Historically, one of the problems of training in the area of theatre has been the separation between the pratical training of practitioners and technicians and the academic training of dramaturgs and critics. This course, which is unique in the national context, aims to address this situation throught a combination of theoretical and practical study which educates practitioners and technicians to reflect on their practice in the light of theatrical tendencies and critical movements and educate dramaturgs and critics to be conscious of the practical constraints and opportunities of theatre work. The six laboratories form a cultural interface between the university and the community.

The decision to incluse the study of the theatre within the wider remit of the performing arts results from a recognition that theatrical experiences ar increasingly interdisciplinary and intercultural, challenging borders between theatre, dance, architecture and music as well as national frontiers.