A new masters launched at UWTSD that caters to the changing art scene in Wales

University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) has developed a new postgraduate qualification, MA Applied Theatre: Community, Education and Wellbeing that focuses on the role of drama and theatre outside of traditional spaces.

By working in partnership with Welsh Government, communities, businesses, schools and other agencies, UWTSD is having a significant impact in this area, making a tangible difference to people’s lives right across the country.

MA Applied Theatre: Community, Education and Wellbeing, which specialises in inclusive theatre, drama and performance practices will welcome its first cohort in September 2024.

The postgraduate degree will include a community-based placement module where students will introduce participatory drama practices in settings such as classrooms, community centres and hospitals, with the aim of having a social, wellbeing and educational impact on those individuals that take part.

Based on the University’s Carmarthen campus, the programme aligns closely with the Well-being of Future Generations Act which recognises and actively promotes arts and culture as an integral part of well-being.

Alison Franks, Lecturer and Programme Manager of MA Applied Theatre said:

“The performing arts are no longer just for those who want to work in the industry as actors or directors. It is also a career pathway that can impact the lives of a range of people and communities.

Wales has a rich history of participatory theatre practice and community arts, and it is so important that we are looking to continue that legacy here at UWTSD.

As a department we already have amazing working relationships with leading arts and theatre organisations such as People Speak Up, Hijinx Theatre, Torch Theatre and numerous local schools and health boards.

We are looking forward to launching this programme and with it the next generation of applied theatre practitioners who will be working with local and national communities, inspiring creativity, change, wellness and education through drama and theatre.”

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Photograph: Courtesy of People Speak up