MA Theatre Directing Text and Production

About

The MA Theatre Directing at UEA is one of the longest established in the UK. Each year we select only a very small number of Theatre Directing students – creating a close, collaborative environment. 

This is a highly intensive year’s work, balancing the advancement of your intellectual frames of reference for understanding modern theatre, with continual, hands-on opportunities to test and develop your practical skills. Collaboration with fellow students is key – and you’ll gain from working with undergraduate actors throughout the year. 

You’ll have the chance to study and interrogate the legacy of post-war British theatre, and pass exams qualifying you to climb the studio’s tallescope to change a lantern. You will encounter critical studies in contemporary theatre practice whilst working with acting students, to sharpen your directorial skills in workshops, scene classes and productions. 

Your optional studies include world-class modules in scriptwriting, theatre and radical dramaturgies, television and society, adaptation and interpretation.  

You’ll showcase your development and learning through your final dissertation – which could take the form of a full production, a written research or creative project, or a bespoke combination of any of these. 

On graduating from this MA, you’ll be equipped with both the skills and the vocabulary to direct actors with confidence, and to bring conceptual creativity to your work in the technical and plastic elements of the stage. You’ll be ready to apply for assistant director positions in major companies and to go out and make work of your own for small and medium scale venues. 

You’ll also be able to critically analyse written and performed work with insight into theatre methodologies and theatre-making practices. This makes you well-placed to move into an academic or journalistic career.