Handbook : Unit informationEdith Cowan University

School: Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts

This unit information may be updated and amended immediately prior to semester. To ensure you have the correct outline, please check it again at the beginning of semester.

• Unit Title

  Movement Fundamentals

• Unit Code

  PMA2005

• Year

  2016

• Enrolment Period

  2

• Version

  2

• Credit Points

  15

• Full Year Unit

  N

• Mode of Delivery

  On Campus
  

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Description

This unit introduces students to some of the fundamental principles of movement training for performance. These include working safely with the body, developing strength, flexibility and balance, working with energy and presence, developing a range of rhythmic dynamics in movement, observing limiting physical habits and extending the performer's range of movement to unlock creativity. They will explore a variety of physical exercises and approaches to extend their natural range of motion and broaden their creative choices. Students examine how common, fundamental principles of movement can underpin a broad range of styles and genres from naturalistic acting to physical theatre. In weekly practical classes students will explore the importance of repetition in movement training, develop their observation skills, and practice articulating their experience of movement. Students learn to use a journal to facilitate critical reflection. They are expected to undertake personal practice between classes. In reading and research there is an emphasis on international, intercultural perspectives and on the ability to inform practical experience with theoretical knowledge.

Co-Requisite Rule

Students must be enrolled in course Y97

Equivalent Rule

Unit was previously coded PAM2111

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. Adapt to different approaches or styles of movement training.
2. Design and conduct a movement workshop for their peer group that interrogates a particular theme or aspect of movement training.
3. Design and conduct a safe physical warm-up for themselves or their peers.
4. Observe and begin to self-correct postural imbalances or habitual tensions.

Unit Content

1. Different approaches to form based training.
2. Preparing the body to work physically.
3. Rhythm and Dynamics.
4. The neutral body.
5. The performer's energy and presence.
6. Training bodily awareness through improvisational structures.
7. Training through set, codified movement forms.

Additional Learning Experience Information

Workshops and seminars.

Assessment

GS1 GRADING SCHEMA 1 Used for standard coursework units

Students please note: The marks and grades received by students on assessments may be subject to further moderation. All marks and grades are to be considered provisional until endorsed by the relevant Board of Examiners.

Text References

• ^ Marshall, L. (2008). The body speaks: Performance and physical expression. (2nd ed.). London: Methuen.
• ^ Barba, E., & Savarese, N (2005). A dictionary of theatre anthropology: The secret art of the performer. (2nd ed.). London & NY: Routledge.
• Potter, N. (Ed.). (2002). Movement for actors. NY: Allworth.
• Lecoq, J. (2009). The moving body. London: Methuen.

Journal References

• The Drama Review.
• Contemporary Theatre Review.
• Performance Research.
• Australasian Drama Studies.
• Theatre, Dance and Performance Training.

^ Mandatory reference

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