Theatre & Performance Studies

Unique opportunity to pursue interests in Theatre and Performance Studies in the heart of London. Rigorous theoretical inquiry complemented by the opportunity to engage hands-on in performance, archival and curatorial practice through self-directed research and internship programmes. Ideal basis for a PhD in the field or further work in the arts.

KEY BENEFITS

• Unrivalled location at the heart of London allows students regular access to a wide range of theatre and performance events, including performances, seminars, and research centres.
• Semester-long internship opportunities offer hands-on approach to the theatre and performance work in the field.
• Dynamic intellectual community offered by King’s College London and surrounding institutions, supplemented by regular invited artist and academic speakers or artist residents.

PURPOSEIdeal for prospective students who have recently completed an undergraduate degree in Theatre, English or related fields, or spent time engaging in performance practice or work in related industries. The programme invites considered reflection on performance and performativity, emphasising close reading, research, and interdisciplinary approaches to theatre and the arts.

DESCRIPTION

The programme offers students the opportunity to study theatre and performance studies in a dynamic research environment in the heart of London. From avant-garde drama to political action, queer performance, live art, dance, cultural tourism, and the spectacles of the West End, students will be introduced to a range of theatre and performance theories and practices in an expanded field.

Students will take a core module in Theatre and Performance Theory, which will provide them with systematic understanding and critical awareness of current problems and new insights in the field, and the ability to critically evaluate current research and advanced scholarship in the discipline. Students will also take a core module in Theatre and Performance Research Methods in the second semester, which will provide them with the research skills and techniques needed to undertake advanced research and scholarship in the field, and enable them to evaluate and critique various methodological approaches to practice-based and scholarly research.

Optional modules across the Department and School will offer students further opportunities to study subject areas that intersect with theatre and performance studies. Guided study options will offer students further opportunities to develop practical knowledge in an area of their choice, from curatorship and archives to production.

Finally, a 15,000 word dissertation supervised by an academic member of staff will provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to undertake advanced research in the field in an area of their choice. While acting as a “terminal” MA, providing excellent preparation for a range of careers in the arts and education sectors, this programme will also provide students with a robust preparation for doctoral research in theatre and performance studies.

For more information, see http://www.kcl.ac.uk/artshums/depts/english/study/pgt/progs/perf/index.aspx