Study
The MA in Theatre Directing at UEA is one of the longest established in England. One of the founding principles of the MA has always been to establish a firm connection between the academic or critical study of dramatic texts and the director's work with actors. The course acts as a forum for the comparative study of theatre production in several different cultures, often working in the Studio to search for points of intersection between the verbal, emotional and the physical.
Structure
Students get the opportunity in this MA to direct undergraduates in formal contexts where directors and actors will be assessed. There is a regular Scene Class where directors are encouraged to range generically and historically while practising newly learned techniques. Students pursue their chosen modes of practical research independently, producing a written dissertation, a public production, or various combinations of the two. There is even possibility to combine placement at a professional theatre, or Drama School, with written recording and analysis of the rehearsal process, participating as assistant director.
Teaching
The fully equipped Studio Theatre provides an ideal venue for classes, with regular visits from theatre writers, directors and other practitioners. One of the strong appeals of the MA Theatre Directing: Text and Production at UEA is its place within the School of Literature, Drama and Creative Writing, where students benefit from an interdisciplinary approach to their learning, working with experts in other schools of study to tailor their degree.
Employability
All areas of study and exploratory research depend on the individual's interests, ingenuity, strengths and career plans, which may include teaching, writing or doctoral research as well as professional directing. Choices and development will be regularly discussed with each student in personal tutorials.