This Master's degree in London Theatre explores London; the world’s stage. Learn from a range of relevant industry professionals and dedicated research-active academics.

Why study London Theatre?

The London Theatre postgraduate programme is designed for students who have a thirst to understand the unique contribution that London theatre makes to the development of theatre practices in the UK and why London is recognised as an international centre for theatre development.

This degree gives you opportunities to explore the diverse and ever-changing nature of the theatre scene and critically comment on it through academic study and professional theatre criticism.

The UK theatre scene is a world leader in the creation of new plays, showcasing the most exciting voices in drama.

On the MA London Theatre degree, you will learn how to develop your skills as a theatre critic, writing and reviewing shows on the contemporary London stage. You will practice writing for different kinds of readers, both conventional printed and online publications. You will gain experience of what’s going on in the London Theatre environment by:

• seeing and writing about London plays, actors, writers, directors, theatres and theatre companies
• attending live theatre in London and finding out what is being programmed in London’s West End and Fringe venues
• visiting lectures from industry professionals in a range of roles
• experience of theatre research and critical writing
• the Dissertation module (across two semesters) where you can create your own portfolio of work to showcase your writing skills
• insight into different kinds of writing for theatre and ideas to get started in your writing career.

Teaching methods

You will be taught in small groups or individually. Some core modules are shared with the Playwriting students where you can share practice and create small networks.

Some of the programme is delivered as lecture/seminar sessions responding to work you have seen in London and meeting theatre professionals.

The final dissertation project allows students to either write an academic paper on an aspect of London Theatre or develop a portfolio of theatre reviews. Students will also achieve exit awards PgDip and PgCert.

Assessment methods

Lecture seminars are assessed through essays and theatre criticism pieces which can be developed online and work towards your own graduate portfolio of work.

Career opportunities

Drama St Mary’s graduates have gone on to work in a range of related arts industries. Our courses prepare students to find consistent, professional work in their chosen field.

The module London Fringe introduces you to the area of London theatre where you are most likely to find work in your initial career as a theatre writer, critic or researcher.