The aim of this course is to provide opportunity for an exploration of the development in theatre history of the phenomenon of the stage designer. The structure of the course will be an historical overview which will focus on the work of specific designers and influential figures who have contributed to the theory and practice of set and costume design and to the creation of the twentieth century concept of the stage designer. The course will also cover basic design principles as they pertain to various types of stage spaces and to the human body. Students will be given opportunity to put theory into practice through the construction of a scenographic model.

Students should be able to

1. express in oral and written form an understanding of the key concepts associated with the historical development of  modern scenography.
2. identify and critically analyse the key characteristics of modern scenographic practice.
3. carry out research to select and combine material in order to question and analyse key concepts raised in the course.
4. make appropriate design methodology choices for creating a design for a selected text/theatre space.
5. apply theoretical and empirical data to the practice of scenographic design.

Courses are designed to provide students with the opportunity to study theory through its practical application.

Two 2,000 word essays (25% each), practical component and workshop contribution (40%) and slide test (10%).

4 hours per week: one 1-hour lecture, one 1-hour tutorial and one 2 hour workshop.