European Theatre Arts

Starting from the notions of the ensemble, crossing borders, and innovation you will explore a range of different European theatre practices, training intensively as a contemporary performer and theatre maker. You will develop your ability to create exciting innovative performance whilst crafting your personal artistic voice.

Tutored by an international team of theatre experts in collaboration with visiting industry professionals, you will investigate established and contemporary performance (from the perspective of performer, director, deviser) acquiring a wide range of skills and techniques for devised and text-based theatre, and building your capacity as a performance maker. Students gradually take on greater responsibility for the creative process, whilst collaborating with other performers, designers, and technical specialists to present original work.

You will develop an understanding of how performance is shaped by its cultural and historical contexts, employing this understanding to shape your own work in relation to the contemporary world.

In your second year, you will undertake a European placement, usually training at one of our partner institutions or companies, expanding your networks, and enhancing your employment opportunities. Current partners include Eòlia ESDA (Barcelona); Academy of Dramatic Arts (Wrocław); and Divadlo Continuo (Czechia).

Graduates leave ready to build a successful portfolio career in the global performing arts industry, as freelance performers and theatre makers. Our graduates often found their own cuttingedge companies performing in festivals and venues across the world. Others have performed with established companies/ venues such as Forced Entertainment, Teatr Brama, the Royal Court, and the National Theatres in London and Iceland. As well as working as performers, graduates also go on to work as directors, facilitators, teachers, and producers.

“The course offers an opportunity for students to analyse the world around them critically, and it allows us to decide how we want to represent our experiences on stage. We get a comprehensive understanding of European theatre techniques, enabling us as contemporary artists to redefine the human experience.” Jacqueline, European Theatre Arts student

You may also be interested in: American Theatre Arts BA (Hons) Contemporary and Popular Performance BA (Hons) Theatre and Social Change BA (Hons)