Drama Processes, Design and Performance

Unit 4: An Active Text - Introduction to Physical Theatre: style, lighting, set design and directing of a script

The application of specific skills, dramatic techniques and processes is necessary in the creation of imaginative and innovative performances and presentations. In this unit, students will work with the technical theatre manager, learning about theatre configuration and set design using the stage in the box model set, before then working on the functions of lighting and controlling the lighting board to create imaginative lighting states for key moments in their scripted extract. The unit will culminate in a group performance and a reflection on learning about the 3 different design roles and directing in the process of interpretation of a script

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Unit 3: Storytelling & Story Structure

Now that learners have a base understanding of mise-en-scene, the production cycle and the techniques used to create films, we will study storytelling and how to use these new tools and skills to create a story.

How do we as filmmakers structure stories? What is an inciting incident? What is plot? What is the rule of 3 in comedy? What is the Hero's Journey? How does character drive a story's narrative? What is a character's Inner Journey and Outer Journey? The outcome of this unit will be a collaborative short film (3 to 5 minutes long) created in groups of 4 core team members. Each filmmaking team member will take on one role: Cinematographer, Director, Editor, Writer. Each team member will write a 1500 word project report based on their filmmaker’s intentions within their specific role.

Course AO rubric

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A course highlight

The film students were visited by ISTA Artist in Residence Ian Pike. Students worked on scripts, character backstory, storytelling, 3-act structure, and loglines. Ian Pike bio:

A full-time, freelance writer, director and workshop leader. Ian was born in Zimbabwe and trained as an actor. He then worked as a stand-up before creating his own series in animation, comedy and drama as well as working on long running programmes both in prime time and for children. Ian has recently been a writer on the satirical comedy series,

Have I Got News For You, has an original sitcom in development with James Corden's production company and has been running workshops and programmes in schools and Universities all over the world.