The Master in Theatre and Performance Studies (Master en Arts du Spectacle vivant) at the University Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) offers an interdisciplinary approach to performing arts ranging from theatre, opera, dance over performance to circus, community arts etc. The program will provide you with analytical tools aimed at a better understanding of spectacular representation in the broad sense of the word as well as introducing you the different aspects of present-day theatre in Europe and beyond (dramaturgy, cultural policy, aesthetic codes and so on).

An important part is dedicated to the development of personal work (seminars, internships, thesis) as well as to direct contact with the professional field, both aiming at providing students with the necessary tools for an intelligent, critical analysis of contemporary performance practice. It aims at understanding the spectular (« liveness ») as an integral part of our society, analysing its role and fonction within global culture, while at the same time investigating its relation with other arts and new media. A practice-based workshop (« Sensibilisation à la pratique artistique ») as well as a compulsory internship (8 weeks or 6 weeks) provide a solid basis for the development of reflexive experience. The MA program also offers the possibility to participate in the Avignon Festival and to take optional courses on circus and performance art, respectively at the Brussels-based art schools ESAC (Ecole supérieure des arts du cirque) and La Cambre. Students will immersive themselves in the thriving live art scene of Brussels, as our program closely collaborates with institutions as diverse as Kaaitheater, Brigittines, Théâtre Les Tanneurs.

From 2018-2019 on students following the ULB program will be given the opportunity to enroll for the international MA program “Comparative Dramaturgy and Performance Research” and to spend at least two semesters at one of our parter institutions.