Physical Theatre

Program Description: The Bachelor of Arts in Physical Theatre at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive exploration of performance that integrates physical movement, storytelling, and innovative theatrical practices. This unique programme is designed to develop students’ skills in physical expression, improvisation, and devised theatre, fostering both creative confidence and technical proficiency. Throughout the course, students will engage in a variety of practical workshops, collaborative projects, and theoretical studies, enabling them to explore the rich history and diverse contemporary practices within physical theatre. The programme emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to experiment with different movement techniques, theatrical styles, and ensemble work, preparing them for careers in performance arts, teaching, choreography, or related fields. Under the guidance of experienced tutors and industry professionals, students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities such as dedicated rehearsal studios and performance spaces. In addition to practical skills, the programme offers modules in acting, dance, and theatre theory, ensuring a well-rounded education in the performing arts. The course also promotes critical thinking about performance, audience engagement, and visual storytelling, fostering a nuanced understanding of how physical theatre can communicate complex ideas and evoke emotional responses. Opportunities for collaborative projects, performances, and internships with theatre companies further enhance practical experience and industry connections. Graduates of this programme will be equipped with a versatile skill set that combines physical artistry with theatrical insight, enabling them to pursue diverse career paths in contemporary performance, devising theatre companies, arts education, or further postgraduate study. The Bachelor of Arts in Physical Theatre at the University of Essex is an engaging, dynamic program designed for passionate individuals eager to explore the transformative power of physical performance.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1

• Skills I;
• Mime;
• Poor Theatre: At Work On Grotowski;
• Narrative and Story Theatre;
• Mask;
• Character; and
• Text and Context I.

Year 2

• Skills II;
• Human Comedy; Human Drama;
• Object Theatre;
• Meyerhold and Biomechanics;
• Circus in a Suitcase; and
• Text and Context II.

Year 3

• Skills III;
• Ensemble Performance Project;
• Media and Devised Performance;
• Professional Preparation; and
• Solo Performance Project.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• Successful physical workshop audition, plus A-level grades EE or BTEC Diploma grades PP, or equivalent qualification
• GCSE English: C
• Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 45 level three credits at pass (or above).

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at Essex, please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

Physical Theatre at the University of Essex offers an innovative and dynamic approach to performance arts, integrating movement, physicality, and storytelling to create compelling theatrical productions. This programme immerses students in the study of physical performance techniques, exploring the expressive potential of the human body and its capacity to convey emotion, narrative, and abstract concepts without relying solely on spoken language. The course combines practical workshops, theoretical analysis, and creative projects to develop students' skills in choreography, improvisation, ensemble work, and devised theatre. Throughout the programme, students have opportunities to work with industry professionals and participate in various performance showcases, preparing them for careers in theatre, dance, performance art, and related fields. The curriculum emphasizes collaborative creation, critical thinking, and innovation in performance practice. Students also engage with historical and contemporary physical theatre companies, gaining an understanding of diverse styles and methodologies. The programme is designed to foster artistic experimentation and personal development, encouraging students to develop their unique performance voice. State-of-the-art facilities, including dance studios and performance spaces, support the training, while access to the university’s vibrant arts community enhances creative opportunities. Graduates of the programme have gone on to work in performance companies, television, film, and as solo performers, choreographers, or educators. The course offers pathways for further study, research, or professional advancement in the arts sector. Overall, the Physical Theatre programme at the University of Essex combines rigorous academic study with practical training to cultivate versatile and innovative performers prepared to make a mark in the performing arts industry.