Module Details

Module Code: MUSC6023
Title: Acting for Musical Theatre 1
Long Title: Acting for Musical Theatre 1
NFQ Level: Fundamental
Valid From: Semester 1 - 2023/24 ( September 2023 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 2121 - Music & Performing Arts
Module Delivered in: 1 programme(s)
Module Description: This module introduces the learner to the fundamentals of actor training, aiming to free the voice and body and introduce the learner to the fundamentals of good vocal and physical use. Particular emphasis is placed on the use of improvisation as a stimulus for performance.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 embody the fundamentals of relaxation, physical alignment and breath support
LO2 engage in and lead a vocal warm-up
LO3 show an understanding of the structure of a natural, balanced and energised body
LO4 use improvisation as a basis for creating performance
LO5 explain and document acting coursework
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named MTU module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.
No requirements listed
 
Indicative Content
Physical Alignment
Relaxation and alignment, including an introduction to the work of practitioners such as Kristin Linklater, and the Alexander Technique. Exercises will focus on removing habitual tension so that the muscles are free to respond to impulse without the short-circuiting created by habit, and discover new possibilities for the body in performance.
Freeing the Natural Breath
Exercises aimed at freeing the voice, overcoming obstacles, range and power, and the breathing apparatus, including the development of a vocal warm-up routine
Improvisation
The practical techniques of practitioners such as Keith Johnstone including status, spontaneity and narrative skills
Theatre Games
Innovative use of games in actor training and performance from practitioners such as Clive Barker and Jessica Swale
Reflection/Blogging
Weekly journal entries documenting process and outcomes of this work
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Reflective Journal % of Total Mark 30
Timing Every Week Learning Outcomes 5
Assessment Description
Weekly reflective blog
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 30
Timing Every Week Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4,5
Assessment Description
Evaluation of class work
Assessment Type Performance Evaluation % of Total Mark 40
Timing Sem End Learning Outcomes 1,3,4
Assessment Description
Showcase of work at semester end
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Coursework Only
This module is reassessed solely on the basis of re-submitted coursework. There is no repeat written examination.

The University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecturer-Supervised Learning (Contact) Contact Two atelier class sessions Every Week 4.00 4
Independent Learning Non Contact personal research and practice Every Week 3.00 3
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 4.00
This module has no Part Time workload.
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Kirstin Linklater. (2006), Freeing the Natural Voice, Hollywood, CA, [ISBN: 1854599712].
  • Howard Barker. (2010), Theatre Games: A New Approach to Drama Training, Methuen, London, [ISBN: 1408125196].
  • Viola Spoonin. (2018), Improvisation for the Theater: A Handbook of Teaching and Directing Techniques, 3rd. Franklin Classics, [ISBN: 034319953X].
Supplementary Book Resources
  • James Alberger. (2019), The Art of Voice Acting, 1st. Focal Press, p.516, [ISBN: 1138391611].
  • Cecily Berry. (1991), Voice and the Actor, Wiley, London, [ISBN: 0020415559].
  • Houseman, B. (2002), Finding Your Voice, Routledge, London, [ISBN: 1854596594].
  • Johnstone, Keith. (2007), Impro- Improvisation for the Theatre, Methuen, London, [ISBN: 9780713687019].
  • Jessica Swale. (2016), Drama Games for Rehearsal, Nick Hern Books, [ISBN: 1848423462].
  • Jeannette Nelson. (2017), The Voice Exercise Book: A Guide to Healthy and Effictive Voice Use, London, [ISBN: 1848426542].
  • Miranda Tufnell. (2014), Body Space Image: Notes towards Improvisation and Performance, New. Dance Books Ltd, [ISBN: 1852730412].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
Other Resources
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_GMUTH_8 Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Musical Theatre 1 Mandatory