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This MA in Theatre, Performance and Critical Culture offers the unique opportunity to study in London's vibrant Theatreland district. The program immerses students in diverse performance theories, covering everything from modern theater and experimental performances to political activism through art; location-based productions, dance works, and musical creations; along with cultural tourism and commercial theater experiences. Throughout this graduate program, students examine how societal forces influence both theatrical traditions and current political movements, with particular attention to initiatives like Black Lives Matter, MeToo, and environmental activism. The curriculum includes customizable components, such as the Performance Lab conducted in the historic Anatomy Museum & Theatre on the Strand, which focuses on practice-led research.Program HighlightsDevelop comprehensive research skills in performance studies.Customize your studies with elective options, including the Performance Lab that concludes with an individual research-based presentation.Benefit from King's vibrant academic environment featuring visiting scholars and artists.Take advantage of London's rich cultural offerings.Launch your career in creative industries and arts organizations.Career PathsAlumni of this program have pursued diverse roles across arts and culture sectors, including museum curation, archival research, theatrical production, arts journalism, performance creation, and arts administration. Some graduates continue their academic journey through PhD programs—for instance, one recent alum is researching 1970s feminist lunchtime theater with AHRC funding at Cambridge University.
Standard requirements: A minimum 2:1 undergraduate Bachelor’s (honours) degree. If you have a lower degree classification, or a degree in an unrelated subject, your application may be considered if you can demonstrate significant relevant work experience, or offer a related graduate qualification (such as a Masters or PGDip).
Programme-Specific Requirements: An undergraduate honours degree with minimum 2:1 classification, in Theatre, Performance Studies, English or related fields. Strong interest and/or engagement in performance practice an asset. In order to meet the academic entry requirements for this programme you should have a minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree with a final mark of at least 60% or above in the UK marking scheme. If you are still studying you should be achieving an average of at least 60% or above in the UK marking scheme. IELTS (Academic): 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.5 in reading & writing and 6.0 in listening & speaking. TOEFL: 100 overall with a minimum of 25 in writing, 23 in reading and 20 in each of the other skills.