Tribhuvan University is set to formally introduce theatre studies as an academic program. The university will offer a Postgraduate Diploma in Theatre Studies.
The one-year program will be offered under the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. According to Dean Prof Dr Dhrubanand Dhakal, the course is expected to begin in Magh, provided all necessary preparations are completed. The program will be operated under a self-sustaining financial model.
The curriculum for the program, titled Theatre Studies, has already been prepared. The Standing Committee of the University Academic Council approved the curriculum on August 3. According to Dhakal, the curriculum covers the history of theatre, theatre theory, traditions, theatre pedagogy, research, and practical theatre exercises.
Kedar Shrestha, chairperson of the Nepal Centre of International Theatre Institute and a theatre practitioner, said the initiative would be significant in institutionalising Nepali theatre and fostering a stronger theatre culture in the country.
This will be the first time a university in Nepal has formally offered theatre as an academic subject. Cinema and music are already being taught at universities in the country.
