This pioneering MA offers interdisciplinary perspectives on international performance, and aims to understand performance in relation to the culture to which it contributes.

The MA takes in diverse forms of theatre, including multicultural and street theatre, and such practices as performance art, dance, ritual, site-specific performance and a wide range of hybrid forms. It leads you to explore performance as sociocultural process by using analytical principles from sociology, the sociology of culture, cultural theory, anthropology, history, philosophy, politics and theatre and performance. We have numerous links, locally and internationally, with a wide variety of theatres, companies and performers, all of which enhance your research possibilities.

What you study

There are three compulsory core courses which focus on a range of issues concerning performance as a sociocultural practice. They involve conceptual and theoretical material, their interweave and their relationship to performance; historiographical methodologies and textual issues; analysis of live performances; cultural difference, ethnicity and cross-culturalism; questions to do with corporeality, alternative spaces and performance in terms of social inclusivity. A choice of options or independent study constitutes the fourth component, and a dissertation on your individual research completes your programme of study.

Skills

You will develop writing and oral skills at a high academic level, demonstrating the ability to think and work in an interdisciplinary manner using a range of methodologies. Your ability to work collaboratively and to facilitate and participate in group discussions will be enhanced. You will also develop skills in identifying the socio-cultural, historical and political issues and pressures specific to varied types of performance.

Careers

This programme provides a strong grounding in the principles of research and of learning through independent research. It is particularly suitable if you wish to pursue further academic work in creative, performative fields.

Register your interest

If you register your interest in this programme we will keep you informed about open days and send you relevant further information. If you subsequently decide to apply for this programme you will be able to use the same login details to apply.