Course Catalogue

LJMU Partner Taught

The aims of the module are to: Introduce and explore the fundamental questions and principles of acting. Establish a broad foundation of understanding of acting techniques drawn principally from the work of Konstantin Stanislavski and his followers. Introduce methods of utilising experience and imagination to bring authenticity to acting. Establish a broad foundation of text analysis skills. Encourage students to work collaboratively in an ensemble situation and autonomously. Introduce the fundamental techniques required for screen acting and the ability to critically reflect upon their own performances in playback of their work. Promote the ongoing development of research and autonomous learning skills in the identification of appropriate material and preparation for class.

Outline Syllabus:Part 1 – Introduction to Core Acting Technique The module is an introduction to the theories and acting system of Konstantin Stanislavski and his followers. It will introduce students to both its history and theories, and the practical exploration and application thereof. In line with the work of Stanislavski students will explore the following. • Preparing to work (Ease, Focus, Observation, Imagination, Relaxation, Concentration) • Psycho-Physicality. • Introduction and exploration of Stanislavski's principles and the 'Essential Questions'. • The Magic 'If' • The Development of Character • The reality of doing - The Method of Physical Action Improvisation exercises and rehearsal scenarios to facilitate both a theoretical and practical understanding of the following terms: Inner life, Action, Objective, Super-objective, Activity, Obstacle (inner / outer), Circles of Attention, Stakes, Status, and The Fourth Wall. Text Analysis – Introduction to fundamental techniques of Text Analysis and application of these in preparation for the scene study. Part 2 – Application of principles to scene studies Scene Study Naturalism – Application of techniques to scenes from one and/or a range of play texts exploring the theatrical style of naturalism. At the end of this project there will be an internal sharing of your work to a selection of invited tutors. This will be assessed. Part 3 – Introduction to Screen Acting - You will be introduced to the fundamental techniques required for acting on screen, including working on monologues. With guidance, you will be expected to research and find appropriate material. In collaboration with the Contextual Studies 1 (Acting) module, you will be given a broad overview of film, identifying key films and performances. This will happen both in and out of class, requiring the students to work outside class and report back.

Additional Information:This module equips students with understanding and experience of core acting technique and text analysis through workshops, improvisations and rehearsal and presentation of a scene study. The students will be expected to talk about their process. This module will also introduce students to screen acting techniques. Assessment is via a presentation of a scene study (naturalism) and a Viva Voce describing and analysing their process and performance, and a filmed Monologue.