MA Applied Theatre and Intervention

Program Overview

The MA Applied Theatre and Intervention at the University of Leeds offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary approach to learning. Students will be exposed to a wide range of theatrical practices, from devising and performing to creating intervention-based projects that respond to societal challenges. The program is rooted in the belief that theatre can be a powerful tool for addressing social issues, fostering dialogue, and bringing about meaningful change in communities. Students will engage with a variety of methods, including participatory theatre, forum theatre, and community-based interventions. The program blends academic study with practical experience, ensuring that students can apply their learning to real-world settings. This hands-on approach to learning is complemented by theoretical insights into the role of applied theatre in promoting social change, justice, and inclusivity.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA in Applied Theatre and Intervention is designed to balance both practical and academic learning. Students will undertake core modules that introduce them to key concepts in applied theatre, including its history, methodologies, and ethical considerations. The program includes practical workshops that explore techniques in creating and delivering intervention-based performances, as well as exploring the role of performance in educational and social settings. Students will study various forms of applied theatre, such as community theatre, participatory performance, and theatre in education, gaining the skills necessary to design and facilitate intervention projects. Additionally, the curriculum includes the study of research methods, which will support students in developing their final project or dissertation. This multidisciplinary curriculum ensures that graduates are not only skilled theatre practitioners but also equipped with the analytical tools to assess and evaluate the impact of their work in social contexts.

Research Focus: The MA in Applied Theatre and Intervention emphasizes research-driven practice, encouraging students to explore how theatre can intervene in and transform social structures. The program focuses on understanding the impact of theatre on diverse communities and its potential for addressing issues such as inequality, mental health, and social justice. Students are encouraged to engage with contemporary debates in the field of applied theatre, critically examining its role in different settings, such as schools, prisons, and refugee camps. The university’s research in applied theatre focuses on the social impact of performance practices and the ways in which theatre can challenge societal norms, create dialogue, and bring marginalized voices to the forefront. Through this research, students can contribute to the development of applied theatre practices and the creation of new interventions.

Industry Engagement: The MA in Applied Theatre and Intervention at the University of Leeds emphasizes strong industry engagement, providing students with opportunities to collaborate with professional theatre companies, NGOs, educational institutions, and community organizations. The program includes placements and project-based work, enabling students to gain real-world experience in applying theatre techniques in a variety of settings. These collaborations give students the chance to work with experienced practitioners and to participate in live projects, which enhance their professional development. The university also offers guest lectures, masterclasses, and workshops with industry professionals, ensuring that students have access to the latest trends and practices in applied theatre. This hands-on, industry-focused approach prepares graduates for successful careers as applied theatre practitioners, facilitators, and project managers in the creative industries and beyond.

Global Perspective: The MA in Applied Theatre and Intervention at the University of Leeds offers a global perspective, preparing students to work in diverse cultural and social contexts. Theatre and performance practices have a long-standing history of social engagement in many parts of the world, and the program reflects this international dimension. Students will explore the role of applied theatre in global contexts, from community development projects in developing countries to interventions in post-conflict societies. The program encourages students to consider how different cultural, social, and political factors influence the practice of applied theatre and its potential for creating change. Additionally, the University of Leeds has a strong international reputation, and students will be exposed to a network of global partnerships, expanding their opportunities to work on international projects and collaborations.