Did you know London has around one hundred theatres? Fifteen of which are occupied by subsidized companies. Large commercial theatres can be found in the West End offering a variety of light entertainment, music, ls and comedies. However, London’s theatre scene is not just big-budget productions of Billy Elliot and the Lion King. Off-West End productions feature plays with more individual themes. The most innovative and experimental work is usually found in the ‘fringe’ theatres.
Students enrolled in this course will be offered a ‘taste’ of all these modes of production, and a consideration of state subsidy for theatre within a critical framework. Students course will be introduced to a variety of texts, performances, and theatrical venues that reflect the vitality of contemporary British theatre. Upon completing the course, students will be able to show an understanding of the network of relationships that constitute contemporary British theatre and be able to critically evaluate theatrical performances with an appreciation of technical terminologically and theoretical perspectives, forming an appreciation of aesthetic, academic and political debates in contemporary British theatre.
EXAMPLE CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES (2-4 PER COURSE)
- National Theatre
- Victoria and Albert Museum, Theatre Exhibition
- Various London Theatre Productions
*Please note: A £90 lab fee (covers performances and activities) is required for this course.
Students registered for this course may also be particularly interested in booking a place on our Shakespeare's Footsteps: Culture and History in Stratford-upon-Avon weekend trip. Learn more on our London Activities page.
COURSE OUTLINE
