New contemporary theatre degree to strengthen East Anglia’s creative sector

By: Communications

An outside image of the Drama Studio at the UEA campus, a white building with green trees and bushes surrounding it

UEA Drama Studio (credit: Red Tail Media)

A new postgraduate degree designed to support the next generation of theatre-makers is launching at the University of East Anglia (UEA).

Starting this September, the MA in Contemporary Theatre Practice combines advanced theatrical skills training with industry-focused placements, enabling students to gain real-world experience and insight into today’s evolving theatre industry.

Students on the programme will develop as performers, directors, applied theatre practitioners or researchers, with teaching centred around UEA’s professionally equipped 200-seat Drama Studio.

Mike Bernardin, Associate Professor of Drama at UEA, said: “Building on UEA’s strengths in Creative Writing, Drama and Theatre Production, this new MA programme celebrates the future of theatre-making in all its forms, through deep critical thinking and exciting, cutting-edge practice.

“With a range of performance spaces and media facilities on campus, we’re committed to providing students with the skills and confidence to find their own voices. Through strong industry partnerships across the region, they can build the professional connections they need to thrive within the creative industries.”

Securing placements with leading arts venues

The culture, heritage and visitor economy – which includes attractions and events – is one of Norfolk’s largest economic sectors, making up close to 20 per cent of all jobs in the county, according to the current Norfolk Local Growth Plan.

Culture and the arts are considered a key contributor to the region’s visitor economy, with tourism trips alone providing £3.4bn to the Norfolk economy in 2022.

Through the University’s extensive local network, students will be able to secure placements with vibrant, leading arts venues and theatre companies, enabling them to experience firsthand how theatre is made and sustained today.

Stephen Crocker, Chief Executive and Creative Director of Norwich Theatre, said: “Great places are built on rich stories and a wealth of great storytellers.

“As the largest theatre organisation in the region, Norwich Theatre is uniquely placed to support emerging artists as they explore what stories they want to tell and how they want to tell them, and we do that by working in partnership to create genuine pathways into the industry. We particularly champion artists who are finding new ways to connect with audiences.

“This MA is a hugely welcome investment for our region, giving emerging theatre‑makers the skills, space and professional support to develop their voice. Norwich Theatre is delighted to support this new programme, which will play an important role in both developing and retaining creative talent in our region as well as attracting creative talent to come and make work here.”

A long-held reputation in creative arts

With nearly 50 years of experience in drama teaching, UEA has a long-standing reputation for shaping theatre practice locally, nationally and internationally.

The new MA in Contemporary Theatre Practice builds on this legacy by equipping graduates to contribute directly to Norfolk’s growing creative industries and supporting the retention of talent within the region.

It also strengthens the University’s long‑held reputation in the creative arts, reflected in its top two ranking for Drama, Dance and Cinematics graduate prospects and top five for Creative Writing in the Complete University Guide 2026.

The University’s ability to nurture emerging talent is already well demonstrated, through graduates such as Martha Loader – who recently won the prestigious George Devine Award for her original play The Town, developed during her final-year dissertation project.

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