Program Overview
Directing Circus
MA
Postgraduate degree
About the Course
Become a new kind of performance director, voicing circus as a 21st-century artform.
This MA is for makers of circus. It's been developed to address a recognised need across the global circus community to create and support a new kind of performance director – one who is aware of the possibilities and challenges of using circus techniques in an artistic context. The course gives the opportunity to work in a new medium and in a dynamic and developing artform.
As an MA student, you’ll engage in both group and independent learning. You’ll have the chance to work with world-leading professionals in the industry and debate the most recent developments in circus and physical theatre performance and direction.
You’ll get the chance to study a range of research methodologies, as well as roles, strategies, and practical skills for directing circus. The tutors at Circomedia encourage you to explore the need for directors to be originators, facilitators, and to deliver new circus performance to a waiting public.
All kinds of directors are welcome to apply for this course. As well as circus, our applicants have backgrounds in visual art, live art, theatre, dance, and street performance. Each student is encouraged to bring new flavours to the creation of circus performance.
Fees
2025 entry
- UK full time: £9,590
Additional Course Costs
You may need to pay additional course costs over and above your tuition fees, for example, for specialist equipment or trips and visits. Please check the course Programme Document for details of any additional costs. You can also read our Additional Course Costs Policy for further information.
Funding Opportunities
Please visit our Funding pages for an overview of the funding options that may be available, including scholarships and bursaries.
Entry Requirements
This course suits individuals who have professional or semi-professional experience, either as a circus-artist performer who is interested in moving into directing, or as a theatre-based director who is interested in moving into circus-based work.
You’ll ideally have a background in circus, physical theatre, or directing, or a related subject area, acquired through previous study as well as experience through work or other means that will show you have the ability to succeed in the programme. See our Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) web page to learn more.
How to Apply
Ready to apply? Click the "apply now" button.
Need more guidance? Head to our how to apply webpages.
When to Apply
Many of our postgraduate courses have a limited number of student spaces. To avoid the disappointment of the course being full, we recommend that you apply now.
Late applications (generally those made after 31 July) will only be considered if places remain on the course.
Need more information or still have questions? Contact us to discuss your situation.
Contact Us
Admissions:
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Course leader:
Related Courses
- Directing
- Composition
- Creative Producing
- Scriptwriting
Key Facts
- Award: MA Directing Circus
- School/s: Bath School of Music and Performing Arts
- Taught by: Circomedia
- Course length: One year full-time
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Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This MA is designed to create and support a new kind of performance director – one who is aware of the possibilities and challenges of using circus techniques in an artistic context. The course gives the opportunity to work in a new medium and in a dynamic and developing artform.
Teaching:
The course is taught by Circomedia, Bristol.
Other:
This course suits individuals who have professional or semi-professional experience, either as a circus-artist performer who is interested in moving into directing, or as a theatre-based director who is interested in moving into circus-based work. You’ll ideally have a background in circus, physical theatre or directing, or a related subject area, acquired through previous study as well as experience through work or other means that will show you have the ability to succeed in the programme.
Bath Spa University
Overview:
Bath Spa University is a public university located in Bath, England. It is known for its focus on creative and professional subjects, offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The university boasts a strong commitment to social inclusion and sustainability, reflected in its numerous awards and recognitions.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
Bath Spa University offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can enjoy access to various facilities, including modern teaching spaces, creative technical workshops, and flexible studio spaces. The university also provides opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities and events.
Key Reasons to Study There:
*
Strong focus on creative and professional subjects:
Bath Spa University offers a wide range of programs in areas such as art, design, media, music, education, and business. *Commitment to social inclusion and sustainability:
The university has been recognized for its efforts in promoting social inclusion and sustainability, making it an attractive choice for students who value these principles. *Vibrant campus life and strong sense of community:
Students can enjoy a lively campus experience with a supportive and welcoming environment. *Location in Bath:
The university is situated in the beautiful city of Bath, offering students access to a rich cultural heritage and a thriving city center.Other:
Bath Spa University has multiple campuses, including Newton Park, Locksbrook, and BSU London. The university also offers study opportunities through its UK and international partners.
We're generally looking for a good honours degree or equivalent. Some courses also require an interview or the submission of a portfolio of work.
