Drama

We aim to develop an understanding of performance as a phenomenon and drama as a medium in their social and cultural contexts. This involves the study of performance across a range of sites from theatres to the street, and includes theoretical and practical investigations, both of which we see as indispensable to a thorough knowledge of the discipline.

These investigations will be valuable to you even if your interest in drama is purely as a spectator or student rather than as a practitioner. However, our courses are particularly valuable to those of you who will become responsible for facilitating, organising and realising live performing arts projects within and for the community. Our definition of community is wide: it embraces youth (including schools), the disadvantaged or underprivileged, business, the indigenous community and the ad hoc 'communities' which participate at specific events as spectators or audiences. In this capacity you will be involved in the creative development of ideas, and the design and implementation of effective strategies through to completion and evaluation of performance.

We teach through lectures, seminars and practical workshops. Our courses provide you with the foundational skills in areas such acting, directing for the stage, stage management and lighting design, playwriting, as well as the application of drama techniques to the primary and secondary teaching curricula. Our performance programme allows you to try out your skills as a performer, director or designer and to develop your understanding of the craft basis of theatre.