PHD Theatre

Our research, which encompasses traditional and practice-based forms, addresses the past, present and future of performance, in history and in contemporary culture. It ranges from Shakespeare to applied performance and includes work in theatre history, contemporary dance, actor training, musical theatre, performance and cognitive science, mental health and disability arts, with a particular emphasis on pedagogic research.

PhD researchers on all programmes in GSA can expect three levels of research training and support: 

• University-level training provided by the Researcher Development Programme and the University Library, including a PhD induction, workshops on writing skills and preparation for the confirmation and viva. There is also an annual student-led University Postgraduate conference
• School-level training is offered in the form of interdisciplinary seminars, reading groups, visiting speaker events and conferences
• PhD researchers will also receive subject-specific training through regular reading groups or research seminars. We also host PhD researcher presentations that allow you to share and develop ideas in a supportive environment.

As a research conservatoire, we are fully equipped to offer dedicated time and support to practice research experiments and practical modes of knowledge enquiry. We welcome proposals that will result in a c. 80,000-word thesis or a practice research curated portfolio.

Selected areas of current staff research are outlined below, but supervision of other subjects may be accommodated – please enquire with the Director of Postgraduate Research:

• Actor training 
• Disability and performance 
• Equality, diversity and inclusion in the arts
• Musical theatre
• Pedagogic research
• Performance and cognitive science 
• Shakespeare
• Sustainability and performance  

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