2 1 Performing Arts In Context Part 1

© Boardworks Ltd 20091 of 141 of 8 © Boardworks Ltd 2009

2.1 Performing Arts in Context – part 1Unit 2: Performance

Alberta Gyamfi

© Boardworks Ltd 20092 of 8

Learning objectives

To be able to undertake an investigation into how a form of performance originated

To be able to explore how and why the form changed over time Alberta gyamfi

Icons key:

Teacher’s notes included in the Notes Page

Flash activity. These activities are not editable

For more detailed instructions, see the Getting Started presentation

Web addresses Case study

Project task


Introduction to performance

A performance can involve a wide range of activities such as acting, singing, dancing and playing a musical instrument.

Performances can be quite simple affairs, such as when a solo musician performs in a pub.

Or alternatively, they can be complex large-scale productions involving a huge number of performers, as well as backstage and technical staff.


The performing arts

The performing arts is a term that is used to describe a vast range of arts and entertainment activities.

It describes all types of music, dance and drama, as well as forms that combine two or more disciplines, such as musical theatre and pantomime.


Focusing on a form of performance

Your investigation will need to focus on a specific form of performance.

You will be given a brief for your project.

The brief may tell you the form of performance you need to investigate. However, it may give you a choice of topics to investigate.


Origins

The beginnings of a particular form of music, drama or dance are sometimes easy and sometimes difficult to establish.

For example, the form of music known as grunge began in the mid 1980s in Seattle and became popular due to the success of bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam.

However, the origins of disco are more difficult to pin down to a specific place and time because this form of music developed from a number of other musical styles including Motown and Philly.


Case study: jukebox musical

Visit www.rttfp.com to find out more about this jukebox musical.

The jukebox or songbook musical is a form of stage or film musical that has a score made up of previously released popular songs. These musicals often use songs from a particular singer or group, e.g. Mama Mia! uses ABBA songs.

The origins of the form date back to the late 1980s with The Buddy Holly Story being an early example. Many however credit Bob Carlton’s Return to the Forbidden Planet as being the first true example of the form. Return to the Forbidden Planet is an unlikely combination of a string of rock ‘n’ roll standards and a plot loosely based on a Shakespeare play.


Jukebox musical true or false

2 1 Performing Arts In Context Part 1

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