Mlitt Theatre Studies

Program Overview

The MLitt in Theatre Studies at the University of Glasgow is designed for students who are passionate about exploring the historical, theoretical, and practical aspects of theatre. The program offers a rich academic environment where students delve into both classic and contemporary theatre traditions, gaining an understanding of the socio-political implications of performance across cultures. Students engage in a blend of seminars, lectures, and independent research, with opportunities to participate in discussions and presentations on cutting-edge topics in theatre studies. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging students to analyze theatre in relation to other art forms, history, and contemporary global issues. Graduates of the program will possess the intellectual tools necessary to critically analyze theatre and contribute to the scholarly discourse surrounding performance practices.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MLitt in Theatre Studies includes core modules in performance theory, theatre history, and dramatic literature, ensuring students acquire a broad knowledge base of the field. Students will study influential playwrights, directors, and theorists, as well as the evolution of various performance traditions, from classical theatre to modern and postmodern forms. Elective modules enable students to specialize in particular areas such as gender in performance, theatre and politics, cultural studies in performance, or theatrical performance in the digital age. Research-led teaching forms the backbone of the curriculum, and students will engage in independent research projects, culminating in a dissertation that demonstrates their ability to critically analyze and contribute original perspectives to the field of theatre studies. The program also fosters critical engagement with contemporary debates around theatre and performance, encouraging students to interrogate the relevance of theatre in today’s society.

Research Focus: The research focus of the MLitt in Theatre Studies is centered around contemporary and historical explorations of theatre, with an emphasis on critical theory and interdisciplinary research. Students will engage with a range of scholarly approaches, including postcolonial theory, feminist theory, queer theory, and performance studies, to analyze theatrical works and performance practices. The program encourages students to explore the sociocultural dimensions of theatre, examining how performance reflects, critiques, and engages with contemporary social, political, and cultural issues. Research opportunities span areas such as performance history, theatre and identity, digital performance, performance and politics, and the impact of globalisation on theatre practices. Students are encouraged to develop their own research agenda and contribute new ideas to the evolving field of theatre studies.

Industry Engagement: The MLitt in Theatre Studies emphasizes the practical application of academic knowledge, ensuring students are well-prepared for careers in the theatre industry, cultural organizations, and academia. The program offers numerous opportunities for industry engagement, including guest lectures, workshops, and collaborations with theatre practitioners, critics, and scholars. Students can also gain valuable experience through internships and work placements with leading theatre companies, cultural institutions, and arts festivals. This exposure to the professional theatre world provides students with insight into the workings of the industry and the chance to network with industry professionals. Additionally, the University’s strong links with prominent theatres, cultural organizations, and arts professionals open up career pathways in theatre production, arts administration, and cultural consultancy.

Global Perspective: The MLitt in Theatre Studies offers a global perspective on theatre, enabling students to engage with a diverse range of theatre traditions and performance practices from around the world. The program emphasizes the importance of cross-cultural exchanges and the exploration of theatre as a global phenomenon that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. Students will examine the role of theatre in various global contexts, including theatre in conflict zones, theatre and postcolonial narratives, and the impact of globalisation on contemporary performance practices. The University of Glasgow’s strong international reputation and collaborations with global theatre networks provide students with access to a wide range of international scholarship, performances, and events. This global perspective ensures that students are prepared to contribute to international conversations and debates within the field of theatre studies.