NAME: Zoe Brakes
COURSE: BA (Hons) Costume with Performance Design
UNIT TITLE: Self Directed Project
REF. NO./LEVEL: CSS518
WEIGHTING: 2.0
DURATION: 9 Weeks
HOURS OF STUDY: 300 Hours
Unit Leader: Adele Keeley
DESCRIPTION:
For my Self Directed Project I am to design the set and costumes for the Arts University’s autumn production of ‘Top Girls’ by Caryl Churchill. I am to research the period in which the production is set; covering the 1980’s for which the majority of the play is set, but also the year c. 850, and the 12th, 13th, 14th and 19th centuries, concentrating on the fashions of the time but also the stories surrounding each of the famous characters from the past. I will then design costumes that I feel will portray the necessary characteristics to the audience but also maintaining the surrealism created through the scene.
I will then design a set to compliment the costumes and best aid the performance, by creating a set box I will be able to communicate these ideas more thoroughly. I will devise a set that is easily adapted for each scene change. However this project only requires a consideration into the set design as this will be completed into level six of my studies, so the set box will be built to mainly grasp the idea of space. Throughout this project I will be working with a Director aiming to realise her vision and my own.
I chose to work on this production so as to develop my understanding of the role within theatre. I hope that by taking on such a responsible role it will improve my confidence throughout this project. My aim is to be a sort after costume designer within the theatre world, I feel this project will teach me a lot about the professional environment and prepare me for my desired role. My past projects have shown my strengths in designing costumes and a set that work together; I would like to further this achievement by realising the designs onto the stage for performance. I believe this assignment will improve upon my time management skills and teach me the limitations within theatre but also what is achievable.
Throughout this project I will have to complete a supporting sketchbook to show my thought processes, my research, my experimental work and my designs; including findings from museum and theatre visits, internet and library research and fabric sourcing trips. I will have also to complete a set box and white card model of my set design, communicating rough scene changes and supported with possible ideas into the colour, theme and style, but ultimately the use of space. Alongside the practical pieces to this project I will create and add to my blog, where I will update my findings through research, inspirations, my tutorials and designs.
Aims:
A1 To provide opportunities for self-initiated, autonomous learning
and develop the ability to plan time and work independently
A2 To provide opportunity to study the contextual development of costume and performance design
A3 To further develop the creative, intellectual and practical applications of research and contextualisation within a self initiated environment
A4 To propose, develop and evaluate professional aspirations through professional development planning
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this unit you will be able to:
LO1 Identify and define the context for the development of your own work towards professional aspirations
LO2 Demonstrate an understanding of the development of Costume with performance design
`
LO3 Have developed the creative, intellectual and practical applications of research and contextualisation
LO4 Consolidate and demonstrate professional aspirations and planning through your Progress File
Assessment Requirements:
For assessment I will complete and hand in a sketchbook displaying my various findings through a range of research methods and experimental work. I will also submit a blog reflecting on my development throughout the project, a set box and white card model displaying a consideration into the set design and final designs for my costumes supported by a final written evaluation (750 words) evidenced in my Progress File 100%
Each assessment requirement must be passed at a minimum grade of 40% to successfully complete the unit
Assessment Criteria (specific criteria related to the learning outcomes and linked to the statement of generic assessment criteria matrix):
- Evidence of knowledge of contextual and theoretical issues – The level to which you have considered the context of your project and evidenced that to your body of work (LO1, LO2)
- Evidence of understanding through synthesis and development – The application and extend to which research has informed decision-making and project development together with the appropriate management of time (LO2, LO3, LO4)
- Evidence of evaluation and reflection – The extent to which you have reflected on the progress of your project and used it to inform personal development planning (LO4)
- Evidence of realisation through the communication of ideas - The presentation of your work and the level to which specialist knowledge has been applied, communicated and evidenced (LO3, LO4)
Reference Material
This will vary according to the needs of the individual project. You will define Reference Material through personal investigation and consultation with staff and list it in your Learning Agreement.
Aston, E. F. (2003). Feminist Views on the English Stage: Women Playwrights, 1990- 2000. Cambridge University Press. UK
Case, S.E. (1988). Feminism and Theatre. Routledge. London
Churchill, C. et al. (1991). Top Girls Methuen student edition. Methuen Publishing Ltd. London.
Dromgoole, D. (2000). The Full Room An A-Z of Contemporary Playwrighting. Methuen Publishing Ltd. London
King, K. (2001). Modern Dramatists. Routledge. London
Peacock, J. (2007). Fashion Since 1900 The Complete Sourcebook. Thames and Hudson Ltd. UK
