module specification

The module looks at how to create material for performance through an exploration of the relationship of dance to other art forms and the space. The module will compliment work carried out in Tools of Choreography (Semester 1) as it builds on the foundations of choreography to further explore broader notions of performance. Through research and improvisation learners will work in creative teams to identify source material for performance, with an emphasis on experimentation and the relationship between performer and audience.

This module aims for the student to:
• Understand how to work collaboratively in teams and make a creative contribution
• Research a range of stimuli as potential source material.
• Utilise improvisation techniques to create material
• Understand the possibilities for performance through an examination of the relationship of dance to other art forms.
• Become familiar with different modes of presentation such as site -specific, interdisciplinary
• Examine the relationship between performer and audience

Students will engage in practical performance workshops which will look at the different ways to present performance looking at dance, sound, theatre techniques, performance spaces and elements such as film. Students will be facilitated by tutors to work in small groups to devise material and share performance ideas from a range of perspectives. The emphasis will be on exploration and the development of creative ideas. Recordings of the process will enable students to refine and develop their work.

Live and recorded work will be viewed in order to enhance understanding of the different modes of performance with a particular focus on artists who have employed a range of forms to present their work e.g Ace Dance and Music, Pina Bausch, Frantic Assembly, Shunt.
The module builds on the creative foundation presented in semester 1 through choreography and prepares the way for work to be studied academically in the Year 2 module Critical and Contextual Studies.  Work will be shown in progress for feedback by tutors and peers and performed to an audience in an appropriate setting as devised by the group. Practical work will be accompanied by a group presentation detailing the nature of the process using a range of presentation methods such as powerpoint including DVD clips, photographs, etc.

Students will be encouraged to research a wide range of work in order to understand the key concepts and challenges facing artists as they seek to present different performance modes. They will be facilitated to work and rehearse in groups and document the process for the purpose of self evaluation and the group presentation. There will be input from a series of visiting speakers as well as tutor input throughout the module. The use of technology, film and sound will be encouraged through rehearsal documentation and the presentation. Students will work collaboratively with other foundation degree students studying photography, digital media, fashion and textiles to fully explore the process of creating performance work.

On completion of this module students will demonstrate the ability to:
• Research a wide range of stimuli and use in the creation of performance material.
• Utilise improvisation techniques effectively to create work
• Research a variety of spaces and develop their potential as performance venues.
• Understand the range of relationships that can exist between different art forms in performance.
• Work in a small group to devise material for a performance through informal showings and a final presentation.
• Through self evaluation recognise the importance of performance elements such as energy and clarity of intention in communicating ideas to the audience.
• Analyse the creative process and the possibilities for performance creation through a group seminar presentation of ideas.

1.Formative assessment of work in progress to be viewed half way through the process. Video documentation will be used to examine ideas and view progress, which will enable learners to develop the potential of initial ideas. They will be assessed on the process of collaborative work. Week 8 30%
2.Group Practical Performance in a selected performance venue or environment, Week 13 40%
3.Group Seminar 10 Minute Presentation utilising technology to describe the creative process. Week 14 30%,

Essential.

Jaques, D. & Gilly S (2006) Learning in Groups: A Handbook for Face-to-Face and Online Environments. London: Routledge
Kloetzel,M.  Pavlik,C. (Ed)( 2011) Site Dance: Choreographers and the Lure of Alternative Spaces. Gainsville: University Press of Florida
Tufnell M, Crickmay, C (2004) A Widening Field, journeys in body and imagination. London: Dance Books 

Recommended
Huxley,M. Witts,N.(ed)( 1996)  The twentieth Century performance Reader,( 2nd ed), London/New York: Routledge
Preston-Dunlop, V (1998) Looking at dances, a choreological perspective on choreography. London: Verve Publishing

Journals
Animated Winter 2012 , Foundation for Community Dance.

DVD
Collaborative Choreography: An approach to Making ( 2009) DeMontfort University

www.acedanceandmusic.com
www.franticassembly.co.uk
www.shunt.co.uk
www.thecpr.org.uk