Writing for Performance

Writing for Performance at HKU University of the Arts Utrecht is an innovative and dynamic program dedicated to developing the creative writing skills of students within a theatrical and performance context. This program is designed for aspiring writers who are eager to explore the art of storytelling through various performance mediums, including theatre, performance art, and other live forms of expression. Students are encouraged to experiment with language, narrative structure, and different forms of textual expression to craft compelling performances that engage and challenge audiences.

Throughout the course, students will engage in a variety of workshops, seminars, and practical exercises that focus on the integration of written language with visual, physical, and auditory elements of performance. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of originality, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of contemporary performance practices. Students will learn to develop their own voice as writers, while also gaining insight into collaborative processes, directing, and staging to better understand how their written work functions within live performances.

The program fosters an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging students to draw inspiration from diverse artistic disciplines, including dance, theatre, visual arts, and multimedia. As part of their training, students will participate in performances, festivals, and collaborative projects that provide real-world experience and opportunities to showcase their work to a wider audience.

Faculty members are experienced practitioners and academics in the fields of drama, performance, and creative writing, providing mentorship and guidance throughout the program. Upon graduation, students will be prepared to pursue careers as playwrights, performance writers, dramaturgs, and other roles within the arts and culture sector. They will leave with a strong portfolio of written work and a thorough understanding of the relationship between text and live performance, empowering them to contribute innovatively to the evolving landscape of contemporary performance arts.

The Bachelor's programme in Writing for Performance at HKU University of the Arts Utrecht is a dynamic and innovative course designed to develop students' skills in creating compelling written material for a variety of live performance contexts. Throughout the programme, students explore the art of storytelling, dramaturgy, and scriptwriting across different genres and formats, including theater, dance, performance art, and multimedia performances. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, encouraging students to experiment with new forms of expression and to develop their unique voice as writers.

Beginning with foundational courses in narrative structure, character development, and stagecraft, students progressively advance to more complex projects that challenge them to think critically about the relationship between text, performer, and audience. The programme provides extensive opportunities for hands-on experience through workshops, collaborative projects, and production internships. Students learn to work closely with directors, performers, and other creatives, gaining insight into the production process and how to craft work that resonates in a live setting.

Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to engage with contemporary issues and diverse perspectives, fostering critical thinking and social awareness that inform their writing. The programme also explores the integration of digital media and emerging technologies, preparing students for the evolving landscape of performance arts. Students are supported by a team of experienced instructors who are active practitioners in the field, offering mentorship and industry insights.

By the end of the programme, graduates are equipped with a comprehensive portfolio of original works and a solid understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of writing for performance. They are prepared to pursue careers as playwrights, scriptwriters, performance writers, dramaturgs, or to continue their academic studies in related disciplines. The Writing for Performance programme at HKU University of the Arts Utrecht strives to foster innovative creators who can contribute meaningfully to the contemporary performance arts scene worldwide.

Other requirements

1. ingangstoets Om te kunnen studeren bij de HKU, dien je voor deze studie een toelatingstest te doen. Hierbij wordt bekeken of je over de juiste eigenschappen beschikt om succesvol een kunstopleiding te kunnen afronden. Daarnaast is deze toelatingstest voor jezelf een check dat je een studie kiest die bij je past.

The Financing Studies for the Writing for Performance program at HKU University of the Arts Utrecht encompass several key aspects designed to support prospective students in their academic journey. The university offers a variety of funding options, including scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs, to assist students in covering tuition fees and living expenses. International students are encouraged to explore scholarship opportunities such as the HKU Scholarships, which are awarded based on merit and financial need. Additionally, students can consider external funding sources, including government grants, private foundations, and arts-specific funding bodies that support students pursuing arts and performance studies. The university provides detailed information about application procedures, eligibility criteria, and deadlines for these financial aid options on its official website.

Tuition fees for the program vary depending on the student’s nationality and residency status. For international students, tuition fees are set annually and are competitive within the arts education sector, reflecting the high quality of the program. Students are advised to budget for additional costs such as materials, transportation, accommodation, and personal expenses. The university recommends early financial planning and encourages students to apply for funding as soon as possible to maximize their chances of securing financial support.

In addition to scholarships and grants, HKU offers work-study opportunities and part-time jobs tailored to students’ schedules, enabling them to earn income during their studies. The university also provides financial counselling services to help students manage their budgets effectively and explore suitable funding options. International students may additionally access exchange programs and partnerships with cultural institutions, which sometimes offer stipends or residencies to support artistic development.

Overall, the university strives to make its writing for performance program accessible to talented students from diverse backgrounds by providing comprehensive financial support options. While specific details about the exact amount of funding available or the total cost of attendance are not publicly available, students are encouraged to consult the official HKU University of the Arts Utrecht website and contact the admissions and financial aid offices for tailored guidance. Strategic planning and early application are essential for securing the necessary financing to fully participate in the program.

Writing for Performance at HKU University of the Arts Utrecht is a specialized program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to craft compelling written content for theatrical, dance, and performance arts. The curriculum emphasizes the development of creative writing techniques tailored to the unique demands of performance contexts, including scriptwriting, dramaturgy, and textual analysis. Students are encouraged to explore various genres and styles, fostering both originality and adaptability in their writing practices. The program combines theoretical coursework with practical projects, often involving collaboration with performance artists and theater companies, to ensure that graduates understand the real-world applications of their writing.

Throughout their studies, students engage with classic and contemporary texts, gaining a comprehensive understanding of narrative structures, character development, and thematic exploration. They learn to write for different performance formats, including stage plays, dance scripts, and multimedia performances, reflecting the evolving landscape of the arts. Emphasis is placed on fostering a distinctive voice and a sensitive approach to storytelling that resonates with diverse audiences. The faculty comprises experienced playwrights, dramaturgs, and performance practitioners who provide mentorship and industry insights.

The program also underlines the importance of research and contextual knowledge, encouraging students to investigate cultural, social, and political themes relevant to their work. Opportunities for live performance presentations allow students to test their writing in front of audiences, receiving feedback that enhances their craft. Upon completion, graduates are prepared for careers as playwrights, dramaturgs, script consultants, and other roles within the arts sector. The training aims to produce adaptable, innovative writers who can contribute meaningfully to contemporary performance arts communities worldwide.