FTMTTL-Transnational Theatre Landscapes: Institutions and Infrastructure

Module Provider: Film, Theatre and TV
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Email: v.rodriguesmorales@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

The module will enable students to develop an advanced understanding of the local, national and transnational contexts in which contemporary theatre is funded, programmed, administered, advertised, disseminated etc. Models of national and local / regional theatre institutions and funding structures, and of transnational co-production will be studied, as well as models of programming and audience engagement. 

Aims:

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of this module it is expected that students will be able to:

• compare funding structures in the UK with at least one other national or transnational funding model


• programme a season of theatre work for a specific theatre context


• compare 2 models of a national theatre


• understand specific strategies for outreach and audience engagement


• understand the processes involved in setting up a theatre company 

Additional outcomes:

The module plays a significant role in the advanced development of oral communication and argument in group situations; deployment of research using printed and electronic resources; critical analysis and coherent argument; undertaking self-directed, independent work; presentation of written work using IT. 

Outline content:

The module will examine models of local, national and transnational funding for theatre companies and for theatre venues or arts centres with significant theatre programming; will consider the major challenges faced by theatre institutions and companies in particular local, national and transnational contexts, will consider models of theatre programming, commissioning and audience engagement. Case studies of particular theatre companies, organisations and institutions will be examined, with input where appropriate from the professional sector.

Global context:

The module explores theatre and performance in an international context and refers to forms of practice and examples of work from across the world. 

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Within a two hour seminar, a range of teaching styles will be used and may vary from week to week. Staff led content will provide contextual material and introduce issues for discussion and debate. Seminars will examine models of theatre institutions and infrastructure with input from the professional theatre sector. Some of these will be local, such as Reading’s South Street Arts Centre, some national such as the Royal National Theatre or London based, such the Royal Court Theatre, and some international. Seminars and workshops will require preparation in the form of field, web based and library based research. Presentations will be prepared by individuals or small groups for analysis and discussion. There will a charge for approximately two – three theatre visits. Depending on availability these may be local in London or another close town, in which case a travel cost will apply.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Summative assessment – Coursework and in-class tests:

Number and length of assignments and in-class tests, and if available, the submission date for each assignment (expressed as a week of a specific Term):

2 x 1500 word Portfolio essays, one mid term, the other end of term.

1 x 3000 word Case Study Essay to be submitted at the beginning of the next term.

Formative assessment methods:

Students will receive formative feedback on class presentations which will be written up as part of the portfolio.

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 50% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

Resubmission of failed coursework

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 16 December 2019