The course introduces a notation system for recording and analyzing theatrical performance in its many elements. Students gain experience in using a set of abstract symbols to describe such aspects of dramatic performance as movement, sound, light, space, props, makeup, and other elements. This gives a means of documentation and comparative analysis of dramatic performance across cultures.
It gives students a more complete understanding of music, both from a theoretical and historical perspective. It's a helpful visual aid in illustrating and solidifying musical concepts.
Video and audio recordings are a helpful record of live performances, but being able to notate performance aspects of the performance increases the longevity of it, giving a complete script of movement, words, music, tone and so on, that can be used to mount performances the same way without having to start from scratch. More time can then be spent on interpretation. Where video is not possible, there is still a record of the performance.
Notating a performance is a form of language. We know God as the Word and without the Word, there is no language, no learning, no life. It is the way we describe our experience, articulate concept, record and retrieve information. We follow Biblical example in learning the languages of performance in order to record drama as a valuable cultural identity.
Acquiring drama notation skills assist students as they seek to learn about and use drama in appropriate Christian settings to engage, encourage and empower.
Learning notation skills for drama performances allows recording and analysis in a variety of cultures and settings.
Having the skill to notate drama performances allows recording and analysis to take place in a variety of cultures and settings. An ability to notate performance in any culture provides more opportunities to interact with others dramatically and across cultures.
All observations, analysis and reflections are to enable the student to notate drama.
Assignments are hands-on life experience, reflective in nature, collaborative as much as possible. By acquiring notation skills, students are able to apply those skills to many ministerial opportunities.
