https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/111194 2026-04-05T11:28:30Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/117460 Title: Exploring movement and gesture in contemporary performance: three case studies Abstract: This dissertation focuses on movement and gesture within the blurred boundaries of physical genres in contemporary contexts. While dance emphasises aesthetic movement as design, acting centres around gesture infused with intentionality and meaning. In both cases, similar physical mechanisms are engaged. The performer’s body serves as a tool for narration, unlocking imagination and intellectual engagement through physicality in different contexts around the world. As such, this dissertation explores movement and gesture in contemporary performance, by examining case studies from Indian theatre, clowning, and physical theatre in the West, each presented with its own background, influences, and training methods, offering a diverse range of geographical and aesthetic practices. The first case study focuses on Soma Giri’s contemporary performance Silence, highlighting the influence of classical forms on Indian theatre. The second case study delves into James Thiérrée’s La Symphonie Du Hanneton, exploring gesture in mime, and clowning. The third case study analyses Gecko Theatre Company’s physical performance Kin, emphasising body control and movement as storytelling tools. The aim of the dissertation is thus to present an array of contemporary performance realities that rely on gesture and movement as an aesthetic and narrative device. Description: M.A.(Melit.) 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/117459 Title: Approaches to training and directing beginner actors Abstract: This dissertation focuses on uncovering suitable ways through which beginner actors can gain skills on performing through directing approaches. Using my own personal experience in working with beginner actors, the dissertation defines what a beginner actor is, explores different directing approaches throughout history, and tackles a series of different case studies in which theatre practitioners worked with inexperienced actors. Through research carried out in Chapters 1 and 2, this dissertation then culminates in a series of workshop plans aimed at training beginner actors by means of a devised performance. Description: M.A.(Melit.) 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/117458 Title: Classroom revolution : the use of theatre of the oppressed in the twenty-first century class Abstract: This is a study of the use of Theatre of the Oppressed as a teaching method in secondary schools. It focuses on how Theatre of the Oppressed can be used in subjects that tackle citizenship to help students engage more with the world around them and give them skills that can shape them into active citizens. It explores TO’s journey from its beginnings to its use in the twenty-first century and the advancement it achieved throughout the years. It also provides concrete examples of the use of TO in class. The hypothesis of this study is put into practice through a workshop with a group of secondary school students, where they engage with TO’s techniques through various sessions. Description: M.A.(Melit.) 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/117457 Title: Phrasing and articulation in the interpretation of nineteenth-century works for clarinet Abstract: Phrasing and articulation are important concepts that greatly contribute to the expression and shaping of a musical performance. By carefully working on using correct phrasing and articulation, the performer can enhance the quality of the rendition, making it more meaningful to the listener by affecting the mood, dynamics and emotions through the careful planning of breaths, slurs and intensity of staccato amongst other written notation conventions. The aim of this dissertation is to delve into the importance of proper phrasing and articulation while analising the two notions in context of the clarinet repertoire. The analysis of phrasing and articulation of nineteenth-century works for the clarinet is of central importance in this study as it is the century when the instrument flourished in its technical and musical potential, and where phrasing and articulation were greatly connected to and affected by emotions. A truly holistic approach to analysing and performing any repertoire is the ultimate goal and contribution of this dissertation through a case study methodology of two major works written for the clarinet. This approach will help to convey the composers’ musical and expressive intentions in the most effective and efficient way possible, which is essential for giving the music its true essence and meaning. Description: M.Mus(Melit.) 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z