Course detail

Performativity Theory

FaVU-STUPAcad. year: 2024/2025

The course Theory of Performativity is loosely related to the course Analysis of Performance taught in the winter semester. This semester will focus primarily on Richard Schechner's theoretical work, which draws on both the author's deep interest in the subject of ritual and his practical experience in theatre and the performing arts. In the lecture part, key themes of Schechner's theory of performance will be presented. In the seminars, students will present papers prepared by studying selected chapters of the recommended literature. Learners are encouraged*to choose topics related to their own creative interests for their papers.

Language of instruction

Czech

Number of ECTS credits

Mode of study

Not applicable.

Guarantor

prof. akad. soch. Tomáš Ruller

Department

Department of Art History and Theory (KTDU)

Entry knowledge

Graduation from the Analysis of Performativity course is recommended.

Rules for evaluation and completion of the course

A condition for the award of credit is the presentation of a paper (approx. 30 min.) with the use of visual accompaniment, as well as the submission of a seminar paper of approx. 10 standard pages.

A minimum of 50% attendance is required. Any justified lower attendance is compensated in the appropriate proportion by the preparation of additional seminar work submitted during the examination period.

Aims

The aim of the course is to introduce students to the theory of performativity as it is anchored in the discipline of performance studies and specifically in the work of Richard Schechner.

Upon completion of the course, learners will be able to:

- Identify and apply the basic concepts and categories of performativity theory in thinking about artistic practice;

- describe the means used to realize a specific performance artwork;

- identify current aesthetic trends in performance art;

- compare the different approaches of selected performance expressions;

- apply the basic terminology of the discipline in writing an academic text.

Study aids

Not applicable.

Prerequisites and corequisites

Not applicable.

Basic literature

SCHECHNER, Richard, BRADY Sara. Performance studies: an introduction. 3rd ed. New York: Routledge, 2013. ISBN 9780415502306. (EN)
SCHECHNER, Richard. Performance theory. Rev. and expanded ed. London: Routledge, 2003. ISBN 0415314550. (EN)

Type of course unit

Lecture

26 hod., optionally

Teacher / Lecturer

prof. akad. soch. Tomáš Ruller

Syllabus

1. What is Performace Studies ? What is Performance ?
2. Ritual
3. Play
4. Performativity
5. Performing
6. Performance Processes
7. Poetics of Performance
8. Actuality and Score
9. Ritual and Transformance
10. Global and Intercultural
11. Selective Inattention and Energy
12. Approaches and Aesthetics