Applications open for MA in Contemporary Physical Performance Making

The CPPM is founded under the belief that the most intense artistic growth occurs through genuine encounters with inspirational artists – their goal is to allow you to experience some of the most rigorous creative practices and processes currently redefining the boundaries in the field of performance making.

As a CPPM student, you will be working with some of the most innovative, exciting, and renowned international directors, choreographers, artists and companies who have had an impact on the field of contemporary performance and who continue to create ground-breaking work. You will be asked to work to the same levels of commitment and professionalism that these guest artists normally expect in their creative environment. They have all created their own artistic language, vision and unique methodologies, and share the mission of training the next generation of innovative performance makers.

CPPM was created for performance artists from all creative disciplines who wish to develop, rethink or challenge their artistic practice. There is no upper age limit and highly experienced performers and artists are strongly encouraged to apply. During your studies you will form a company with your peers, who come from a range of cultural and artistic backgrounds. Prepare to be inspired just as much as you inspire in a mutual sharing of knowledge, passion, and innovation.

CPPM emphasises that the territory of ‘performance’ is vast and diverse, by challenging the students with the overload of possibilities, ranging from Post-dramatic Theatre, Site-specific and Immersive Performance, Multimedia, Installation and Performance Art, Durational Performance, Verbatim to Political Theatre, to name a few. You will be encouraged to experiment uncompromisingly, questioning artistic norms and your own preconceptions at every step.

However, the ultimate aim of your CPPM experience is not simply to emulate existing practices and methodologies, but to move you closer to a deeper understanding of who you are as an artist and how you choose to work. Through intense, inspirational and eye-opening encounters, challenges, obstacles and breakthroughs, you will hopefully grow closer to your own unique artistic vision.

Overall Learning Outcomes

• Students who have completed the CPPM:
  • have a systematic overview and extensive knowledge of the history, terms, concepts and theories of performing arts as well research and creative methods applied in the field;
  • have an understanding of the contemporary context in which their own practice is situated;
  • know the applications of contemporary performing arts, as well as theoretical and creative developments and topical issues in them;
  • are able to recognise and create links between various disciplines and apply these in their creative activity;
  • are able to independently initiate and conduct international cooperation projects, showing initiative, sense of responsibility, professional managing and teamwork skills, as well as high level of creativity;
  • are able to critically analyse their creative process and their personal development as artists;
  • are able to assess their need for further education and specialised professional development, and command efficient methods of independent learning;
  • are ready for working in areas that require specialised professional skills;
  • are specialists in their field, initiating innovative projects and creating new directions.

Eligibility Criteria

• To qualify for the program, candidates should hold an undergraduate degree, ideally in a field related to performing arts such as theatre, acting, dance, choreography, circus, performance art or performance making.
• Nonetheless, applicants with degrees in other areas may also be eligible if they can present a significant portfolio highlighting their prior artistic practice and experience.
• While candidates with several years of professional experience in the performing arts are preferred, this is not a mandatory criterion for application.
• CPPM is for you, if you:
  • are an emerging or established artist looking for an inspiring, stimulating, and challenging environment to further your artistic practice;
  • are ready to work and train in a highly demanding environment with world-leading artists to gain practical experience of their training methods and creative processes;
  • are ready to fully commit to a two-year artistic roller-coaster experience that will disrupt your understandings and presumptions about theatre and performance;
  • are excited to engage with a thriving local professional theatre and performance scene that is waiting for your input and creativity with open arms;
  • are eager to study, work, and be inspired by peers from different professional and cultural backgrounds, forming friendships, future collaborations, and an artistic family.

For more information, visit Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre.