MA World Performances, Theatres & Cultures

Goldsmiths, University of London

United Kingdom, London

University Rank:#711

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Duration1 year(s)

Tuition Fee

GBP 28,121 / Year

Next IntakeSeptember 22, 2026

MA World Performances, Theatres & Cultures

About

Covering historical and philosophical bases of theatre and performance practices from different parts of the world, this Masters investigates indigenous and contemporary performance and theatre traditions from a variety of cultural contexts.

This programme is one of the few taught Masters of its kind.
You’ll be introduced to the whole range of drama, theatre and performance practices from many areas of the world.
This degree trains graduates for employment in a range of positions in theatre, government, the cultural sector, and higher education, that require solid intellectual preparation and knowledge of the field.
You’ll cover the historical contexts and philosophical bases of theatre and performance practices from different parts of the world, some of which are rarely introduced in UK higher education. This will involve studying the indigenous and contemporary performance and theatre traditions from a variety of cultural, national and international contexts.
Where possible, you’ll be provided access to industry opportunities in order to extend your study, in particular with our new Associate Organisation, LIFT, and its biennial festival of international theatre, as well as its on-going programme of activities.

Contact the department

If you have specific questions about the degree, contact Professor Osita Okagbue.

Requirements

Entry Requirements

Successful applicants will normally hold a first degree at 2:1 level or higher (or its equivalent in the case of applicants from abroad) in an arts or humanities subject.

For candidates with unrelated degrees/backgrounds, they must demonstrate a keen interest in the theatre evidenced by having previously taken part in productions as a performer, writer/critic, director or producer.

In all cases, you must demonstrate in your written application/personal statement and at interview that you have an interest in theoretical and analytical work and that you are able to meet the intellectual demands of a programme designed to be theoretically challenging.

You will be expected to engage with historical research, as well as have some awareness of how world contemporary performance and theatre involves a diversity of forms, practices and traditions.

Criteria for entry into the programme also includes independence, self‐motivation, intellectual and personal initiative, and commitment to scholarly investigation, especially investigation into performance practices.

International qualifications

We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Find out more about the qualifications we accept from around the world.

If English isn’t your first language, you will need an IELTS score (or equivalent English language qualification) of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0 to study this programme. If you need assistance with your English language, we offer a range of courses that can help prepare you for postgraduate-level study.

English Requirements

IELTSMin 6

English Program Requirements

To study at Goldsmiths, you will need to demonstrate that you have a good level of written and spoken English. IELTS requirements for each programme can be found on the relevant programme page.

Career

Where this degree can take you

The broad range of interests combined in this programme will prepare you for a diverse range of employment and/or a portfolio of careers in theatre and performance as well as the arts industry as a whole in different socio-cultural environments:

Facilitation and animation in both mainstream, applied and community theatre contexts nationally and internationally
Administrative and support services
Government organisations (immigration, cultural policy, funding bodies)
Journalism and broadcasting (including radio, television and print journalism)
Teaching at all levels
Interpretation and translation in theatre and performance contexts
Acting, directing, design

In addition, you can use this programme as a springboard for further study, either vocational or intellectual (including entry into MPhil/PhD programmes).

In short, the multiple skills – intellectual, critical and creative – developed by this programme will provide you with the flexibility of thought and approach necessary for creative insertion into the global job market.

Extramural activities

The department is home to the African Theatre Association (AfTA) and its bi-annual journal, African Performance Review.

The Department of Theatre and Performance has close links with two research centres: The Pinter Centre for Performance and Creative Writing and The Centre for the Body, that each generate learning opportunities via programmes of talks, conferences and workshops.

The department runs regular extramural activities, including hosting international practitioners in the Performance Research Forum (Dis-Play) series. The department’s special relationship with the Goldsmiths Confucius Institute and its association to the Beijing Dance Academy also contributes to the global performance practice opportunities offered. Together, these organisations provide a unique research and professional resource for students on Theatre and Performance programmes.

Find out about the Goldsmiths Careers Service

Fee Information

Tuition Fee

28,121 / year

MA World Performances, Theatres & Cultures

Goldsmiths, University of London

United Kingdom, London

Go to Official Website