Performance and Theatre Making
Canterbury Campus, United Kingdom
MA Performance and Theatre Making
University of Kent
Performance and Theatre Making
MA Performance and Theatre Making at the University of Kent
The MA Performance and Theatre Making at the University of Kent is designed for graduates from theatre and performing arts degrees, as well as practising artists who wish to develop or reconnect with their creative practice. Firmly embedded in Kent's thriving creative landscape on the Canterbury campus, this intensive programme prepares you through a holistic curriculum that combines performance training, dramaturgical practice, and critical thinking.
Whether you plan to work as a freelance artist, start a theatre company, or harness the power of the arts in other professional fields, this programme equips you with a well-rounded skillset. You will experiment with elements of devising, writing, adaptation, and directorial or choreographic decision-making while studying the wider political, social, and intellectual contexts of the field in Britain, Europe, and beyond.
Teaching takes place in the award-winning Jarman Building, which offers professional-standard drama facilities including performance studios, a gallery space, the 113-seat Aphra Theatre, and the flexible Lumley Theatre. You will benefit from studying with a staff team of leading specialists whose teaching is informed by creative practice and world-leading research.
Key Programme Highlights
- Develop your artistic voice through hands-on performance training and creative commissions with real-world constraints
- Professional placement study with artists or theatre companies to build industry networks and knowledge
- Access to professional-standard facilities including the Jarman Building, Aphra Theatre, and Lumley Theatre
- Opportunity to apply for the Graduate Theatre Company Scheme in partnership with the Gulbenkian Arts Centre
Curriculum and Modules
The MA Performance and Theatre Making follows a structured progression across three terms, moving from collaborative workshop-based exploration in autumn, through independent creative project work in spring, to a dissertation research project in summer. Assessment consists of 100% coursework, including essays, performances, funding budgets, reviews, written reflections, presentations, and practice-as-research portfolios.
Performance Practices I
30 creditsAn intensive theatre lab module where you experiment with various dramaturgical approaches to storytelling and create new performance. You explore different roles and develop your independent creative practice through weekly workshops, responding to creative commissions that introduce you to the local arts scene.
Performance in Context
30 creditsThrough lectures, screenings, and seminars, you learn to examine performance in context by studying case studies in relation to key theoretical frameworks. This module develops your understanding of the political, social, and intellectual contexts that shape creative work and its reception.
Performance Practices II
30 creditsDuring the spring term, you conceive, develop, and manage an original practical and creative project at an advanced level, taking the role of writer, director, or performer. You document the process and reflect on your work as an individual artist and collaborator.
Professional Study
30 creditsThis module explores the interconnectedness between academic research and professional practice in theatre and performance. You undertake a placement with an artist or theatre company and attend lectures on professional practice, including funding applications and marketing.
Dissertation Project
60 creditsFor the summer term, you develop your own independent research project, which may include a practice-as-research element. This project allows you to position yourself at the forefront of the discipline and develop your creative voice as a theatre practitioner.
Research Skills and Academic Writing
IntegratedMandatory seminars in academic writing, research skills and resources, and practice as research (PaR) support you in shaping and preparing your dissertation project ideas throughout the programme.
Elective Topics and Specialisations
Admission Requirements
The University of Kent considers applications from students holding a wide range of qualifications. All applicants are assessed on an individual basis, and additional qualifications, professional experience, and relevant creative practice may be taken into account. To begin your application, contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligibility and documentation.
Academic Requirements
- Academic QualificationA first or second class honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject
- Relevant SubjectsTheatre, performing arts, drama, dance, or other related disciplines
- Professional ExperiencePractising artists and theatre professionals with relevant experience are also encouraged to apply
- Writing SampleA sample of academic writing, ideally an essay on a similar or related topic from your undergraduate degree
- Individual AssessmentAll applicants are considered individually; alternative qualifications and professional experience may be accepted
English Language Requirements
- IELTS AcademicOverall 6.5 (contact Uni4Edu for component score details)
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for the current minimum score requirement
- Pre-sessional EnglishPre-sessional English courses are available for students who do not yet meet the language requirements
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Kent offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international postgraduate students. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for scholarships that match your profile and eligibility.
Kent International Scholarship
Up to GBP 10,000Available to international fee-paying students entering a taught postgraduate degree. Awards are based on academic achievement, personal statement, and references. Contact Uni4Edu for eligibility criteria and application guidance.
Kent Future Students Scholarship
Up to GBP 5,000Designed for international students from selected countries starting postgraduate taught programmes. This scholarship is applied as a tuition fee waiver and does not require a separate application in most cases.
British Council GREAT Scholarship
GBP 10,000Available to students from selected countries including Ghana, India, Kenya, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, and Turkiye. Applicable to all full-time postgraduate taught programmes. Contact Uni4Edu for application details.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the MA Performance and Theatre Making develop creative, practical, and critical thinking skills that open doors to a wide range of career paths in the arts and beyond. The programme's combination of performance training, professional placement, and industry knowledge equips you for a dynamic career in the contemporary cultural sector.
Potential Career Roles
Sectors and Employers
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Kent is a well-established public research university consistently ranked among the top universities in the United Kingdom. Its Drama and Theatre department is recognised for world-leading research and has produced Olivier Award winners, internationally recognised playwrights, and industry-shaping producers.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Arts and Humanities | QS World Rankings | #260 |
| Performing Arts | REF Research Excellence | World-leading research |
| Creative Arts and Design | Complete University Guide | Strong research quality |
| Liberal Arts and Social Sciences | EduRank | #34 in UK |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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