Master of Philosophy in Theatre Studies (Playwriting) in Colchester United Kingdom | University of Essex

The Department of Literature, Film and Theatre Studies boasts a dynamic Theatre and Drama program guided by accomplished playwrights and theater professionals who balance industry work with academic instruction. Five dedicated faculty members focus on diverse specialties including verbatim theater, performance studies, global theater traditions, digital performance, testimonial theater, and playwriting.

Elizabeth Kuti earned the distinguished Susan Blackburn Award for her play 'The Sugar Wife' and has seen her works staged in London and broadcast on BBC Radio 4. Annecy Lax collaborates with 'Ice and Fire' as an Associate Artist, creating human rights-focused verbatim theater through writing and directing. Liam Jarvis leads his innovative company 'Analogue', exploring how digital advancements can transform theatrical experiences - his internationally touring productions have earned Edinburgh Fringe's coveted 'Fringe First'. Mary Mazilli specializes in modern Chinese theater, authoring two scholarly works while serving as founder and Creative Director of Lumenis Theatre Company. Jonathan Lichtenstein's internationally performed plays have also been recognized with a 'Fringe First' award.

Postgraduate researchers gain access to the renowned Lakeside Theatre at our Colchester Campus, a long-standing hub for quality drama with strong emphasis on new theatrical writing. The venue features a 30-seat studio and 200-seat main auditorium, regularly hosting professional touring productions alongside original works by faculty and students.

Our alumni have flourished as professional writers, while others have built careers as academics, educators, publishing professionals, media specialists, arts managers, theater leaders, drama consultants, and translators.