About Devised Performance, MA - at University of Winchester
Devised Performance at Winchester is an innovative practice-based programme intended to build upon the knowledge and experience gained at undergraduate level by students in performing arts and drama related programmes.
Entry requirements: Normally a first or second class Honours degree in a related subject or professional experience in the area of study
If English is not your first language: IELTS 6.5 (including 6.5 in academic writing) or a TOEFL score of 575 (paper-based) or 232 (computer-based) or equivalent
Application process: UKPASS (full-time applicants only) or Direct Entry Application Form (part-time applicants only)
Programme ContentThe aim of the course is to develop strong independent performance makers, who have knowledge of the professional performing arts sector and the ability to market themselves to that sector. It is intended to develop creative and critically reflective practitioners.
Study focuses on contemporary performance making, employing a range of devising strategies and processes in which the student experiences a range of performance contexts, for example, site-based devising; devising from text; devising for theatre; devising with a director and/or dramaturg. The practice is underpinned by student reflection on both the devising process and the performance outcome, placing the work in the context of current contemporary professional practice.
Emphasis is placed upon the performer as creator exploring and defining his/her own work. A large part of the programme explores collaborative practice and an enthusiasm and commitment for the processes and demands of ensemble work is vital. However, there are opportunities for individual performance, as well as for students to explore their individual contribution to performance making, whether as performer, director, dramaturg or writer (amongst others).
ModulesStudents undertake six taught modules, four practice-based and two research-based, plus the independent project module.
Modules include:The introductory module Devising and the Performer consists of an intensive performance project and serves as an introduction to the programme. Students work collaboratively with an experienced professional practitioner to create a devised performance.
Advanced Approaches to Text and Performance Writing asks students to engage with devising from a range of texts. These include, but are not confined to, play texts. The module also exposes students to a range of different devising strategies, with which to approach making performance.
Devising and Site involves a specific site in Winchester being chosen, from which students create a performance event under the supervision of tutors. This module considers in depth how space is used and the ways in which body is employed in that space.
The module Advanced Performance Practice consists of a three week intensive devising project and represents the culmination of the group making process. Students work in supervised groups to negotiate and create a professional performance, designed for an appropriate performance context, to be performed to a public audience.
Creative Production – This module is designed to introduce and familiarise the students with the roles and functions of creative production and what factors are involved in the relationship between the performance practitioner and the creative producer.
The Research Methods and the Gateway to Independent Study modules underpin the Independent Project and are designed to equip students with the expertise to gather, analyse and organise the appropriate information and structures required to negotiate and successfully complete the Independent Project, as well as developing the reflective practice of students.
AssessmentAll taught modules, except the Research Methods module, will be assessed by portfolio. While this mode of assessment is most commonly found in art colleges, many of the qualities and advantages of the portfolio are transferable to performing arts. As in a fine art portfolio, examples of arts practice will be included in the portfolio. While live performances cannot be physically incorporated into a portfolio, their documentation can, and the performances themselves are considered as contributing to the overall portfolio mark.
Independent projectThis is a very significant part of the programme. It is negotiated between the student and the Programme Leader and allows the student to develop a portfolio of work, (creative manifesto, dissertation or performative essay), of which a significant part may be an independently devised performance plus reflection on the process and outcome. Each student is allocated a supervisor, whose expertise fits with the specific project. This element of the programme is designed to be of direct practical relevance to the onward career development of the graduating student.
CareersThe programme is designed to prepare the student to enter the field of contemporary performance practice as an emerging artist, either collaboratively or as an individual, operating within the diverse range of professional environments. In addition, students may wish to pursue a career in teaching or a related area, for example an education officer attached to a theatre or as director or dramaturg for a performance company. Students may also consider undertaking further study for a practice-based PhD or MPhil.
