Prospective directors receive comprehensive training in theater theory and scenic practice. This includes intensive study of historical and contemporary theater texts, philosophy, sociology, politics, literature and art history, as well as the development of practical skills to creatively manage rehearsal processes.
In addition to a wide range of classes (directing, dramaturgy, space, lighting, stage technology, costume design, etc.), students develop their own scenes and projects with the drama students and in cooperation with other Salzburg cultural institutions. Workshops complement and deepen the work.
Dealing with social issues in connection with contemporary aesthetic and methodological approaches is an integral part of the directing course. In addition to the classic techniques of role appropriation, the course also explores ways of acting that, for example, do not require a literary model and take an image, a space or a biography as the starting point for a scenic event.
Aesthetic, philosophical, social questions are worked through practically and theoretically on the basis of given texts as well as free scenic exercises. Trying things out and thinking about them must always be related to each other. In this process, perceptiveness and mental agility are developed, as well as the ability to structure and promote scenic events and work processes. The examination of texts is not done abstractly and theoretically, it is related to space, body and movement as the basic elements of play/acting .
What problems actors have when working on the role, how intentions are conveyed, what can be done to acquire leadership, conflict and dialogue skills, this is learned in rehearsal work with acting students. Likewise, independence, patience and perseverance as indispensable virtues of directors. In addition, the intensive and pleasurable examination of questions of time is to be advanced in dialogue.
The study program is divided into a basic and a main study. In the basic classes (1st semester), acting and directing students learn the basics of acting and improvisation together. The focus is on the fun exploration and development of individual playful possibilities.
In the main course of study, future directors receive comprehensive training in theater theory and scenic practice. This includes intensive study of historical and contemporary theater texts, philosophy, sociology, politics, literature and art history, as well as the development of practical skills to creatively manage rehearsal processes. In addition to a wide range of classes (directing, dramaturgy, space, lighting, stagecraft, costuming, etc.), they develop their own scenes and study projects with the acting students. Workshops complement and deepen the work. The studies are concluded with a diploma production.
Link to semester schedule (1st semester)
A special concern of the Department of Acting, Directing & Applied Theatre is to further develop the study program in constant exchange with current stage and performance practice.
NOTE: The start of studies is only possible in the summer semester.
The prerequisite for the diploma course is passing the entrance examination. Registration for this takes place online in the registration portal for study applicants.
At the time of application, a minimum age of 19 years should be reached. Matura/Abitur is not a mandatory requirement for admission.
A special talent in terms of individual perception and interest in social issues combined with a strong scenic imagination is expected.
The entrance exam for the directing programme consists of several parts. For the first part of the entrance exam, several written papers on given topics have to be submitted.
First round of the entrance exam (updated schedule for 2023/2024)
The written work is to be uploaded as a PDF file in the application form by 03.01.2024.
Second round of the entrance exam
After the submitted documents have been evaluated, selected applicants will be invited to the second round of the entrance examination. This will take place on 24.01.2024 as a Zoom conversation. The invitation will be sent by email.
Third and forth round of the entrance exam
Those applicants who are shortlisted after the Zoom conversation will be invited to the 3rd round. Here, a committee decides through discussions and practical exercises whether to take part in the 4th round (final round) and subsequently whether to be accepted into the directing course of study.
The third and fourth rounds of the entrance examination will take place on 5. and 6.02.2024.
For applicants whose first language is not German, proof of German language skills must be provided.
Here you can find more information about starting your studies:
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