The Santa Barbara Institute for Performance Research offers a range of distinctive programs designed to advance both scholarship and practice in performance arts. Our initiatives combine rigorous methodology with immersive experiences in diverse cultural settings around the world.
Duration: 3-6 months
Our flagship program places selected scholars and practitioners in immersive environments across multiple continents. Participants engage in structured inquiry while experiencing diverse performance traditions firsthand. These residencies frequently involve collaboration with local artists and cultural institutions.
Recent residency locations have included Berlin, Vienna, Tokyo, and Mexico City, with participants exploring the intersection of traditional and contemporary performance approaches from various cultural perspectives.
Advanced students and early-career professionals with demonstrated excellence in performance research or practice.
Highly selective, requiring portfolio submission, research proposal, and interview. Applications reviewed quarterly.
Duration: 2-4 weeks
These intensive workshops bring together small groups of performers to explore specific research questions through collaborative practice. Workshops are led by institute researchers and visiting artists from around the world.
Workshops frequently involve travel to partner institutions, particularly in European cultural centers, allowing participants to engage with diverse artistic traditions and methodologies.
Open to performers at various career stages with specific interest in the workshop theme.
Application includes performance samples and statement of interest. Workshop-specific requirements may apply.
Duration: 6 weeks (June-July)
Our annual summer program combines theoretical study with practical application in a structured environment. The program alternates between our Santa Barbara campus and European partner institutions, providing participants with a truly international perspective.
The program includes master classes, research seminars, collaborative projects, and cultural excursions. Participants develop both individual and group projects exploring contemporary performance methodologies.
Advanced undergraduate and graduate students in performance-related fields.
Competitive application process opens in November for the following summer. Early application recommended.
Duration: 2-4 weeks (Available year-round)
Our specialized internship program introduces secondary education students to the world of performance scholarship and practice. Designed to be both educational and inspiring, this program offers young participants hands-on experience in various aspects of artistic investigation and creative development.
Interns collaborate with our faculty on age-appropriate projects, participate in workshops, and gain valuable insights into academic and artistic career paths. International exchange opportunities are available for exceptional candidates.
Secondary education students (ages 14-18) from all educational systems, including high schools, gymnasiums, lycées, and other forms of secondary education, with demonstrated interest in performance arts.
Rolling applications accepted throughout the year. Includes a personal statement of interest, examples of relevant experience or projects, and academic records.
Our programs are highly selective, accepting only a limited number of participants each cycle. We seek individuals who demonstrate exceptional talent, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to advancing the field of performance research.
From advanced researchers to secondary education students, we offer opportunities for various educational levels and career stages. For specific application requirements and deadlines, please contact our programs office.
We encourage all interested individuals to apply, regardless of background or experience level. Many of our most successful participants initially doubted their qualifications. Your unique perspective may be exactly what we're looking for.
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