Sign In With Google
Course Description
-
Course Name
Write Action: Introduction to Dramatic Writing
-
Host University
Kingston University
-
Location
London, England
-
Area of Study
Creative Writing, Radio - Television - Film, Theater
-
Language Level
Taught In English
-
Course Level Recommendations
Upper
ISA offers course level recommendations in an effort to facilitate the determination of course levels by credential evaluators.We advice each institution to have their own credentials evaluator make the final decision regrading course levels.
-
Credits
4 -
Recommended U.S. Semester Credits4
-
Recommended U.S. Quarter Units0
Hours & Credits
-
Overview
Course Content:
The module introduces students to the craft of writing dramatic scripts for stage, screen
and radio. Through a series of practical exercises, writing tasks and feedback students
will become familiar with key principles of dramatic writing that apply across the three
forms. A refined sense of how 'conflict' and 'action' build suspense, tension, humour or
pathos; of how to create characters that draw the audience's empathy; of the
importance of 'subtext' and of how to harness the scenographic dimension through stage
directions and settings, all contribute to the craft of a successful dramatic writer.Autumn Semester:
Students examine the principles and skills employed in the creation of new writing for
the stage. They are set weekly creative tasks, building up a portfolio of short scripts.Spring Semester:
Students explore how the general principles of playwriting are channelled into writing for
radio and screen. In the later part of the module, sessions involve group ?workshopping?
of students? individual scripts.Overall, topics covered include:
? characterisation and character
? conflict and action
? dramatic structure and story
? text and subtext
? physical action and stage directions
? settings
? an understanding of how scenographic elements such as staging, lighting,
costume contribute to meaning and effect
? an understanding of playwriting as a collaborative activity that also
involves the creativity of directors, designers, performers and othersTeaching:
Semester 1: 2 hour weekly workshops
Semester 2: Tutor-led sessionsAssessment:
STUDY OPTION 1:
? 750 word Rationale (20%): outlining intentions and preparation for final
submission
? Up to 2 pieces of dramatic writing (80%): total estimated performance time of 15
minutes
STUDY OPTION 2: 750 word rationale and 1 piece of dramatic writing for the stage.
STUDY OPTION 3: 2 pieces of dramatic writing for radio or screenStudy Option 1 = Whole Year
Study Option 2 = Autumn
Study Option 3 = Spring/summer
Course Disclaimer
Courses and course hours of instruction are subject to change.
Eligibility for courses may be subject to a placement exam and/or pre-requisites.
Some courses may require additional fees.
Credits earned vary according to the policies of the students' home institutions. According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, students must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by their home institutions, for the duration of the program.
Please reference fall and spring course lists as not all courses are taught during both semesters.
Please note that some courses with locals have recommended prerequisite courses. It is the student's responsibility to consult any recommended prerequisites prior to enrolling in their course.