Introduction

In recent years, various print and online media in Macau have provided platforms for theatre criticism, and the number of critics has gradually increased. However, how can the standard of Macau theatre criticism be further elevated?

What kind of criticism is beneficial for improving critical writing and genuinely aids the growth of theatre creation and production?

Last year's "New Theatre Critic Training Program" fostered a vibrant discussion atmosphere from training to practice and initiated critic-in-residence projects for the "5th Taipei Fringe Festival" and the "12th Macao City Fringe Festival." This year, the "Rising Criticism Movement: New Theatre Critic Training Program" will focus on deepening critics' understanding of contemporary theatre aesthetics and their practical writing skills. The program aims to enhance public attention to theatre criticism, raise the standard of criticism, and increase the initiative of critics through three stages: "In-depth Study," "Local Intensive Training," and "Overseas Challenge."

Program Information and Registration Details

Stage 1: Contemporary Theatre Criticism Seminar Series (27 hours total)

Seminar 1: Introduction – Performance Criticism and Dramatic Criticism

• Date & Time: March 31, 2013, 15:00–18:00; 19:30–22:30
• Instructor: Xiao Xi

Seminar 2: Overview of Macau Theatre and Case Studies

• Date & Time: April 1–2, 2013, 19:30–22:30; April 7, 2013, 19:30–22:30
• Instructor: Mok Sio Chong

Seminar 3: Classic Texts, Contemporary Interpretations

• Date & Time: April 4–5, 2013, 19:30–22:30
• Instructor: Lin Naiwen

Seminar 4: Body, Non-Dance, and Theatre Criticism

• Date & Time: April 6, 2013, 15:00–18:00; 19:30–22:30
• Instructor: Xie Dongning

Stage 2: Local Intensive Training – Macao Arts Festival (May–June)

The organizer will select 5–7 outstanding participants from the above activities to watch theatre performances at the "24th Macao Arts Festival." They will be required to write a short review of approximately 300 words within 24 hours after the performance, which will be published immediately on a dedicated website. Experienced theatre critics from Macau, Hong Kong, and Taiwan will provide writing guidance to develop these short reviews into complete critical articles.

Stage 3: Overseas Challenge (August–September)

Successful participants who advance to this stage (no more than 5) will be organized by the host to travel overseas to watch theatre performances. They must write a short review of approximately 300 words within 24 hours after the performance, which will be published immediately on a dedicated website. Senior theatre critics will then provide guidance to develop these short reviews into complete critical articles.

Practical Information

• Organizer: Macau Theatre Culture Association
• Sponsor: Macao Foundation
• Program Period: March–September 2013
• Venue: Macau Theatre Culture Association (Rua de Coelho do Amaral No. 47 Art Space)
• Fees: MOP 1,000 for all 9 sessions; MOP 300 per individual seminar
• Registration Method: Send your name, contact details, and one previously published theatre review (in print or online) to [email protected] to reserve a spot. Payment must be made at the Rua de Coelho do Amaral No. 47 Art Space one week before the course starts. Late payment will be considered as withdrawal.
• Quota: 20 participants (priority will be given to those registering for all 9 sessions if the quota is exceeded)
• Enquiry Phone: (853) 2835 1572
• Office Hours: 12:30–18:30 (Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: http://www.facebook.com/Criticsproject