 11 and 12.
*For summative assessments, students will lose 3 marks per workshop, seminar or practical missed for this module.
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 50.0 |
| Oral presentation/seminar/exam | 50.0 |
Module feedback
You will receive written feedback in line with standard University turnaround times.
Indicative reading
Benedetti, J. (2005). The Art of the Actor.
Hodge, A. (ed.). (2010). Actor Training.
Bogart, A. and Landau, T. (2005). The Viewpoints Book.
von Laban, R. (1971). The Mastery of Movement.
Cohen, R. (2002). Acting One.
Zarrilli, P. (1995). Acting (re)considered: Theories and Practices.