Studying theatre abroad
What is theatre?
Theatre is the art of live performance, where actors, directors, and creative teams bring stories to life on stage. It combines acting, design, movement, and voice to communicate ideas, emotions, and narratives to an audience. Theatre is both a creative and collaborative practice, blending artistic expression with technical skills.
The subject draws on literature, performance studies, stagecraft, and cultural history. As a theatre student, you will learn to interpret texts, develop performances, and work with designers and directors. Your studies may take you from rehearsal rooms to performance spaces, theatres, and community venues.
Why study theatre abroad?
Studying theatre in another country gives you the chance to explore different performance traditions and cultural approaches. You could watch classic productions, participate in local festivals, or join workshops led by international professionals. These experiences help you understand global perspectives on storytelling and performance.
International study also helps you build cross-cultural teamwork skills. You will work with peers from different backgrounds, learn to communicate effectively, and develop a flexible approach to collaboration. These skills are highly valuable for a career in theatre and live performance worldwide.
What you will study
Theatre programmes usually combine practical performance work with theoretical study. Key areas of study can include:
- Acting and Performance: developing character, voice, and movement skills.
- Directing: learning to lead productions and interpret scripts.
- Stagecraft and Design: exploring set, lighting, costume, and props.
- Theatre History and Theory: studying performance traditions and critical analysis.
- Playwriting and Script Analysis: understanding structure, dialogue, and storytelling.
- Production Management: coordinating rehearsals and technical elements.
- Research and Reflection: analysing performances and developing creative responses.
Many courses also include workshops, live performances, internships with theatres, and opportunities to collaborate on productions with other students.
Related subjects you might also like:
- Performance
- Stage Management
- Drama Therapy
- Film and Television Production
- Arts Management
Accreditation
At undergraduate level, you may graduate with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Theatre, Drama, or Performance Studies. Some universities offer degrees with a focus on technical theatre or stage production.
Postgraduate options include Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Theatre, Performance, or Theatre Studies. Specialisations may include acting, directing, stage design, or performance research.
Professional accreditation may also be available through theatre associations or guilds, which can provide recognition and support for your career.
Careers
Graduates in theatre can pursue careers as actors, directors, stage managers, designers, or theatre educators. They may also work in arts administration, community theatre, festival production, or cultural organisations.
Other opportunities include theatre research, dramaturgy, or roles in performance-related media such as television, film, or digital platforms. Theatre skills are valued worldwide, and studying abroad gives you experience of diverse performance practices, preparing you to work on productions internationally.