Performing arts and creative industries research
Theatre and performance research was submitted with English to the Research Excellence Framework submission 2021, which was judged as first in London and second nationally for its 100% four-star research environment and impact.
Our researchers investigate theatre and performance from the contemporary to Renaissance periods, and contemporary arts management practices and policies. Our practice-based research focuses on writing for stage and screen, directing, dramaturgy and policy research. We are home to Birkbeck Centre for Contemporary Theatre, which runs a vibrant programme of public-facing events throughout the year, and hosts an dynamic Fellowship programme composed of leading artists and industry specialists.
Our work has benefitted from working with external partners and organisations, including Camden People’s Theatre, the Dramaturgs’ Network, OSUN, Lyric Hammersmith and numerous other institutions.
We support a large postgraduate community, with a portfolio of specialist MA and MFA degrees, and an MPhil/PhD programme. Postgraduate study is energised by innovative doctoral training events, courses and internship opportunities.
Research centres and institutes
OPEN ACCESS PUBLICATIONS
STAFF RESEARCH PROJECTS AND BOOKS
Recent staff research projects include: Dorothy Richardson Project; Experimenting in the Galleries; Stories in Transit; The Book Unbound; Animate Assembly; Conceiving Histories; A Violent World of Difference.
The newest books from our staff include: Settlements and Strongholds in Early Medieval Britain; Modernism and Physical Illness: Sick Books; Radical Attention; Jonathan Lethem and the Galaxy of Writing; Tomorrow Sex Will be Good Again.
OUR CULTURAL PARTNERS AND NETWORKS
We have formed a number of key collaborations and partnerships to support our research.
Key partners that we have worked with recently are the ICA, National Gallery, Wellcome Collection and Camden People's Theatre.
We have also networked with CHASE, Bloomsbury Colleges Group, Open Society University Network and The University of London/School of Advanced Study.