Project: Precedent Research

For this assignment I would like everyone to look outside the existing course resources to report on a project related to the course themes. Our theme is storytelling machines, so we are particularly interested in machines, toys, or devices related to drama and narrative, whether for children or adults.

Process

Please explore both online and library resources to find another project which can provide insight into machines for dramatic performance. Please consider the following questions:

  • In what ways does the device extend and transform the performance of a human operator?

  • Which aspects of the expression relate to physical form and which relate to the movement?

  • Which elements of performance are under direct human control and which are autonomous?

  • What feature of the work could we specifically evolve into a storytelling machine?

Deliverables

Please post a brief report as a Google Doc or slideshow to the correct shared folder and be prepared to lead an in-class discussion. Your report should include the following:

  1. one-sentence synopsis of the precedent you are reporting on

  2. one-sentence answers to the prompt questions

  3. links to additional sources, if online

  4. images or an an embedded video, if available

We will need to keep the in-class discussions brief in the interests of time. Please be prepared to deliver a concise synopsis of the work, show a short selection of images and video, then present one or two questions for discussion. Please keep any presented video to the minimum duration that conveys the concept in order to leave the most time for discussion.