| Unit name | All The World's A Stage - Writing for the Theatre |
|---|---|
| Unit code | DRAM20043 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | I/5 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Academic Year (weeks 1 - 52) |
| Unit director | Mr. Bailie |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
None |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | Department of Drama: Theatre, Film, Television |
| Faculty | Faculty of Arts |
"I am a playwright which is to say that what I have done with most of my time for most of my adult life is to sit by myself, talk to myself, and write that conversation down" David Mamet. Theatre has historically been a crucial formative medium for writers best known for their work in a range of media. This unit will examine some different forms of theatre and consider how writers might relate to them both creatively and commercially. We will consider a number of genres or formats which may include the one-person show, large-scale community play or stage musical, and examine the opportunities and challenges that each presents. Whilst working to reinforce core skills identified in any relevant previous Unit(s) of study, we will examine the distinctive features of the craft of Theatre writing and consider the selection of themes particularly suited to the live theatre experience. Examining the working methods of a number of (predominately UK based) theatre companies, we will consider some of the pragmatic realities of turning script into production: this may include consideration of rehearsal processes and of ways of working with directors, designers and actors. Students will be expected to produce a substantial piece (or number of smaller pieces) of original creative writing.
