Pantomime WSL/ATL/Pant-Z
Topics covered during the classes:
First semester
1. basic concepts in pantomime: the pantomime step (forward, en face, backwards, up stairs, up a ladder), movement (inward, outward, sustained, impulsive), counterpoint, the power and meaning of gesture;
2. the concept of identification: identification with space, with an object, with an animal;
3. physical and acting training, elements of physical comedy and slapstick;
4. improvisations in space, applying the tools of mime learned in a vista etudes;
Second semester
5. developing specific types/characters on stage: analysis of means of expression;
6. the concept of multi-character roles, utilising elements of the grotesque;
7. dialogue in the pantomime style – movement duets, group scenes;
8. creating theatrical imagery through the body, costume, sound, collective gesture and lighting;
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
In terms of knowledge (W), the student:
K_W05 possesses knowledge of the technical and artistic means of acting and movement to the extent necessary to realise their own artistic projects;
SALT_W03 understands how to utilise and blend the stylistic conventions of puppet theatre and live theatre in order to achieve a contemporary artistic expression;
In terms of skills (U), the student:
K_U01 utilises their full creative potential by applying the universality of creativity across all spheres of their activity; as an artistic individual, they create and realise their own creative projects;
K_U05 works for the benefit of the team, including by taking a leading role within it; strives to reach agreement on developing a shared direction for the creation of a work; is prepared to engage in debate with fellow creators
K_U07 applies acting techniques for voice and body training without compromising their health
SALT_U03 has mastered technical skills exercises that enable continuous professional development through independent work;
SALT_U04 is able to realise their own artistic concepts using technical and craft skills in the fields of both puppet theatre and dramatic theatre;
In the area of social competences:
K_K02 understands and recognises the need to develop and expand their own knowledge, skills and abilities; shares this knowledge and utilises it in teamwork on artistic projects;
K_K05 consciously draws on their own energy, intuition, emotions and imagination in their creative work; effectively manages stress in both individual and team-based work;
K_K06 carries out self-assessment and offers constructive feedback to others; regards critical feedback as inspiration for seeking new solutions;
SALT_K01 operates artistically whilst adhering to all ethical principles applicable within the world of live theatre and other artistic activities utilising the acquired competences;
Assessment criteria
1st semester – assessment
Preparation for classes – 40%
Engagement, concentration and creativity during classes – 30%
Ability to perform the exercise – 20%
Independent work – 10%
Final assessment performance – in the form of a short, individual etude (internal/open performance)
Two unexcused absences are permitted. In the event of a greater number of unexcused absences, the student may not be permitted to sit the assessment.
Second semester – assessed pass
A performance in the form of a duo or group pantomime etude, incorporating elements from work carried out over the two semesters. Assessment is based on attendance (40%), artistic and technical achievement (30%), commitment and concentration during classes (20%) and independent work (10%).
Two unexcused absences are permitted (as stipulated in the AT Study Regulations). In the event of a greater number of unexcused absences, the student will not receive a pass. In the event of a greater number of excused absences related to participation in workshops, festivals or other commitments that take up the student’s time during classes, these absences should be made up by completing tasks in a format agreed with the course tutor. Otherwise, the final mark may be reduced due to the student’s failure to fulfil the core curriculum requirements.
Bibliography
1. *The Theatre of Jean-Louis Barrault*, Jean-Louis Barrault, Flammarion, Paris 1959
2. *On the Art of Mime*, Etienne Decroux, PIW, Warsaw 1967
3. *The Poetic Body*, Jacques Lecoq, Wrocław 2011
4. *I See My Theatre as Spherical*, edited by A. Charkot, J. Bajda and M. Gubler, Henryk Tomaszewski Wrocław Pantomime Theatre, Wrocław 2016
5. *Deburau: The Immortal Pierrot*, Jaroslav Švehla, PIW, Warsaw 1983
6. *50 Years of the Wrocław Pantomime Theatre*, Wrocław Pantomime Theatre, Wrocław 2006