Performance Design and Practice

The MA in Performance Design and Practice at the University of the Arts London offers an innovative and multidisciplinary approach to the creation and production of live performance. This program is designed for students who are interested in exploring the intersection of visual spectacle, spatial design, material experimentation, and audience engagement within the realm of performance arts. Students will have the opportunity to develop their individual artistic voice while engaging with a wide range of contemporary performance practices, including experimental theatre, site-specific works, installation art, and digital media. The course fosters a collaborative environment where students can work across disciplines, blending art, design, choreography, and technology to produce innovative live experiences.

Throughout the program, students will critically examine the history, theory, and practice of performance, encouraging them to challenge traditional boundaries and explore new forms of expression. They will learn how to conceptualize, design, and facilitate performances that respond to social, political, and cultural contexts. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on practice, experimentation, and reflection, enabling students to develop practical skills in set and costume design, lighting, sound, stage management, and dramaturgy, alongside theoretical understanding.

Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and workshops, supporting their creative development through a rich array of materials and technologies. They will be encouraged to participate in collaborations with performance companies, galleries, and festival organizers, providing real-world experience and professional networking opportunities. The program aims to produce versatile graduates who are capable of working independently or collaboratively in diverse performance settings, including theatre, dance, performance art, and multimedia productions.

By integrating critical inquiry with practical application, the MA in Performance Design and Practice prepares students for careers as innovative practitioners, researchers, and educators in the dynamic landscape of contemporary live art. Graduates will possess the skills, knowledge, and creative confidence to push the boundaries of performance and contribute meaningfully to the cultural sector worldwide.

The Performance Design and Practice program at the University of the Arts is a dynamic and innovative course that explores the intersection of performance, design, and practice-based research. It is crafted to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and critical understanding necessary to develop experimental performance works, engage with different audience contexts, and contribute to contemporary performance discourse. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to explore diverse methodologies, embrace multidisciplinary approaches, and push the boundaries of traditional performance forms. The curriculum integrates practical workshop activities, theoretical seminars, and collaborative project work, providing a comprehensive learning environment that fosters creativity and experimentation. Students will have opportunities to develop their own artistic voice while critically engaging with current debates in performance studies, scenography, and devised theatre. The program emphasizes live practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovative use of media and technology, preparing graduates for careers in performance, theatre-making, choreography, devising, and related fields. Additionally, students benefit from the university's strong links with industry professionals, artists, and cultural organizations, enabling them to engage with real-world contexts and showcase their work. By the end of the course, students will have produced a substantial portfolio of performance projects, a written dissertation critically reflecting on their practice, and a professional profile suitable for emerging careers in contemporary performance sectors. This program is ideal for individuals passionate about experimental performance, visual arts, and creative practice, who wish to develop their distinctive artistic identity within a supportive and challenging academic environment.

The Performance Design and Practice program at the University of the Arts is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of contemporary performance practices through a multidisciplinary approach. Students are expected to engage deeply with a range of skills including physical theatre, improvisation, and devised performance techniques. The curriculum emphasizes experimental methods, collaborative creation, and critical analysis, encouraging students to develop unique artistic voices. Throughout the program, students participate in workshops, rehearsals, and live projects that foster practical experience alongside theoretical learning. The program also promotes the investigation of new media and digital technologies as tools for performance. Students are required to undertake independent research, create a portfolio of work, and demonstrate the ability to critically reflect on their practice. Collaboration with peers and industry professionals is integral, providing opportunities for networking and professional development. Entry requirements typically include a portfolio of work and a personal statement, with applicants encouraged to demonstrate creativity, originality, and commitment to performance art. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in various sectors, including theatre, dance, performance art, and community arts projects, as well as for further postgraduate study. Students are expected to attend lectures, seminars, and performances regularly, actively participating in discussions and critiques. Assessment methods include practical performance assessments, written assignments, presentations, and project portfolios. The program fosters an innovative and inclusive environment, supporting students to push boundaries and explore diverse forms of expression within contemporary performance.

The Finance for Performance Design and Practice program at the University of the Arts offers a range of funding options to support students throughout their studies. Students may be eligible for government-funded bursaries, scholarships, and financial aid packages designed to assist with tuition fees and living costs. The university encourages applicants to explore external funding sources, including arts-specific grants and sponsorships from private foundations and industry partners aligned with the creative sector. International students are advised to investigate scholarship opportunities provided by their home countries or international cultural organizations. Additionally, the university provides guidance on student loans for eligible students, subject to the regulations of the student's home country. A variety of bursaries are available based on merit, need, or specific criteria such as artistic excellence or diversity. The university also collaborates with arts organizations and industry partners to offer internship placements that may include stipends, providing both practical experience and financial support. It is recommended that prospective and current students regularly check the university’s financial aid portal and contact the university's funding office for personalized assistance. Due to the competitive nature of some scholarships and bursaries, early application and a strong academic and creative portfolio can enhance the likelihood of receiving financial support. The university is committed to ensuring that all students have access to resources necessary for successful completion of their degree program, regardless of financial background. Information on specific scholarships, application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility criteria can be found on the university's official website or by contacting the admissions office directly.

Performance Design and Practice at University of the Arts London offers a comprehensive education that blends practical performance skills with innovative design and conceptual thinking. This program aims to equip students with a diverse set of abilities, including the development of physical, vocal, and theatrical skills, alongside creative design techniques essential for contemporary performance contexts. Students engage in a broad range of practical activities such as acting, movement, voice training, and stagecraft, while also exploring experimental approaches to performance and devising original work. The curriculum encourages students to consider the cultural, social, and political dimensions of performance, fostering critical analysis alongside hands-on practice.

The program emphasizes collaboration across disciplines, enabling students to work with fellow performers, designers, and directors to produce multi-faceted projects. It supports the development of both individual artistic identity and team-based production skills through workshops, live performances, and industry placements. The university’s focus on industry relevance ensures that students gain experience in real-world settings, preparing them for careers in theatre, dance, performance art, and related fields. Additionally, the program offers opportunities to engage with contemporary performance practices, including digital media integration, site-specific work, and immersive theatre.

Students receive guidance from experienced practitioners and academics who are active in performance, theatre design, and related areas. The course structure combines theoretical learning with practical application, encouraging experimentation and innovation. Graduates of the program pursue diverse careers, including performance artist, director, designer, choreographer, and arts educator. The program also prepares students for postgraduate study, research, and independent artistic practice. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to develop their creative voice, technical proficiency, and professional confidence, making Performance Design and Practice a dynamic and forward-thinking course that responds to the evolving landscape of live and performance arts.