Master of Arts - Applied Theatre and Education

The MA Applied Theatre and Education explores the practice of theatre and drama in non-traditional settings and with marginalised communities, examining how theatre within communities can be transformative and contribute to social change. The course covers theatre practices with young people in care, wellbeing and prison settings, schools, older communities, refugees, and people with disabilities.

This programme is uniquely situated within Derby Theatre, a professional producing theatre, and includes specialised Education modules. Students can select from modules focusing on understanding contexts, emotional intelligence, addressing future challenges, and driving educational transformation. The course emphasises reflexivity, positionality, skill development, knowledge exchange, and evaluating innovation to inform education policy and practice.

Students deepen their knowledge and practice in Applied Theatre critically and creatively as performers, directors, or facilitators, and develop the ability to interpret, understand, and conduct practice-as-research relevant to theatre and education at a masterly level. The course includes opportunities to create work with allocated budgets and access to facilities for off-site delivery or studio theatre, preparing students for employment through work opportunities and a vibrant network of companies and artists. Professional practice is undertaken within Derby Theatre and alongside a thriving community of local artists and companies including Hubbub, Anansi, 1623, LaPelle’s Factory, and Maison Foo.

Derby Theatre, as a Learning Theatre, provides a unique platform for students to develop craft by working alongside academics and theatre professionals in a professional producing environment. Collaboration between students, academics, and artists underpins the development of both artistic and learning opportunities. The theatre supports real-life learning through main stage and studio programmes, as well as community work with young people, young people in care, and emerging artists. Graduates can also access ongoing support through the Artist Development Programme, In Good Company, part of a large regional funding initiative.