Theatre SPACEs is the first Erasmus Mundus Joint Master programme focusing on theatre in social, participatory art, community and educational contexts. It is offered by universities in Norway, Ireland, Romania, Germany and the Czech Republic, each of which brings its own unique expertise to the collaboration. Theatre SPACEs offers much more than just a Master degree, it is an extensive cultural journey in which you will study in at least three countries. Upon successfully completing the programme (four semesters, 120 ECTS), you will receive a joint degree awarded by the partner universities.

Most outstanding candidates receive a scholarship of €1,400 per month for 24 months to help cover travel, visa and living expenses. Applications are open to candidates from any country in the world.

Applications for the 2027 intake are now open.

The deadline is 1 December 2026.

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Theatre SPACEs relies on the close collaboration of five universities:

Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (coordinator),
Trinity College Dublin,
University of Arts Targu Mures,
University of Hamburg (associated partner) and
The Academy of Performing Arts in Prague (associated partner)

Theatre in Contexts is a recent term used to describe a variety of performative practices that aim to contribute to societal, pedagogical or community change. Such performative practices usually

Involve non-professionals (e.g. citizens, pupils, community members, substance users, activists, etc.);
Occur in non-conventional theatre spaces (e.g. hospitals, schools, public squares, prisons and museums);
Focus on topics relevant to the given community (e.g. poverty, bullying, inequalities and climate change);
Contain a specific changemaking objective (e.g. communicating with decision-makers, developing competencies, including minorities, sharing personal stories with the wider community, etc.).

As well as covering a wide range of European approaches and methods, the programme will focus on adapting and implementing the methods learned within different cultures and contexts. It includes participatory learning, field visits, group projects, elective courses, artistic research, and longer periods of fieldwork with labour market partners worldwide. The programme also has a strong academic and theoretical component, qualifying dedicated students to enrol on a PhD programme and continue their academic career in research.

After completing the Master programme, you will have many career opportunities.

In educational contexts, you will be prepared to work in schools, youth theatres, or nonformal education centres, facilitating creative learning for children, young people, and diverse communities.
In cultural contexts, you could create participatory and educational programmes in theatres, museums, libraries, or galleries, or design community-focused performances in public spaces.
In social and health contexts, you could work in hospitals, refugee centres, care homes, or NGOs as a practitioner using theatre for wellbeing, rehabilitation, or inclusion.
In community contexts, you could collaborate with youth groups, women’s organisations, charities, or environmental associations, using applied theatre to inspire dialogue and change.