27114 - Scenography: Elements, Theory, History

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course the student: knows in depth the historical and constructive evolution of the scenography and of the scenic space in the West; is able to analyze specific themes, models and aesthetic principles of scenography and scenic space, contextualize them in a historical-anthropological perspective and develop them using methods, tools and documentation typical of scientific research; is able to research autonomously a topic using different document sources; knows how to critically interpret the relationship between ritual and performance, also in reference to extra-Western traditions.

Course contents

Spaces and relevant case studies

The course aims to investigate the evolution of the stage space and of the theatrical cultures related to it by reconstructing the connection between some theatrical works and the spaces in which they took place (for example the Roman amphitheaters, the Elizabethan theaters, the circus, the square, opera theatres, the landscape theater).

The first module focuses on the development of scenography in the history of opera theatre.

The laboratory module investigates selected case studies regarding the city of Bologna between the Modern age and the present days; it will also deal with environmental theatre.

Students with SLD or temporary or permanent disabilities. It is suggested that they get in touch as soon as possible with the relevant University office and with the lecturer in order to seek together the most effective strategies for following the lessons and/or preparing for the examination.

Readings/Bibliography

Module 1

1. Perrelli Franco, Storia della scenografia. Dall’antichità al XXI secolo, II ed., Roma, Carocci editore, 2021 (Occorre procurarsi questa edizione)
2. Mercedes Viale Ferrero, L'Opera in scena. Luogo teatrale e spazio scenico, Torino, EDT, 2024

Module 2 (Laboratory)

1. L. Budriesi (a cura di), Animali in scena. Drammaturgie del contemporaneo, Napoli, Editoria&Spettacolo (in corso di stampa)

2. Budriesi Laura, Bologna come teatro nel Quattrocento. Feste per nozze, Citta di Castello (PG), Odoya, 2020 (pp. 1-167 only).
   

3. Notes of the lessons
   

 Non-attending students must add: Rossella Mazzaglia, Teatri altri. Dallo spazio al paesaggio della scena italiana, Imola (Bo), Cue Press, 2024. Limitatamente alle pp. 5-59; 134-197..

Teaching methods

The lessons (30 hours "History" + 30 hours "Laboratory") will be carried out in the presence.

The course is organized in frontal lessons, with analysis and deepening of the concepts treated, guided analysis of the audiovisual works of the theatre and opera. The module Laboratory will host practitioners and includes the reading of critical essays.

Assessment methods

The evaluation of the course will be carried out according to the ways, timing and guidelines established by the course of study. It will be based on an oral interview, with questions aiming at verifying the student's knowledge of the themes discussed during frontal lectures (only for attending students) as well as those treated in the program's compulsory readings.

The assessment will particularly focus on the skill displayed by the student in handling the material in the exam bibliography and his ability to find and use information and examples to illustrate and correlate the various themes and problems addressed in the course.

The assessment will thus examine the student's:

• factual knowledge of the subject;
• ability to summarize and analyze themes and concepts;
• familiarity with the terminology associated with the subject and his ability to use it effectively.

Top marks will be awarded to a student displaying an overall understanding of the topics discussed during the lectures, combined with a critical approach to the material and a confident and effective use of the appropriate terminology (30 cum laude and 30).

Average marks will be awarded to a student who has memorized the main points of the material and is able to summarise them satisfactorily and provide an effective critical commentary, while failing to display a complete command of the appropriate terminology (29-27).

A mnemonic knowledge of the subject, together with the capacity for synthesis and analysis articulated in a correct language, but not always appropriate, will lead to discreet evaluations (26-24).

Gaps in training and/or imprecise language - albeit in a context of minimal knowledge of the examination material - will lead to sufficient marks (23-21).

Training gaps and/or imprecise language - albeit in a context of minimal knowledge of the examination material - will lead to just enough grades (20-18).

Insufficient training, inappropriate language, lack of orientation within the bibliographic material will be evaluated negatively (<18).

Students with SLD or temporary or permanent disabilities. It is necessary to contact the relevant University office with ample time in advance: the office will propose some adjustments, which must in any case be submitted 15 days in advance to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of these in relation to the teaching objectives.

Teaching tools

Audiovisual material from theatre, digital archives; platforms and websites.

Office hours

See the website of Matteo Paoletti

See the website of Laura Budriesi