Introduction to the Department of Drama & Theatre Studies

The Department of Drama & Theatre Studies at Mary Immaculate College was established in June 2015 with Dr. Michael Finneran as the founding Head of Department.

Undergraduate Level

At undergraduate level, the department offers a number of pathways to study drama and theatre. The BA in Drama and English (MI010) is offered in conjunction with the Department of English Language and Literature. This degree develops critical thinking, problem-solving, and excellent writing and communication skills.

BA in Drama and English (MI010) Modules

The modules for the BA in Drama and English (MI010) include:

• Semester 1 (Year 1)
  • Introduction to Drama, Theatre and Performance
  • Modern Irish Theatre (1601 - 1960)
  • Introduction to Literature 1
  • Adaption: Page to Stage and Screen
• Semester 2 (Year 1)
  • Introduction to Acting and Ensemble
  • Contemporary European and World Theatre
  • Introduction to Literature 2
  • Literature and Drama of the "Long" Eighteenth Century
• Semester 3 (Year 2)
  • Contemporary Irish Theatre (1960 - Today)
  • Scenography and Technical Theatre
  • The Novel in the 20th and 21st centuries
  • Utopian and Dystopian Literature
  • Students to select 1 of the following:
    • Introduction to Devising Theatre
    • Critiquing Theatre
    • Cultural Policy and Administration
    • Musical Theatre in Performance
    • Ensemble Performance Elective 1
    • Development of Modern Drama
    • Teaching English as a Foreign Language 1
• Semester 4 (Year 2)
  • Performance and Music
  • Applied and Social Theatre
  • Irish Poetry and Prose in English
  • Literature and Society
  • Students to select 1 of the following:
    • History of Theatre and Performance
    • Drama and Theatre Education
    • Contemporary Theories of Performance
    • Masks and Puppetry in Performance
    • Storytelling and Poetry in Performance
    • Ensemble Performance Elective 2
    • Teaching English as a Foreign Language 2
• Semester 5 (Year 3)
  • Students to select 1 of the following:
    • Placement 1
    • Study Abroad Semester 1
• Semester 6 (Year 3)
  • Students to select 1 of the following:
    • Placement 2
    • Study Abroad Semester 2
• Semester 7 (Year 4)
  • Core Ensemble Performance
  • Literary Modernism
  • Interpreting Literature
  • Undergraduate Research Project 1
• Semester 8 (Year 4)
  • Directing and Writing for Theatre
  • Young People, Education, and Theatre
  • Romantic Literature in English
  • Elizabethan/Jacobean Theatre: Shakespearean Drama and its Contexts
  • Undergraduate Research Project 2

BA in Liberal Arts (Drama & Theatre Studies) (MI002) Modules

The modules for the BA in Liberal Arts (Drama & Theatre Studies) (MI002) include:

• Year 1
  • DT4711: Introduction to Drama, Theatre and Performance (6 Credits)
  • DT4714: Contemporary European & World Theatre (6 Credits)
• Year 2
  • DT4715: Ensemble and Devising in Theatre (6 Credits)
  • DT4714: Contemporary Irish Theatre 1 (6 Credits)
  • DT4722: Social & Applied theatre (6 Credits)
  • DT4754: Performance & Music (6 Credits)
• Year 3
  • OC4310: Off Campus Placement Programme 1 (30 Credits)
  • OC4320: Off Campus Placement Programme 1 (30 Credits)
• Year 4
  • DT4733: Contemporary Irish Theatre 2 (6 Credits)
  • DT4747: Directing & Writing for Theatre (6 Credits)
  • DT4767: Undergraduate Dissertation 1 (6 Credits)
  • DT4728: Contemporary Performance Theory (6 Credits)
  • DT4734: Storytelling & Poetry in Performance (6 Credits)
  • DT4758: Undergraduate Dissertation 2 (6 Credits)

Postgraduate Level

The department's full-time faculty conduct and supervise research in a number of aspects of drama and theatre studies, particularly in contemporary theatre and performance practices, applied drama and theatre, theatre for young audiences, performance studies, and practice as research. The department is home to an ever-expanding range of research studies at PhD level.

Studying Drama at Mary Immaculate College

Mary Immaculate College has rapidly become one of the most desirable places in Ireland to study drama at third level. The campus is rich in artistic provision, and the relationship with visiting artists and the two linked professional venues (Lime Tree Theatre and Belltable) is central to the teaching and research. The drama programmes are designed to accommodate all students passionate about drama, including those who wish to pursue a career in performance.

University of Limerick

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Overview:

University of Limerick (UL) is a public research university located in Limerick, Ireland. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and innovation. UL is ranked among the top 3% of universities worldwide and is a leading institution in Ireland for its contributions to research, teaching, and community engagement.

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Services Offered:

UL offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Library:

The Glucksman Library provides access to a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources.

Student Gateway:

This online portal provides access to student information, course materials, and other important resources.

Accommodation:

On-campus accommodation options are available for students, with a variety of choices to suit different needs and budgets.

Cafés and Restaurants:

The campus has a variety of dining options, including cafes, restaurants, and a student-run Coop.

Sports Facilities:

UL Sport offers a wide range of sports facilities and activities for students, including a state-of-the-art sports arena.

Student Support Services:

The university provides a range of support services to students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UL offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience, with a strong emphasis on student engagement and community involvement. Students can participate in a wide range of clubs, societies, and events, both on and off campus. The university also has a strong focus on sustainability and social responsibility, with initiatives aimed at promoting environmental awareness and community engagement.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Programs:

UL offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, with a focus on research and innovation.

Vibrant Campus Life:

The university provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience, with a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities and social events.

Research Excellence:

UL is a leading research institution in Ireland, with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration.

International Focus:

The university has a strong international focus, with a diverse student body and a commitment to global engagement.

Location:

UL is located in Limerick, a vibrant city with a rich history and culture.

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Academic Programs:

UL offers a wide range of academic programs across seven faculties:

Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as history, law, modern languages, politics, English, Irish, and sociology.

Education and Health Sciences:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as physical education, psychology, medicine, education, nursing, and allied health.

Kemmy Business School:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as accounting, finance, economics, management, and marketing.

Science and Engineering:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as computer science, electronic engineering, mathematics, statistics, design, and engineering.

Irish World Academy of Music and Dance:

This academy offers programs in traditional Irish music and dance.

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Other: