Creating Devised Theatre

– Understand the collaborative processes central to devised theatre.

– Explore techniques for generating ideas and developing narrative collectively.

– Learn physical and vocal approaches for creating performance material.

– Practice shaping and structuring devised works.

– Apply skills through mini projects, with feedback from tutors.

“The words I hear a lot in rehearsal rooms are ‘let’s try this’, ‘let’s see what happens’. The devising projects that Liz Felton facilitated at BOVTS were an essential part of our training where we consistently experimented with new ideas and new ways to tell a story.”

Shane David-Joseph BA Class of ‘19, currently performing with the RSC

“Since graduating from BOVTS and entering the industry, it has become clear that what we learned through our devising experience forms the backbone of how rehearsals and productions are run. It is an experience that feels essential to any theatre-maker.”

Clara Wesley MFA Class of ‘25 currently touring The Spy Who Came in From the Cold

“There have been countless times I have been in auditions especially at the NT and the RSC where improvising and devising movement have been asked for and having had the opportunity to train in this at BOVTS I feel confident in my own creativity. I never felt devising was something I would be skilled at but Liz helped us all to find our footing and develop a process we can reach for again and again.”

Petra Joan-Athene BA class of ‘22, currently touring the Olivier Award Winning Boy at the Back of the class

“Devising taught me to be proactive in the room, to offer ideas with confidence, and to collaborate openly with others. It’s definitely shaped me into a more versatile and imaginative performer not just someone who interprets text but helps bring it to life.”

Dumile Sibanda BA Class of ‘21, currently starring in The Play That Goes Wrong

“I hadn’t devised in this way before. Learning with Liz meant there was such clear structure and tools to play with that I found myself bursting to fill in the gaps and create!”

Hollie Hurrell MFA Class of ‘25, currently adapting Pericles from Liz Felton project last year.

“…devising as a group with Liz was a truly major shift in my training at BOVTS in terms of my confidence and the possibilities of characters I have within me that I can explore. I can’t thank Liz enough.”

Lucy Jarvis-Chase, current MFA