KINGSTON, R.I. – In collaboration with World Strides, the URI Theatre Department is piloting a new study abroad experience in London during J-term 2027, London Theatre: Performances, Historical Context. The program is eligible to run with a minimum of 12 students and students can contribute the trip to their coursework as an elective study. Applications open on September 25, where students are also able to apply for a scholarship to participate in the program.
New courses are developed in collaboration with URI in the World. Their goal is to create faculty-led courses that are built to last as opposed to a once in a lifetime opportunity. J-term in particular is a unique opportunity, explains Michelle Carrara, Education Abroad and Student Mobility Programs Director, for many students. For some, a faculty-led and short-term trip is a testing ground for something longer term. Or, a student is committed to a rigid path that does not allow for a full semester abroad.
“Short term options are a great way to get that international experience without a long-term option. Sometimes, a student will try J-term, fall in love with travelling, and enroll for a full semester abroad when they return,” said Carrara.
Tracy Miller, associate teaching professor of Theatre, worked in collaboration with Alyssa Poey, Senior Education Abroad Advisor, to create the program. With artificial intelligence at the forefront of many academic conversations, Poey felt it imperative to ensure there was an opportunity to explore the humanities and fine arts.
Miller based the model of this new program on her online class, “Ethical Dilemmas in Contemporary Theatre”, and hopes that this experience brings classroom learning to life. Based in central London, the program uses the city as a living classroom, combining live performances, backstage experiences, historical exploration, museum study, professional engagement, and guided reflection.Students will experience a diverse range of productions at leading venues including the National Theatre, Shakespeare’s Globe, and the Bridge Theatre, while exploring London’s rich theatrical history and contemporary performance landscape.
“I’m excited to discuss the plays and discover what struck different people from each production. In turn, my hope is that it will expand their experience as a theatre student. In a way, a trip like this is pedagogical for me as a professor,” said Miller.
Throughout the program, students will examine performance styles, dramaturgy, design, theatre history, production practices, and the relationship between theatre and its communities. Visits to the Victoria and Albert Museum’s Theatre, theatre district walking tours, and behind-the-scenes experiences will expand students’ understanding beyond the stage and provide insight into the institutions, artists, spaces, and histories that contribute to London’s theatrical ecosystem.
By the end of the program, students will have developed a deeper understanding of British theatre traditions and contemporary performance practices while gaining global cultural perspectives and exploring potential careers in theatre and the performing arts.
Open to theatre majors, minors, non-majors, and anyone with a passion or curiosity for theatre, the program offers an exceptional opportunity to experience one of the world’s great theatre capitals from a single home base. https://uri-studyaway.via-trm.com/program_brochure/38622
URI’s Office of International Education (OIE) facilitates a wide range of study away programs including affiliated provider programs, international exchanges, the National Student Exchange program, Faculty Led programs, internships, and other programs, including field-based, sea-based, and service learning/research opportunities.
We’ll help guide you through each step of the study away process: finding the right program for you, the application process, staying on track with your academic goals, affording it, knowing how to stay healthy and safe while you are abroad, getting the most out of your experience, and navigating the transition back home.
Phone: (401) 874-2395
Email: oie@uri.edu