Bristol, United Kingdom

Shakespeare in Performance

Are you interested in a summer school that combines critical theory, archival investigation, and an introduction to the UK’s vibrant performing arts scene? Do you want to extend your learning beyond the classroom and into the theatre? If so, this three-week programme is for you.

This is a summer school that emphasises learning through witnessing. You will learn to contextualise Bristol’s vibrant performance scene in relation to national developments. You will learn to understand the context in which work is produced, explore ways you might communicate that understanding to a wider audience, and examine the aims and challenges of contemporary performance practice in a small-group, collaborative learning environment.

Course leader

Dr. Mark France and other faculty members of the University of Bristol's Department of Theatre, as well as local performing arts creatives and experts.

Target group

We welcome undergraduate students from any academic background who have an interest in performing arts, critical interpretation of the text, Shakespeare, and the UK theatre scene.

Course aim

Over the course of the summer school you will:
* Develop your own critical engagement with what you see
* Be introduced to trends, themes and issues in contemporary UK theatre
* Understand key methods and approaches to engaging with artistic and cultural activities
* Gain critical understanding of the specifics of cultural development and performance in Bristol, in the context of national and international artistic developments
* Learn the critical vocabularies and frameworks for appreciating performance practice and analysing a variety of artistic and cultural forms
* Develop your communication skills, including scripting, editing and presenting, in order to articulate critically informed views of artistic and cultural activities to a wider audience
* Produce a podcast
* Advance your collaborative working and teamwork skills.

Credits info

5 EC
10 University of Bristol credits, suggested as equivalent to 5 ECTS or 2.5-3 US semester credits.

Fee info

GBP 3295: The programme fee includes:
* All tuition, theatre tickets, and workshop costs;
* Single-room university residence accommodation, with a half-board meal package throughout;
* 24-7 support from the Global Summer Schools team, as well as University of Bristol student leaders, who are also available to help with your questions and lead activities;
* An exciting social programme, including trips within and outside of Bristol (including London and Stratford Upon Avon) to watch performances and engage in theatre-based workshops;
* Transfers within Bristol from the airport, coach station or train station to residence on arrivals and departures day.

Scholarships

We offer a £300 discount for mobility partner students and for early-bird applicants who apply by 1 April 2022.