Theatre & performance
Learn why live performance matters in a media-savvy world
Explore live performance in all its diversity through theatre and performance studies at UNSW. Be part of stage plays with professional directors, work with a team on collaborative creations, stage an action in public spaces or undertake work as a solo performer. Studying theatre and performance will help you uncover the creativity of performance around us.
Our academics are experts in both theory and practice. You’ll study theatre history, contemporary performance, writing and performing, live arts, multimedia, dance and entertainment. Our courses combine practical experience with intellectual exploration and will prepare you for a career in the creative arts.
Gain practical industry experience
Our courses are industry-linked. There are opportunities to collaborate with professional artists and gain experience with production companies, venues and publishers such as Australian Theatre for Young People, Bangarra, Belvoir, Carriageworks, Critical Path, Force Majeure, Griffin Theatre, Hayes Theatre, Milkcrate Theatre, PACT Centre for Emerging Artists, Performance Space, Performing Lines, Sydney Dance Company, Sydney Festival, Sydney Opera House, Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Sydney Theatre Company, Trackdown Studios, and Urban Theatre Projects.
Enjoy access to our modern performance spaces
The UNSW Creative Practice Lab brings creativity to life with state-of-the-art teaching, studio and workshop spaces. The specialised lab manages the school’s performance venues, rehearsal studios and technical resources, including the brand new Esme Timbery Creative Practice Lab. Students, researchers and artists have the chance to develop new work and participate in several events and performances throughout the year.
Combine creative practice with a range of interdisciplinary electives
Studying theatre and performance will open doors to acting on stage and beyond. You’ll learn skills in practical collaboration and in-depth critical analysis, which will support your study across multiple disciplines. With a diverse range of skills, students are prepared for careers in:
- performance making
- producing and directing
- scriptwriting
- arts management and administration
- communications and journalism
- reviewing art and theatre
- event management and publicity
- teaching drama in secondary schools
- education and research.
You’ll also be free to study theatre and performance in combination with other subjects like business, communications, creative writing, English, film studies, history, languages, marketing, media, music, philosophy, sociology and anthropology.
