Theatre & Performance

Studying theatre and performance means learning all about the creative process, and the broader cultural and industrial contexts in which theatre gets made.  

Based at Minghella Studios, the purpose-built home of the Department of Film, Theatre and Television, you’ll have access to a range of professional-level rehearsal and performance spaces – where you'll study alongside other creatively ambitious film and television students. The team of academics leading your studies includes specialists in contemporary British theatre, performance and ecology, set design and scenography, community theatre, scriptwriting and play development. 

As you explore a range of ideas and debates surrounding performance, you’ll also be developing your practical skills (such as set building, lighting design and sound design), receiving hands-on support in your creative projects from our team of technicians. We also set assignments to encourage your growing professionalism – helping make sure you’re well-placed for a career in the creative industries. 

Recent exciting projects include a collaboration with Reading’s South Street Theatre, ‘Work in Progress’. Funded by Arts Council England, the initiative enabled our students to work directly alongside professional theatre companies in developing and performing new work. We also partner with leading regional companies such as Rabble Theatre and Reading Rep, and offer modules focused on career development. 

Our Department proudly subscribes to the industry-leading BAFTA Albert scheme, which supports film-and-television makers in their efforts to work sustainably and limit their environmental impact. By studying with us you'll join one of the UK’s leading Universities in Environment and Sustainability’ Ranked 4th in the world in the People and Planet University Awards 2024/25.