British and Irish Theatre and Performance

The course aims to provide advanced knowledge in the field of Drama and Theatre Studies, while developing skills in the analysis of dramatic texts and theatrical practices within a British historical and cultural context. It encourages reflection on the reciprocal influence between contemporary theatre and different forms of expression, focusing at different times on particular authors, periods or key issues such as interactions with other media, the dynamics between innovation and tradition, and aesthetic, social and political implications. A historical-evolutionary perspective will be integral to the training, alongside an awareness of the developments and critical debates that have shaped the history of British theatre. The course also includes practical opportunities for students to apply their acquired skills and methodologies through activities such as attending scheduled performances, producing short plays or performances, and engaging in group work.

Knowledge and understanding of the history, sources, methods and tools of theatre studies and the practices of dramaturgy, performance and directing, with particular reference to the British tradition. Knowledge of some of the major theatre figures, dramaturgies and practices, their historical-political, cultural and aesthetic contexts, stage practice, interlingual and interlinguistic transfer. An understanding of the theoretical, methodological and historical-cultural issues involved in the study of British theatre, including its intermedial and intercultural dissemination. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding: ability to analyse and interpret the dramatic text and staging; ability to discuss and argue in a seminar context on the topics covered in the course and to apply the method to further examples; ability to apply the skills acquired in the production of both creative and critical (written or oral) individual or group work of appropriate methodological rigour.