BA (Hons) English Literature and Theatre, Acting & Performance

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) English Literature and Theatre, Acting & Performance program provides a balanced and integrated study of the art of storytelling in both written and embodied forms. It emphasizes a critical and analytical approach to understanding how literary texts function as dramatic blueprints and how performance choices interpret and transform these texts for an audience. The program encourages students to explore the theoretical underpinnings of both disciplines and to develop practical performance skills informed by a deep understanding of dramatic literature. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and performance projects, students develop a comprehensive understanding of both fields.

Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to provide a progressive learning experience, starting with foundational modules that introduce key concepts in both English literature and theatre studies. In English literature, students explore foundational literary texts, critical approaches, and the historical development of literature, with a particular focus on dramatic works. In theatre, acting & performance, they study acting techniques, theatre history, and basic stagecraft. As students advance, they engage with more specialized modules, such as Shakespeare in performance, modern drama, performance theory, devising theatre, physical theatre, directing, and contemporary performance practices. The program encourages students to explore the connections between literature and performance, understanding how literary texts are adapted and interpreted for the stage and how performance choices can illuminate literary meaning. A significant component involves intensive practical workshops and the creation and performance of theatrical productions, alongside critical essays and textual analyses of dramatic literature.

Research Focus: The University of Worcester fosters a research-informed teaching environment within its School of Humanities and the School of Arts and Creative Industries, which directly benefits the BA (Hons) English Literature and Theatre, Acting & Performance program. Faculty members are actively engaged in research across various areas of English literary studies, such as contemporary drama, Shakespearean studies, and performance theory, as well as in theatre and performance studies, including acting pedagogy, devising theatre, and the history of performance. Students benefit from being taught by academics who are actively contributing to their fields and may have opportunities to engage with research through their studies and final-year performance projects or dissertations. The program aims to cultivate a research-oriented mindset, encouraging students to critically analyze both dramatic texts and performance practices and to conduct their own investigations into their complex relationship.

Industry Engagement: The BA (Hons) English Literature and Theatre, Acting & Performance program places a strong emphasis on preparing students for successful careers in the performing arts and related industries. The curriculum often incorporates masterclasses and workshops led by professional actors, directors, and theatre practitioners. The University of Worcester actively seeks to build and maintain links with local and regional theatre companies, arts organizations, and performance venues. This engagement may include opportunities for internships, collaborative projects, and networking events, providing students with valuable practical experience and industry connections. The aim is to ensure that graduates possess the skills, knowledge, and professional networks that are highly valued by employers in the dynamic and competitive performing arts sector.

Global Perspective: The University of Worcester welcomes a diverse international student body, enriching the learning experience within the BA (Hons) English Literature and Theatre, Acting & Performance program. Dramatic literature and theatrical traditions are global phenomena, reflecting diverse cultural histories and performance styles. The program encourages students to explore a wide range of dramatic texts and performance practices from around the world, fostering an understanding of the global landscape of theatre and performance. Discussions and practical explorations often incorporate international examples, and students have opportunities to interact with peers from various cultural backgrounds, fostering a global perspective essential for engaging with the diverse and interconnected world of storytelling and performance.