The Department of Theatre Studies develops its academic identity through three main areas: teaching, research, and social contribution. Its mission is to promote theatre studies as a dynamic field that connects historical knowledge, artistic practice, critical inquiry, and public engagement.
The Department offers a broad educational experience that combines lectures, discussion-based learning, audio-visual material, and practice-oriented courses. Teaching is not limited to conventional classroom instruction, but often extends to screenings, live presentations, workshops, and collaborative student activity.
Particular emphasis is placed on the relationship between theory and practice. In several courses, students participate actively in theatrical exercises, role interpretation, group work, and public presentations under the guidance of faculty members with artistic as well as academic experience.
Learning may also take place beyond the classroom. Students may attend professional performances, visit museums and galleries, and engage directly with theatrical and cultural spaces relevant to the subject of each course. Ancient Greek theatre courses, for example, may include visits to historical open-air theatres.
Research is a central priority of the Department. Special attention is given to the study of Greek theatre and drama, from antiquity to the present, as well as to theatre theory, historiography, performance analysis, and interdisciplinary approaches in theatre studies.
At the same time, the Department recognizes that significant research gaps still remain, especially in areas such as the history of Modern Greek theatre and drama, the systematic study of primary sources, and the development of comprehensive scholarly reference works.
Through publications, conferences, research collaborations, and academic exchange, the Department contributes to the advancement of theatre scholarship in Greece and internationally.
The Department views theatre studies as a field with direct cultural and social relevance. Its activity supports the study, preservation, and dissemination of theatrical heritage, while also contributing to contemporary theatrical life and public understanding of performance.
This contribution is expressed through public lectures, scholarly events, collaborations with institutions and organizations, scientific publications, exhibitions, and the sharing of research outcomes with the wider public.
The Department also works to support students, researchers, and theatre practitioners by developing academic resources such as its theatre library, visual and audiovisual archives, and broader research infrastructure.
The overall aim of the Department is to cultivate a rigorous and outward-looking academic environment in which theatre can be studied historically, theoretically, artistically, and socially. In this way, the Department seeks to connect higher education, research, and cultural life in a meaningful and lasting way.
