Overview

The Department of Performing Arts offers students a critical and practical investigation of theatre performance that is unlike any other BA programme currently offered in the UK. Our programmes are unique because they place the student at the centre of a practice-led experience enabling them to explore and develop skills and knowledge of theatre primarily through devising their own performances.

Above: Selection of Performing Art photographs taken by Jem Kelly

Student satisfaction: Under the NSS category for Performing Arts & Drama, the University of Chichester is rated 2nd in the country for student satisfaction, according to the National Student Survey 2009. Read more>>

Our academic team comprises published researchers who are also performers and makers, offering students practical expertise and leading-edge knowledge through workshops and devising sessions as well as conventional lectures, seminars and tutorials. From day one, students engage in practical work in our well equipped studios and theatre spaces, with opportunities to act in assessed performances – as early as week 7 – in our 200 seat professional theatre: The ShowRoom.

The ShowRoom offers an extensive programme of performances by both student and professional companies. The professional performance programme receives support from the Arts Council of England South East. For more information, please visit The ShowRoom.

In the three year degree programmes students encounter a broad variety of contemporary theatre practices, whilst specialising in theatre, dance or music. Year on year, students hone and refine their practical skills, performing in a range of contemporary theatre styles and genres, which may also be dance-led, or music-driven, depending on their chosen specialism.

Of primary importance, for all students taking Performing Arts, is the notion of the artist as an engaged communicator, prepared to take responsibility for the creative process and the critical implications of performance. The focus, therefore, is on making new work, with a curriculum emphasising group and teamwork, within a vocational context that prepares students for careers as creative artists. But the interpersonal, group and critical skills acquired in the three years will enable all graduating students to excel in non-performative careers where the ability to communicate effectively is essential.