MA in Performance Research

This programme offers two pathways, allowing you to develop your interest in a range of critical, conceptual and practical issues surrounding performance while making the most of the expertise available. The Department of Drama is currently rated as one of the leading drama departments in the country for research; it houses one of the UK's foremost archives for theatre-related materials (the Theatre Collection), and has played a pivotal role in the establishment of practice-as-research as a creative and rigorous research methodology within Theatre and Performance Studies.

Archives Pathway

This pathway offers students the opportunity to work intensively with the University of Bristol Theatre Collection, one of the world's largest archives of British theatre history and live art and an accredited museum. Its holdings include the internationally renowned Mander and Mitchenson Collection. Students following this pathway will explore theoretical and critical approaches to archives, be taught by archive and museum professionals, undertake a three month placement in the Theatre Collection (or in one of Bristol and the South West's many other museums and archives) and develop independent archival research projects based on the Theatre Collection's holdings.

Practice-as-Research Pathway

This pathway offers students the opportunity to develop advanced critical research skills through creative practice, taught by practitioner-scholars, who are leaders in the development of practice-as-research in performance studies, and supported by specialist design and production skills teaching, in well-equipped theatre and rehearsal spaces. In addition, students benefit from active links and placements with local creative-industry partners such as Arnolfini, Bristol Old Vic, Tobacco Factory, In Between Time Productions, and the University's Theatre Collection. Students will ultimately undertake sustained research to produce a major piece of practice as part of their dissertation. Our alumni have continued successful careers as individual artists, as well as using the course to advance the group practice of emerging companies.

Core Units

• Working with Archives

• Methods and Questions in Performance Practice as Research

Optional units

• Critical Theory
• Performance Place/Space
• Performing Theatre Histories
• Curating the Archive
• Performance Action/Direction
• Performing the Body
Other units across the Faculty are available

Supervised independent study will form an important part of your work and will allow you to tailor the programme to match your interests and strengths.

Dissertation

Over the summer you will work on a dissertation (through essay or practice).