Classical Theatre MA

This unique course is designed for aspiring actors, directors and designers keen to advance their expertise and understanding in a theatre environment. Developed by Sir Peter Hall, one of the world's most distinguished theatre directors, the course asks 'what is classical theatre?' and investigates answers through a mix of theoretical and practical work that covers a range of essential skills. It is taught in the Rose Theatre Studio, Kingston.

What will you study?

You will study the work of leading practitioners of the past and present, situated in their social, political and cultural context. You will also explore:

• genre, history, tradition, convention and cultural context in relation to performance;
• the use of the body in mask and movement;
• the importance of voice and language; and
• the interpretation of text in performance.

The first four modules provide a holistic approach to the teaching and learning. This culminates with a production (the fifth module) at the end of the year, directed by a professional director at the Rose.

The course is basically the same for actors, directors and designers, although special provision will be made for the different skills. The MA is taught by academic staff from Kingston's drama team and visiting professional practitioners, and you will graduate with a level of competence commensurate with work for a professional theatre company.

Research in drama at Kingston is rooted in performance and its social context. It covers carnival, melodrama, devising, black and Asian theatre, theatrical space, historical reconstruction, forms of theatrical performance and acting.

With the opening of the Rose Theatre, Kingston - inspired by the Elizabethan Rose Theatre - the department has a brand new facility and focus for its practical research work.

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Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list.

Core modules

• Form 1: Culture and History
• Form 2: The Body - Mask and Movement
• Form 3: Text and Language
• Form 4: Scene Studies
• Production Project

The Drama Department at Kingston has close links with many professionals within the industry.

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You will have access to studio theatres and rehearsal rooms as well as other facilities.

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Alongside the varied repertoire at the Rose of Kingston, there is a regular programme of student productions and easy access to the rich theatre of central London.

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