University of Texas at Austin Campus
Executive Master of Arts in Journalism
On Campus
University of Texas at Austin Logo
University of Texas at Austin
Austin
United States

Theatre - Performance as Public Practice

About

The Theatre – Performance as Public Practice program offers an interdisciplinary and applied study of performance, creative writing, and public engagement. Over two years, students explore performance theory, dramaturgy, storytelling, and audience interaction, integrating practical workshops with research-based inquiry. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, creative expression, and collaborative practice, enabling learners to develop performances that engage, challenge, and inspire diverse audiences. Through seminars, studio work, and applied projects, students gain the expertise necessary to advance public performance, creative expression, and community engagement.

Students also participate in collaborative productions, research projects, and performance-based workshops, fostering both creative and professional competencies. Mentorship from experienced faculty provides guidance in performance techniques, narrative development, and public presentation, preparing students to address complex social, cultural, and artistic challenges. By the end of the program, graduates leave with strong analytical, creative, and production skills, equipped to contribute effectively to theatre performance, public engagement, and creative projects.

Key information

Duration
-
Tuition fee
$19,212.00/year
Start dates & application deadlines
-
More details
-

Key Facts

  • Program Title: Theatre - Performance as Public Practice
  • Degree Type: Master of Arts
  • Duration: 2 years
  • Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
  • Application Deadline: 15 December 2025
  • Location: University of Texas at Austin, United States
  • Field of Study: Creative Writing
  • Language of Instruction: English

Program Structure

Semester 1 – Foundations in Theatre and Creative Practice

  • Introduction to Performance Studies
  • Fundamentals of Dramaturgy and Scriptwriting
  • Creative Writing for Performance
  • Workshop: Collaborative Performance

Semester 2 – Applied Theatre and Public Practice

  • Community-Based Performance Projects
  • Advanced Performance Techniques
  • Research Methods in Theatre and Performance
  • Capstone Project / Public Performance

Semester 3 – Specialization & Creative Development

  • Performance as Social Practice
  • Advanced Script and Narrative Development
  • Applied Research in Performance Contexts
  • Elective Modules in Theatre or Creative Writing

Semester 4 – Final Project & Public Engagement

  • Independent Performance Project / Thesis
  • Audience Engagement and Evaluation
  • Seminar: Professional Portfolio Development

Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared for careers as performance artists, theatre practitioners, creative directors, dramaturgs, and arts educators. They may work in theatre companies, cultural organizations, arts festivals, community projects, or educational institutions. The program equips students with skills in performance production, scriptwriting, audience engagement, and collaborative creation, enabling them to contribute to innovative performance practices and public art initiatives. Alumni often participate in performance projects, community engagement programs, and creative writing initiatives. With applied creative and professional expertise, graduates gain a distinctive advantage in theatre, performance, and public practice careers.

Why Choose This Program

This program is ideal for students seeking advanced training in theatre, performance, and public engagement with both applied and research-based experience. The two-year structure allows learners to develop foundational skills, engage in applied workshops and community projects, and complete a capstone under faculty mentorship. By participating in seminars, studio projects, and collaborative productions, students cultivate critical thinking, creative skills, and professional competencies in performance and public practice. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, audience-centered strategies, and creative innovation, preparing graduates to make meaningful contributions to theatre, community engagement, and creative performance initiatives.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact the admissions office at:

Phone: +1 (512) 471-3434
Email: gradadmissions@utexas.edu
Address: 110 Inner Campus Drive, Stop G1800, Austin, TX 78712, USA