Playing Text unit (FPB236)

Hobart, Launceston

Introduction

How can you play around with a play? This unit explores the evolution and interpretation of dramatic texts, using the concept of play to explore the range of interpretive practices that move the text from page to stage. Working with a range of texts, both classical and contemporary, you will analyse how theatrical texts have developed historically, and how texts speak to each other within the theatrical canon. These traditional modes of textual analysis will then inform a deeper critical engagement with the varied ways that theatrical texts are interpreted and performed through vocal delivery, physical movement, spatial design, lighting, sound, and other various dramaturgical practices. In this subject you will develop skills to draw out the themes and ideas in texts, as well as their social and historical contexts through scholarly research, and put these into practice through interpretive performance.

Summary

Unit name	Playing Text
Unit code	FPB236
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Arts and Society Creative and Performing Arts
Discipline	Theatre
Coordinator	Doctor Asher Warren
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Intermediate

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Semester 2
Launceston	Semester 2

Note

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Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 2	5/7/2026	27/7/2026	30/8/2026	24/10/2026

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• demonstrate knowledge of critical theory and industry practice related to the interpretation of texts for performance.
• critically compare a range of texts for performance.
• analyse the realisation of theatrical texts with reference to their social, cultural and historical contexts.
• identify the social and ethical issues that inform and are embedded in texts for performance.
• Develop skills in the creative practice of interpretation as a constructive and respectful collaborative process.

Fee Information

Field of Education	Commencing Student Contribution 1,3	Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3	Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3	Domestic Full Fee 4
100103	$1,192.00	$1,020.00	not applicable	$2,972.00

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³
• FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility⁴

¹ Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
² Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
³ Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
⁴ Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Prerequisites

FPB130 Performance Skills or FPB114 Dramatic Interactions AND FPB132 The Theatre Machine or FPB144 Movement for Performers

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	On campus (Hobart and Launceston) Weekly workshop( 3 hrs)  In addition: Self-directed learning (3-4 hrs), Self-directed rehearsal (1-2 hrs) (9 hours total weekly).
Assessment	Performative Reading and Exegesis. (20%)|Performance (40%)|Performance of a scene and rehearsal journal (40%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.