MUSTHEAT 3001 - Music Theatre Performance 3A
North Terrace Campus - Semester 1 - 2025
-
General Course Information
Course Details
Course Code MUSTHEAT 3001 Course Music Theatre Performance 3A Coordinating Unit Elder Conservatorium of Music Term Semester 1 Level Undergraduate Location/s North Terrace Campus Units 3 Contact 8 hours per week Available for Study Abroad and Exchange N Prerequisites MUSTHEAT 2002 Restrictions Available to BMusTheatre students only Assessment Continuous criteria based observations within the classroom and tutorial situation 10%, Practical Presentation: Voice 20%, Tap technical assessment 20%, Jazz technical assessment 20%, Acting Text Analysis & Showing 30% Course Staff
Course Coordinator: Erin James
George Torbay
E-mail: george.torbay@adelaide.edu.au
Phone: 0421 245 665
Location: Schulz Building (Level 11, Room 11.16)
Availability: M-F, 0900-1700
Course Tutors
Craig Behenna E-mail:
0402 321 076
Phone:Availability: M, W, Class times only
Carla Centofanti
E-mail: carla.cento@live.com.au
Phone: 0403 196 942
Availability: M, 0900-1300
Martin Cheney
E-mail: martin.cheney@gmail.com
Phone: 0422 609 357
Availability: M-F, 0900-1700
Dr. Terry Crawford
E-mail:Phone: 0434 331 061
Availability: Tues 0900 - 1330, Thurs 1330 - 1700, Fri 0900 - 1300
Deanna Farnell E-mail:
Phone: 0424 044 043
Availability: W 0900 - 1430, F 0900 - 1700
Rosie Hosking E-mail:
Phone: 0419 822 890
Availability: T, 1600 - 1800
Erin James E-mail:
Phone: 0415 352 304
Availability: F, 1400-1700
Peter Johns
Zoë Komazec E-mail:
Phone: 0431 418 421
Availability: Wednesdays 9am - 11:30am
Dale March E-mail:
Phone: 0413 221 546
Availability: Wednesdays 1pm - 6pm, Thursdays 9am - 1pm
Martine Quigley
E-mail: m@stylestation.com.au
Phone: 0437 143 153
Availability: M & W, 0900-1300
Joseph Simons
E-mail: j.simons@adelaide.edu.au
Phone: 0432 498 020
Availability: M-F, 0900-1700
Paul Sinkinson
E-mail:Phone: 0413 011 964
Availability: Tues 0900 - 1330, Thurs 1330 - 1700, Fri 0900 - 1300
Anna Steen
E-mail: anna.s.steen@gmail.com
Phone: 0418 863 587
Availability: Tuesdays 0900 - 1330, Thursdays 1330 - 1700
Roel Vorrbij E-mail:
0450 225 231
Phone:Availability: W, F, 1300-1730
Dr. James Whiting E-mail:
Phone: 0417 764 970
Availability: W, F, 1300-1730
Course Timetable
The full timetable of all activities for this course can be accessed from .
-
Learning Outcomes
Course Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
1 Understand the basic technical requirements and physical characteristics of tap and jazz dance styles within a theatrical context 2 Develop strength, coordination and rhythm, and experience the body as an expressive instrument 3 Identify idiosyncratic, habituated physical and vocal patterns and establish an understanding of vocal physiology and its application to performance 4 Recognise and apply improvisational techniques to develop imagination, the principles of play, developing spontaneity and stimulating an awareness of others 5 Define the proper care of a performer’s physical instrument, and apply safe techniques to explore the alignment, posture, stamina, flexibility and strength of your body in dance, acting and vocalisation. University Graduate Attributes
This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attribute(s) specified below:
University Graduate Attribute Course Learning Outcome(s) Attribute 1: Deep discipline knowledge and intellectual breadth
Graduates have comprehensive knowledge and understanding of their subject area, the ability to engage with different traditions of thought, and the ability to apply their knowledge in practice including in multi-disciplinary or multi-professional contexts.
1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Attribute 2: Creative and critical thinking, and problem solving
Graduates are effective problems-solvers, able to apply critical, creative and evidence-based thinking to conceive innovative responses to future challenges.
1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Attribute 3: Teamwork and communication skills
Graduates convey ideas and information effectively to a range of audiences for a variety of purposes and contribute in a positive and collaborative manner to achieving common goals.
3, 4 Attribute 4: Professionalism and leadership readiness
Graduates engage in professional behaviour and have the potential to be entrepreneurial and take leadership roles in their chosen occupations or careers and communities.
1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Attribute 5: Intercultural and ethical competency
Graduates are responsible and effective global citizens whose personal values and practices are consistent with their roles as responsible members of society.
1, 3, 4, 5 Attribute 8: Self-awareness and emotional intelligence
Graduates are self-aware and reflective; they are flexible and resilient and have the capacity to accept and give constructive feedback; they act with integrity and take responsibility for their actions.
1, 2, 3, 4, 5 -
Learning Resources
Required Resources
1. Hagen, U. “A Challenge for the Actor”(1991)
2. Rodenburg, P. “The Actor Speaks” (2000)St. Martin’s Griffin
3. Mamet, D. “True and False Heresy and Common Sense for the Actor” (Vintage Books, 1997)
4.
5. Berry, Cicely, The Actor and the Text, Applause, Revised ed. 2000Recommended Resources
- Deer, J., Dal Vera, R. (2016). Character analysis (pp. 110-131). In Acting in Musical Theatre: a comprehensive course (2nd ed.). Routledge.
- Bovell, A. “When the Rain Stops Falling”. (Currency Press)
- Bovell, A. “Speaking in Tongues”. (Currency Press)
- Gow, M. “Away”. (Currency Press)
- Cornelius, P. “SHIT”. (Currency Press)
- Cornelius, P. “LOVE”. (Currency Press)
- Katz, L. “Return to Earth” & “Neighbourhood Watch (Currency Press)
- Speyer, L-M. “TickTickBoom” (Australian Script Centre)
- Mulvany, K. “Jasper Jones” (Currency Press)
- Kenna, P. “A Hard God” (Currency Press)
- Kilpatrick, F. “Terrestrial” (Australian Script Centre)
- Williamson, D. “The Removalists” (Currency Press)
- Steel, E. “Euphoria” (Performance Draft 2021)
- McLean, C. “The River” (Australian Script Centre 2017)
- Enright, N., Monjo, J. “Cloudstreet” (Currency Press 1999)
- Kalnejais, R. “Babyteeth” (Currency Press 2012)
Online Learning
Course documents, including the Course Profile and assignments will be available on MyUni.
-
Learning & Teaching Activities
Learning & Teaching Modes
All music theatre students must undertake the Music Theatre Performance course. It is a skills-based practical course focussed on the three areas of acting technique, voice production and dance skills. This includes key areas of BALLET, TAP and JAZZ dance, ACTING technique as well as scene work, VOICE theory and production and in Third Year, Industry. As such, all classes are workshop style where attendance is critical for skills development.
Workload
The information below is provided as a guide to assist students in engaging appropriately with the course requirements.
The information below is provided as a guide to assist students in engaging appropriately with the course requirements.
Acting: 2 x 2 hour workshop each week
Industry: 1 x 2 hour workshop each week
Tap Dance: 1 x 1 hour workshop each week
Jazz Dance: 1 x 1 hour workshop each weekIn addition to the listed contact hours per week, It is anticipated that students would spend 4-6 hours per week in preparing for workshops, preparing assignments and undertaking required readings.
Learning Activities Summary
Students are expected to maintain 100% attendance at all classes. See below for penalties. Independent Practice Students must prepare and practise all repertoire, technical exercises and other material assigned by their lecturers and arrive for each session fully prepared Class Activity All classes are practically based skill development. It is essential for growth and development that there is active participation at each session.
Out of Class Activity Acting and Voice will require students to present to the University community a showing of their semester’s work. These showings usually take place in the final week of classes or in Week 13.
Specific Course Requirements
Specific dance wear and rehearsal ‘blacks’ will be quired for all classes. Students will be given this information prior to the first class with clear instructions and guidelines.
Industry class will require time spent within a recording studio for the VOICEOVER reel creation. -
Assessment
The University's policy on Assessment for Coursework Programs is based on the following four principles:
- Assessment must encourage and reinforce learning.
- Assessment must enable robust and fair judgements about student performance.
- Assessment practices must be fair and equitable to students and give them the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned.
- Assessment must maintain academic standards.
Assessment Summary
Assessment Task Task Type Weighting % Learning Outcome(s) Acting:
- Weekly practical exercises
- Essay
- Presentation
Formative and Summative 40% 1,2,3,4,5 Dance:
- Tap Dance Assessment
- Jazz Dance Assessment
Summative 40% 1,2,3,4,5 Industry:
- Weekly engagement & preparation
- Written Reflection
- Voice Reel Task
Formative and Summative 20% 1,2,3,4,5 Assessment Related Requirements
Participation: Active and positive participation in 100% of workshops is expected. Students will need to seek approval from the Head of Music Theatre for any absence. This process is clearly explained in the Music Theatre Handbook in MyUni.
Assessment Detail
Assessment - ACTING #1: Weekly Rehearsal Practice and Achievements
Weighting:
40%
Due date:
Tuesday 28 May, 2024
Task description:
Students will be assessed on their preparation, class engagement and development as a performer. Criteria include:
- The capacity to conduct independent research into a wide variety of suitable scenes, monologues and plays.
- The ability to prepare, memorise and perform a variety of scene work.
- The ability to make clear, emotionally connected, brave, and imaginative choices.
- The capacity to receive and apply direction in a professional manner.
- The ability to retain and build on notes through the rehearsal process.
- The ability to work effectively in an ensemble environment.
- The willingness to offer insightful contributions to group discussions in response to required readings.
- The ability to engage in productive, insightful observations during the rehearsal process.
Assessment - ACTING #2: Reflective Essay
Weighting:
20%
Due date:
Essays will be submitted online and are due by Friday 31 May by 11:59pm
Task description:
Instructions:
You will compose a 1300-1500 word essay reflecting on your work across the whole semester and aiming for a frank and honest self-critique of your readiness for professional work.
You may cite your journal entries, so long as there is an overarching academic narrative ‘voice’ linking those citations and reflecting on them. What were the moments of inspiration or epiphany? When did pins drop? When did you learn something significant from watching a classmate’s work? When did you let yourself down? When did you positively surprise yourself? These types of questions will lead you. Please remember this kind of writing is not intended as academic ‘box-ticking’. You can choose to make it that, but you can also choose to make it vital, honest and extremely productive. It is that energy, that voice of sincerity and muscularity that will be found in the best of the writing. Please seek any further clarification or guidance from me in relation to this, as in all.
Your essay should include:
-
-
- A brief summary of key principles introduced during the work of the whole semester;
- Citations from your journal (properly referenced), and at least two other citations from prescribed readings relating your work;
- Accurate use of the APA referencing method (see ).
- A reference list.
-
Assessment - ACTING #3: Scene Presentation for Showreel
Weighting:
40%
Due date:
Tuesday 28 May, 2024
Task description:
Instructions:
You will perform both a short scene study and monologue. Final scene partnerships will be assigned by the lecturer and scenes/monologues will be rehearsed both during and outside of class hours. Students will be assessed prior to the recording of scenes in an ‘in class’ presentation.
Assessment - DANCE #1: Tap
Weighting:
50%
Due date:
Wednesday 29 May 2024 (Week 12)
Task description:
Title: Practical Examination
Instructions: Each student (regardless of level) will learn and present an unseen choreographic combination that include ‘option up’ variations which the student may choose to present. Students will also be required to present their own 2x8-count choreographic combination without musical accompaniment incorporating dynamics and various rhythms. Students will also be tested on terminology; required to identify and/or demonstrate a selected tap step.
Marking: Technique & Quality of Sound 40%
Musicality 25%
Performance Style 20%
Commitment & Professionalism 10%
Terminology 5%
Assessment - DANCE #2: Jazz
Weighting:
50%
Due date:
Thursday 30 May (Week 12)
Task description:
Title: Practical Examination
Instructions: Each student (regardless of level) will present a series of technical exercises across the room demonstrating strength, flexibility, and coordination. These exercises will be rehearsed in class time and include ‘option up’ variations which the student may choose to present. You will also learn a new (unseen) choreographic combination to perform.
Marking:
Alignment & Control 40%
Coordination 25%
Style & Dynamic Range 25%
Commitment & Professionalism 10%
Assessment - VOICE #1: Weekly Engagement, focus, enthusiasm, and commitment
Weighting:
60%
Due date:
Wednesday 5 June, 2024
Task description:
This task includes punctuality, focus, attendance, enthusiasm and commitment. Assessment - VOICE #2: Written Reflection
Weighting:
20%
Due date:
Submission deadline
1) March 27;
2) May 1;
3) May 29.
Task description:
You will submit
1) a log of at least 10 voice-over scripts, hard or soft copy;
2) a hard copy of a professional cv of an actor taken from an agency website that is in the format and layout you wish to adopt, along with a draft version of your own cv in that format and layout;
3) a final draft of your cv.
Submission deadline:
1) March 27;
2) May 1;
3) May 29.
Assessment - VOICE #3: Voice Reel Task
Weighting:
20%
Due date:
All work will be completely by week of 27nd May, but the completed edit of the voice-reel will likely not be done until a few weeks later.
Task description:
Instructions: Research and prepare as per instructions (to be delivered prior to commencement and in your first week of studio work) materials you wish to work with and incorporate into a voice reel you would like to create. Bring these (your log of scripts) to the recording studio to work with your lecturer and the producer / audio engineer in the creation of your own voice reel.
Submission
ALL MUSIC THEATRE ASSESSMENTS INCUR A 10% PER DAY PENALTY FOR LATE SUBMISSIONS. Extensions are only granted prior to the assessment due date.
Late assignment policy: Extensions are only granted when supporting documentation can be provided and then, and only then, by arrangement with the course lecturer prior to the due date and time. Extensions will not be granted under any other circumstance. Assessed work that is submitted late (after the due date and time) will not be examined for assessment or feedback. In the case of illness this will require a medical certificate, and in the case of personal (non-medical) circumstances you will need a letter of support from a University Student Counsellor. For further information please refer to the following website: http://www.adelaide.edu.au/counselling_centre/
Course Grading
Grades for your performance in this course will be awarded in accordance with the following scheme:
M10 (Coursework Mark Scheme) Grade Mark Description FNS Fail No Submission F 1-49 Fail P 50-64 Pass C 65-74 Credit D 75-84 Distinction HD 85-100 High Distinction CN Continuing NFE No Formal Examination RP Result Pending Further details of the grades/results can be obtained from Examinations.
Grade Descriptors are available which provide a general guide to the standard of work that is expected at each grade level. More information at Assessment for Coursework Programs.
Final results for this course will be made available through .
-
Student Feedback
The University places a high priority on approaches to learning and teaching that enhance the student experience. Feedback is sought from students in a variety of ways including on-going engagement with staff, the use of online discussion boards and the use of Student Experience of Learning and Teaching (SELT) surveys as well as GOS surveys and Program reviews.
SELTs are an important source of information to inform individual teaching practice, decisions about teaching duties, and course and program curriculum design. They enable the University to assess how effectively its learning environments and teaching practices facilitate student engagement and learning outcomes. Under the current SELT Policy (http://www.adelaide.edu.au/policies/101/) course SELTs are mandated and must be conducted at the conclusion of each term/semester/trimester for every course offering. Feedback on issues raised through course SELT surveys is made available to enrolled students through various resources (e.g. MyUni). In addition aggregated course SELT data is available.
-
Student Support
- Academic Integrity for Students
- Academic Support with Maths
- Academic Support with writing and study skills
- Careers Services
- Library Services for Students
- LinkedIn Learning
- Student Life Counselling Support - Personal counselling for issues affecting study
- Students with a Disability - Alternative academic arrangements
-
Policies & Guidelines
This section contains links to relevant assessment-related policies and guidelines - all university policies.
- Academic Credit Arrangements Policy
- Academic Integrity Policy
- Academic Progress by Coursework Students Policy
- Assessment for Coursework Programs Policy
- Copyright Compliance Policy
- Coursework Academic Programs Policy
- Intellectual Property Policy
- IT Acceptable Use and Security Policy
- Modified Arrangements for Coursework Assessment Policy
- Reasonable Adjustments to Learning, Teaching & Assessment for Students with a Disability Policy
- Student Experience of Learning and Teaching Policy
- Student Grievance Resolution Process
-
Fraud Awareness
Students are reminded that in order to maintain the academic integrity of all programs and courses, the university has a zero-tolerance approach to students offering money or significant value goods or services to any staff member who is involved in their teaching or assessment. Students offering lecturers or tutors or professional staff anything more than a small token of appreciation is totally unacceptable, in any circumstances. Staff members are obliged to report all such incidents to their supervisor/manager, who will refer them for action under the university's student鈥檚 disciplinary procedures.
The 成人大片 is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The 成人大片 therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.