Studying at the Institute of Theatre Studies (ITW) in Bern cultivates a versatile academic approach to a broad field of study. The study of theatre spans a wide range of cultural phenomena, from theatre and dance performances, dramatic, theatrical, performative, and choreographic practices, cultural, historical, social, and political movements, through to self-staging, such as that on social media platforms. At the ITW, theatre studies students gain historical, aesthetical, and theoretical perspectives of such theatrical and performative phenomena and events. ITW courses include European theatre and dance history, contemporary theatre and dance creation from both regional and global perspectives, theories of theatre, dance and cultural studies, and theatre and dance aesthetics.
The organisational chart illustrates the structure of the Institute of Theatre Studies (ITW).
The Institute of Theatre Studies (ITW) regularly cooperates with various institutions and key players from academia and cultural practice, in teaching and research.
Theatre History:
The history of theatre covers European theatre from the ancient world to the present day, as well as the methods and discourse of theatre historiography. In line with the founding mission of the Institute of Theatre Studies (ITW), particular focus is given to Swiss theatre history. During the eight-semester programme, students are provided with a chronological overview of the diverse social, political and cultural historical conditions of European theatre.
Dance Studies:
Within the broad field of theatre studies, dance studies considers the phenomena and processes of dance, choreography and performance. The central focus is on artistic expressions, practices, and surrounding discourses in Europe and the West from the 17th to the 21st century. Additionally, the broader study of social dance forms, bodily and movement practices, and global phenomena raises critical questions about the construction of dance history.
Contemporary Theatre:
The Institute of Theatre Studies (ITW) explores contemporary theatre, examining local, regional and global phenomena and processes of its creation, as well as the meaning and construction of the 'contemporary' in theatre and cultural studies discourse. Current research focuses on institutional change and critique in the European performing arts. Topics include festival culture, evolving working methods in contemporary theatre, dramaturgical strategies in contemporary performance theatre, and theatre in the context of digital transformation.
