OUR COURSES:
MA/MFA Performing Shakespeare
Course Details
Please note that the exciting new MA/MFA in Performing Shakespeare is currently subject to final approval.
The MA/MFA in Performing Shakespeare is designed to appeal to students interested in the performance of Shakespeare and studying the original and contemporary practices of Shakespeare’s theatre. The course uses practice-based research methods and students choose either an MA or MFA degree pathway. The MA pathway is designed for students interested in submitting a traditional research-led dissertation, whereas the MFA pathway is designed for students seeking a practice-based dissertation project. Regardless of which pathway you choose, you will benefit from links with industry specialists, resident scholars, and educational opportunities with professional companies such as Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Course Structure and Content
The MA/MFA in Performing Shakespeare will introduce you to the historic and contemporary practices of performing Shakespeare. Students of both pathways share most of the modules, skills classes, performance and production work, workshops and off-site experiences; the distinction between the two degrees is made through your choice of dissertation outcome. MA students will be required to submit a written dissertation and MFA students will submit a performance project and supporting portfolio.
This course will give you the opportunity to creatively apply Shakespeare performance practices to your own work and ideas, and will aid in developing your autonomous and collaborative learning and performance skills. You will also be able to explore Shakespeare in depth through a variety of research methods and will be given the support and freedom to build upon your practice and research profile by completing a dissertation or developing a Shakespeare project from start to finish. This course will be valuable for actors, directors, teachers, scholars or other future Shakespeare enthusiasts and will equip you with the knowledge, skills and experience to pursue a professional career in the study and/or practice of performing Shakespeare.
Teaching Methods and Resources
The degree will be delivered through a variety of workshops, lectures, seminars, master classes, off-site visits, performance and production work, and through the VLE. Students will benefit from working and learning with an ever-expanding list of lecturers, specialists, artists and guest scholars. Students will also have access to a variety of resources including performance studios and spaces such as the University Theatre, Burdall’s Yard, and Corsham Court. Further departmental links with the Theatre Royal Bath, the Rondo Theatre, The Egg, The Ustinov, the Tobacco Factory, Circomedia, The Scoop @More London, and the Salisbury Playhouse may also prove fruitful for students on this course.
Upcoming events:
Creative Music Technology Degree Show
Wed 23rd May 2012, 6:30pm
Commercial Music Degree Performance
Thu 24th May 2012, 8:00pm