https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/2739 2026-08-22T12:36:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/148516 Title: Choreographing fear : a Laban movement analysis of survival horror gameplay in Resident Evil Abstract: This dissertation examines how choreographed movement contributes to fear and player immersion in survival horror video games through an analysis of selected boss encounters from the Resident Evil series. Using Laban Movement Analysis as the principal analytical framework, the study explores how movement functions as an expressive and affective mechanism within video games. While existing scholarship on survival horror often focuses on environmental design, this research argues that movement is central to the construction of fear and embodied player experience. Focusing specifically on the boss encounters against Lady Dimitrescu and Jack Baker, the analysis explores how these antagonists generate different forms of kinaesthetic unease through choreographed movement. The methodology combines qualitative movement interpretation with quantitative data collection through the logging of recurring LMA elements observed within recorded gameplay footage. The findings demonstrate that movement patterns significantly shape player perception and emotional response within survival horror gameplay. Lady Dimitrescu creates instability and disorientation, while Jack Baker evokes claustrophobia and oppressive tension. By combining dance studies methodologies with game studies scholarship, this dissertation contributes to interdisciplinary discussions surrounding digital performance and survival horror game design. Ultimately, the research proposes that choreographic analysis offers valuable insight into how fear is communicated within video games and demonstrates the potential for movement-based methodologies to inform future horror game development. Description: B. Dance St.(Hons)(Melit.) 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/148122 Title: The evolution of drama schools in Malta from MTADA till today Abstract: The aim of this study is to assess the progression that drama schools and actor training have gone through in the past fifty years since the Manoel Theatre Academy of Dramatic Art (MTADA), the first formal academy of its kind in Malta, was founded in 1977. It starts by defining the word ‘evolution’ in a biological sense and frames this around three key reference points, namely extinction, adaptability, and plasticity. The dissertation applies these terms in the local cultural and theatrical context and demonstrates how these have affected actor training in Malta. It explains that the term extinction does not necessarily mean that drama schools or theatre no longer exist in Malta but rather focuses on what has been lost or weakened within Maltese drama education. It will go on to demonstrate how schools had to adapt and constantly find ways to balance different pressures in order to survive while staying true to their values. Finally, the dissertation will also look into the future and enquire what Maltese theatre practitioners who are, or were, owners, educators, or leaders of their respective schools or academies envisage the future will hold for theatre and actor training in Malta. Description: B.A. (Hons)(Melit.) 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/148121 Title: Integrating modal and melodic structures of ethio-jazz with Irish traditional music : portfolio of original compositions with commentary Abstract: The aim of this dissertation is to explore the similarities and differences between Ethio-jazz and Irish traditional music by comparing the scales and modes used within each of these styles, and inspire the composition of new music that fuses elements from these disparate musical traditions. The dissertation includes a portfolio comprised of twenty-one musical scores of compositions arranged into eight ‘sets’. Each set is comprised of three ‘tunes’ except for the first and final set, which contain two pieces and one singular piece respectively. The compositions are arranged for small ensembles commonly found in contemporary Irish traditional music performance. These works are the product of a fusion between two individual fields of musical study. Each composition features a melody composed using a specific pentatonic mode from the Ethiopian system of modes such as Tezeta, Bati, Ambassel or Anchihoye set within a musical form traditionally found in Irish music such as a reel, jig, slip jig or slide. The commentary analyses the modal and melodic properties of my compositions. This portfolio of compositions represents a fusion between two musical styles rooted in folkloric musical tradition. It aims to demonstrate how shared features can bridge culturally disparate musical idioms. Despite significant investigation over many years, ‘folk music’, and what it implies remains a contested concept, and its study has developed differently in different countries and contexts (Carole 2001). Exploring the similarities and differences between two different genres of folk music will help to provide insights into cultural expression, history, and traditions offering an insight to the practices of different groups. Comparing a musical tradition rooted in my own heritage with another that I have a deep affinity for, offers a particular insight into the cultural traditions and implicit meanings of that tradition. While clearly articulated and definitive literature classifying Ethiopian pentatonic scales is scarce, the forms are audible within the music and ripe for analysis. This dissertation will aim to close the gap in literature, and create a clear and concise catalogue of these scales and investigate their versatility within a contrasting style of music. Description: M.Mus(Melit.) 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/148015 Title: Performing academia : building a successful university career Authors: Aquilina, Stefan Abstract: Using an autoethnographic approach, this book offers practical strategies and case studies to help scholars better perform the many roles of an academic. With academic formation at its foundational core, the book presents practical strategies aimed at facilitating academic performance, particularly in the areas of research-informed teaching, interdisciplinarity and collaboration, community engagement and the development of an international academic profile. The view of academia that emerges is a holistic and integrated one, with teaching often adopted as the locus where pedagogy connects with research and outreach. While the case studies presented are rooted in theatre and performance, the emerging concerns are relevant to anyone engaged in higher education. The book begins as a reflection on the author's own university career, revolving around 15 years of experience at the University of Malta and consistent engagement with research methodologies, reflective teaching, networking, internationalization and the duties associated with administration and senior management positions. Building on these reflections, the book supports academics in the initial stages of their career who might be seeking guidance to navigate, or perform, their roles in academia, as well as more seasoned academics looking to revitalize aspects of their work. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z