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Unit of study_
VSAO5623: Advanced Opera Performance Stage 1
2024 unit information
This unit develops the primary communication tools of stagecraft, acting and movement as they apply to performing on the operatic stage. Surveying the major schools of acting, this unit develops and refines methodologies and strategies for establishing expert stage skills in opera performance, building the performer's role as expert and confident communicator. Skills in movement and movement style are facilitated by separate classes in dance. The unit is application based, allowing students to experiment with implementation of critical theoretical ideas in a performing environment. Much of the work of these courses is associated with rehearsal and performance of mainstage and chamber operas scheduled by SCM, in recognition of the crucial role these performances play in synthesizing the vocal, musical, linguistic, stylistic and dramatic threads undertaken in the Masters in Music Studies (Opera Performance). These skills are complemented by separate lectures in Opera History, which surveys the development of operatic style from the Florentine Camerata to contemporary Australian opera. NB: Students who have completed the Graduate Diploma (Opera) are exempt from Opera History. All new Masters of Music Studies (Opera Performance) students are required to complete this component of the Unit of Study.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Performance
| Code | VSAO5623 |
|---|---|
| Academic unit | Performance |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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None |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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None |
| Assumed knowledge:
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None |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. understand the terminology and processes involved in rehearsals for operatic performance
- LO2. understand and apply principles of ensemble performance to a range of contexts
- LO3. understand basic use of props and principles of costume wear for the operatic stage context
- LO4. understand and apply appropriate collegial behaviour in a rehearsal context
- LO5. develop a basic understanding of Commedia Dell'Arte and physical theatre styles appropriate to opera, including stage falls and combat where necessary
- LO6. develop your own personal style for inhabiting an operatic character onstage, based on the tools obtained in class in various methods
- LO7. become cognisant of the relationship between the creation of music and theatre onstage in the context of your own physicality in the mise-en-scene.
Unit availability
This section lists the session, attendance modes and locations the unit is available in. There is a unit outline for each of the unit availabilities, which gives you information about the unit including assessment details and a schedule of weekly activities.
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Modes of attendance (MoA)
This refers to the Mode of attendance (MoA) for the unit as it appears when you’re selecting your units in Sydney Student. Find more information about modes of attendance on our website.
