This module aims to position theatre and performance within the wider scene of the creative and cultural industries. It explores socio-cultural and political contexts of arts production. It introduces students to principles, practices and considerations in running an arts venue; programming, commissioning and presenting work; supporting artist development; marketing work to audiences and undertaking further outreach and engagement activities; setting up and running a theatre/performance company; conceiving programmes of work; planning tours; and identifying opportunities for funding and other sorts of professional development and support. It will also consider issues of sustainability into the future.
The module will be delivered in association with Warwick Arts Centre, building on close engagement between the Department of Theatre & Performance Studies and WAC.
The module will enable students to understand the pressures, contexts and informing principles that apply to theatre production, management and marketing. It will enable consideration and planning concerning specific company-based and individual projects. It will entail close consideration of specific producing situations and environments, and develop skills in producing, managing and marketing theatre and performance (in conceptual and emergent practical settings). It will facilitate an engagement with theatre and performance as disciplines that have effect within the wider sphere of the creative arts and cultural production.
The module will consist of sessions that combine contextual study, theoretical and conceptual overview and problem-based learning exercises. It will combine workshop and lecture-seminar approaches, with assessment activities designed to develop learning cognate to the areas studied. 3 hours per week over 9 weeks (Monday afternoons, 2.30 – 5.30) plus individual tutorials. All sessions (with the exception of the off site visits in weeks 2 and 3) will take place in Warwick Arts Centre.