Theatre, Performance and Critical Culture King's College London

Overview

This programme offers a unique opportunity to delve into the realms of theatre, performance, and cultural practices within an intellectually vibrant community situated in London. The curriculum integrates critical theory, creative exploration, and interdisciplinary research, encompassing various aspects such as contemporary theatre, live art, cultural tourism, experimental choreography, and political performance. Students will critically engage with how performance interacts with broader social, political, and environmental issues, fostering self-reflective critical and performative writing skills. Core themes of the programme include capitalism and crisis, race and gender theory, trans politics, sustainability, and the climate emergency, underscoring the programme's commitment to ethical and political concerns.

The programme culminates in a 15,000-word dissertation, supported by a Research Methods and Practice module, which equips students to undertake advanced independent research. Ideal candidates are those who have recently completed a BA in Theatre, Performance Studies, Comparative Literature, English, journalism, or related fields, or who have engaged in critical performance practices or relevant industries such as museums or festival planning. Graduates will find themselves well-prepared for careers within the arts and cultural sectors, including roles in curation, production, dramaturgy, journalism, and arts management, as well as opportunities for further academic or professional research.

Why Theatre, Performance and Critical Culture at King's College London?

King's College London is renowned for its exceptional location, offering direct access to a myriad of theatre and performance events, including performances, seminars, and research centres. The vibrant intellectual community at King’s is enhanced by regular guest speakers from the artistic and academic realms, providing students with invaluable insights and networking opportunities.

Syllabus

• Critical Theory in Theatre and Performance
• London as a Classroom: Performance Sites
• Performance Lab: Practice-Based Research
• Research Methods and Practices
• Dissertation Preparation and Presentation

Careers with Theatre, Performance and Critical Culture

Graduates of this programme find themselves in diverse roles across the arts and cultural sectors. Alumni have secured positions in curation, production, dramaturgy, journalism, and arts management. They are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the cultural landscape, contributing to various industries and sectors.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the Theatre, Performance and Critical Culture M.A. are as follows: £13,500 per year for domestic students and £30,000 per year for international students. Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.