Fall 2025 - CA 251 D100
Live Acts III (3)
Class Number: 6224
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, Thu, 11:30 a.m.–2:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
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Instructor:
James Long
jelong@sfu.ca
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Prerequisites:
One of CA 123, 131, 146, 152, 161, 171.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
The third of four performance studio courses in the Live Acts cluster. A continued exploration of the foundations of live performance making from a variety of perspectives. With rotating topics each term, students develop the foundational skills for creating original, contemporary live art.
COURSE DETAILS:
Live Acts IV: Performing with Text offers students an in-depth exploration of the craft of performing the written word, focusing on the vocal, physical, and interpretive skills essential to bringing performance texts to life. Through a combination of individual and ensemble work, students will first develop and perform original short texts before moving into interpretations of key scenes from Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ Everybody and Samuel Beckett’s Endgame. Emphasis will be placed on textual analysis, character development, and the integration of voice and movement techniques.
This course is designed for students seeking to develop abilities in performing traditional, contemporary and original texts.
Open to all students in the School for the Contemporary Arts who have completed their first-year requirements in their respective disciplines, and to second year and above students from other faculties at SFU with instructor permission. Reach out to James Long for more information.
COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:
Develop Performance Techniques for Text-Based Work
Students will refine the vocal and physical tools necessary for performing written texts, with an emphasis on ensemble skills and presence.
Develop Skills in Textual Analysis and Interpretation
Students will learn to analyse language for performance purposes, identifying key structural, thematic, and character elements to support individualized interpretations.
Create and Perform Original Texts
Students will engage in the creation, revision, and performance of original short texts, applying traditonal and contemporary techniques to generate and revise unique material.
Interpret and Perform Contemporary and Canonical Scenes
Through guided rehearsal processes, students will explore performance approaches to contrasting styles and genres, including works by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins and Samuel Beckett.
Foster Collaborative and Reflective Practice
Students will develop collaborative skills through ensemble work and peer feedback, while also engaging in critical reflection on their own creative and performative processes.
Grading
- Solo Text Development and Performance 20%
- Scene Work of Brandon Jacob Jenkins' Everybody 30%
- Scene Study of Samuel Beckett's Endgame 30%
- General participation. Includes full completion of assignments and exercises, attitude, thoughtful participation in discussions, concentration, attendance, playfulness, risk, generosity, leadership, collaborative spirit, etc. 20%
NOTES:
We enter this space as collaborators. Each participant is responsible for the production and maintenance of its trajectory. This requires full attendance and participation in scheduled classes and presentations.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Students are expected to arrive on time for all scheduled classes and any group work sessions held outside of class. Unexcused absences or frequent lateness will negatively impact the final grade.
- All assignments must be fully prepared and submitted on time. This includes completing assigned readings, preparing materials for presentations, and meeting any other specified deadlines.
- All students are expected to contribute meaningfully to group discussions and presentations. We maintain a shared responsibility for respectful and constructive engagement in the studio.
- Students will be required to engage in both individual and group studio work outside of regular class hours.
- Please refrain from wearing scented products to class in consideration of those with sensitivities or allergies.
Materials
MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:
+ Comfortable studio clothing – we will be moving a great deal in class.
+ A binder, duotang, or equivalent book that allows for the inserting or removal of sheets of paper. We will discuss in class.
REQUIRED READING:
Samuel Beckett's Endgame
Everybody by Brandon Jacob Jenkins
ISBN: 9781559369701
RECOMMENDED READING:
Declan Donnelan's The Actor and the Target
ISBN: 1559362855
REQUIRED READING NOTES:
Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.
Registrar Notes:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS
At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.
To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit:
- SFU’s Academic Integrity Policy: S10-01 Policy
- SFU’s Academic Integrity website, which includes helpful videos and tips in plain language: Academic Integrity at SFU
RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION
Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.