Aims

The acquisition of a basic understanding of the history, aesthetics, theory and practice of scenography and theatre architecture. Understanding scenography through the concrete experience of designing and producing model scenery for a particular text.

Main themes

The course is held over two academic years. One year is devoted to theory. After an outline of the history and aesthetics of the theatrical location, this will involve an analysis of modern developments in scenography, in terms of its use of the place of representation and its representation of the places needed for the action of the theatre to be conducted. The second year is essentially practical in nature. Students will be required to design the stage-set for a theatre text of their choice. The various phases of design (analysis, documentation, creation) will result in the production of a model.

Content and teaching methods

Theoretical section : Teacher-led course. Exchanges and discussions. Personal work by the student.
Practical section : examination of a number of seminal examples of scenography. Production of a stage design and creation of a model by small groups of students. Collective or individual exchanges between teacher and students. Although it is an advantage, the ability to draw is not essential. However, students will be expected to gain appropriate outside help or acquire the skills of plastic expression that will enable them to produce their model.

Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

Theoretical section : Students' knowledge will be tested under time-restricted conditions. A personal work.
Practical section : criteria for evaluation will relate to the student's commitment to the work, his analysis of the processes, the degree of accomplishment of his work, the defence of the choices he has made and his participation in discussions.

Other credits in programs