Theatre in the Community provides an exploration of theoretical and practical strategies that are currently in evidence within contemporary community theatre practice, with a particular emphasis on work pertaining to criminal and social justice. The work will include an examination of the key political or social philosophies that have informed such practice as well as an exploration of the role drama process plays in the work. This stage of the module includes an examination of how theories of psychology have informed theatre work with offenders as well as an overview of professional companies and artists working in the criminal justice system. Related fields of psychodrama and dramatherapy are also discussed.
It explores practical strategies which encompass games and exercises for use with community groups. Within this there is reference to group-based drama skills, community contexts, and the primary objectives achievable within practice of this kind. The module is designed to prepare students for a practical project. In the final part of the module, participants will get to plan, devise and perform a performance or series of workshops within a criminal justice or social agency context in the West Midlands or Staffordshire area.
Why do the plays of Shakespeare continue to be recontextualised, reduced and remixed? The playwright himself was a consummate adapter, drawing on pre-existing materials and re-working these for his audiences, for whom his plays were a form of popular entertainment. This module will challenge your perception of what can be perceived as an adaptation of Shakespeare and each workshop will involve practical exploration of diverse artists, including comedians, filmmakers, physical theatre companies and rappers. You’ll engage in the adaptation process and produce your own creative responses to Shakespeare’s work.