ObjectivesThe Theatre and Performance Studies BA provides opportunities to study theatre and performance from the origins of theatre to contemporary performance practice in a stimulating and research-driven academic environment. In the first year, we aim to give you a broad understanding of different methodological and theoretical approaches to the study of theatre and performance. We explore the importance of theatre history to enable you to make critical, interpretative and creative judgements in the context of historical developments and change.
Entry requirementsGeneral university admissions requirements All applicants must possess a minimum level of competence in English Language and in Mathematics or a Science. A pass at Grade C or above in GCSE English Language and in Mathematics or a Science, or an equivalent qualification, fulfils this requirement. For some courses, requirements are above this University minimum, so you should check the relevant course-specific entry requirements in our hard copy prospectus which you can order online or browse on our online directory. We usually ask for candidates to show a broad base of study at GCSE level (or equivalent) with passes in at least five subjects from a range of disciplines.
Academic titleBA Theatre and Performance Studies
Course descriptionBA Theatre and Performance Studies
Programme
Year One
-Introduction to Theatre – examines the relationship between theatre and its historical context through the study of key movements, theorists and practitioners.
-Introduction to Contemporary Performance Studies – explores the impact and significance of the evolving inter-disciplinary field of performance studies through the study of key issues such as the body, space, language, liveness, ritual and the politics of performance.
-Contemporary Theatre and its Context – begins by exploring a wide range of contemporary performance, which involves an extensive programme of theatre visits. The module goes on to discuss the work of contemporary British playwrights. It concludes by looking at the current economic and organisational framework of the theatre in the UK.
-Aspects of Practice – introduces a range of practical working methods and approaches in studio-based sessions that address areas such as devising for performance, writing for performance and practical video-making.
Year Two
-Aspects of Theatre and Performance – a seminar-based series of options drawing on historical and more recent developments in theatre and performance. This is a double-weighted module, the equivalent of two normal modules.
Year Three
-Theatre and Ideology: Exilic Perspectives
-Staging Shakespeare from 1960 to the Present Day
-Theatre and National Identities
-Interpreting the Theatrical Past
-Performance and the Contemporary City
-Intercultural Theatre practices
-Theatre of the “New” Europe
-Performance Realities
-Multimedia performance
-Performance Ecologies
-Practical Option: a research-based, individual or group practical option
-Marketing Theatre