And... Action!

This past week I focused on the research thesis project, officially called a sustained independent project or SIP that will make up the bulk of my second year on this MFA course. We are required to conduct two case studies as part of our SIP. The subjects of our case studies are up to us (pending approval) and vary wildly among the members of the class but all root in some area of producing.
I will continue with my interest in new writing for the stage and examine the producer's role in the dramaturgical workshop of a new work. My first case study will focus on a play and the second, a musical.

On Wednesday I met with my friend, Diana, who has just completed the MFA in Writing for Stage and Broadcast Media at Central. Her latest stage play will be the focus of our first workshop. Diana is currently doing re-writes on her script in preparation. I am starting the production process with creating schedules, establishing deadlines, programming the workshop, booking space, booking talent, and budgeting. There's much to do and all the while, I must research what other practitioners have done before me.

On Friday we had a seminar to help direct us in how to approach the academic part of this process and the actual writing of the papers themselves. We will use the methodology and structure of an Action Research Case Study. Case studies come in many styles and formats but the Action Research Case Study is the one for us. What does all this mean? Well, at its core, it is what it says on the tin; research through action. This does not mean we don't spend time in the library because we do have to base our analysis on theory and precedent from our field of study. However, we will need to also engage in action. Action can, of course, take many forms, observing is an action. But, whether observing or actually doing, we will have to witness situations on which we can draw to discuss our critical debates and support our conclusions. So, on top of doing the research on the actual workshop process, I will need to familiarize myself with the Action Research Case Study style.

Much to do! This coming week will prove to be busy, no doubt. I am also hoping to attend a couple of shows. I'll have to see how the work goes. It all depends on the "action" taken. I'll keep you posted.

Until next time...
Take care!
-m