Department of Acting and Directing

Head of the Department:
Virginija Kuklytė-Gedvilienė 
E-mail: virginija.gedviliene@lmta.lt 

Coordinator:
Raimonda Merkienė
E-mail: teatras@lmta.lt; raimonda.merkiene@lmta.lt
Mob. +370 612 61 053

Address:
Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre Study Campus
Olandų st. 21A, 01100 Vilnius, Lithuania
Room 317

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The Department of Acting and Directing is part of the Faculty of Theatre and Dance (TDF). Over the years, it has become one of the most important academic institutions in Lithuania, which trains professional actors and directors. The department brings together a team of experienced theatre educators and artists who develop innovative theatre study methods, foster creative synergy between different fields of theatre, and integrate international practices into the study process. The department’s activities cover both practical and theoretical aspects of theatre, with faculty members and students actively participating in national and international theatre projects.

Currently, the Department of Acting and Directing offers the following study programmes:

1. Bachelor of Theatre Arts (BA), specialisation – Acting
2. Bachelor of Theatre Arts (BA), specialisation – Directing
3. Master of Theatre Arts (MA), specialisation – Acting
4. Master of Theatre Arts (MA), specialisation – Directing

Bachelor’s Studies in Theatre Arts

During the bachelor’s studies, students acquire fundamental knowledge in acting, directing, and dramaturgy while exploring the history and practices of Lithuanian and world theatre. The study process includes both theoretical and practical courses such as speech techniques, body movement, singing, improvisation, and the psychology of creativity – skills essential for future actors and directors. Over four years, students gain experience through practical training, creative projects, and theatre performances. At the end of their studies, graduates present their bachelor’s theses, which include both practical performances and written research, demonstrating their acquired competencies.

Master’s Studies in Theatre Arts

The master’s program offers an opportunity to explore advanced methodologies in acting and directing, analyze theatre theory, and engage in independent creative projects. Students conduct research, stage productions, and refine their analytical and critical thinking skills. The final master’s thesis consists of both a theoretical and a practical component – this could be an independently performed or directed theatre production accompanied by an in-depth theoretical analysis. The master’s program prepares highly qualified theatre artists capable of working successfully in both national and international theatre industries.

Faculty and Students

The Department of Acting and Directing currently has more than 70 students, taught by some of Lithuania’s most respected theatre professionals, including experienced actors, directors, and theatre scholars. The core faculty consists of around 30 highly qualified lecturers, and each year, up to 15 guest lecturers from Lithuania and abroad contribute to the study process. Visiting artists bring innovative ideas, introduce students to different theatrical traditions, and enrich their creative experiences.

Study Benefits and International Collaboration

The Department continuously strengthens its ties with international theatre academies and creative institutions, providing students with opportunities to participate in Erasmus+ and other exchange programmes. The department collaborates with the European Association of Theatre Schools and Academies (E:UTSA), the International Theatre Network EDE, Nordplus „Norteas“. It actively engages with the Nordplus programme and regional partners in the Baltic and Scandinavian countries, facilitating joint projects, creative residencies, and artistic research.

Students gain practical experience through collaborations with Lithuanian theatres and film productions. Additionally, they participate in theatre festivals in Lithuania and abroad, where they present their work and build valuable professional networks. LMTA students have performed at festivals in Italy, Germany, and Romania, winning awards at the Spoleto Theatre Festival (Italy) for three consecutive years. They also actively participate in international theatre workshops across Norway, Finland, Iceland, Denmark, Germany, Austria, Poland, Italy, Switzerland, and other countries.

Career

Graduates of the Department become professional actors or theatre directors. They work in Lithuanian and international theatres, television, film, advertising, create independent theatre projects, conduct artistic research, and teach in art schools and universities. Some graduates establish their own theatre companies, organize festivals, or engage in cultural management.

Scholarships

• Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students with outstanding academic performance.
• Named scholarships are granted for high achievements in studies.
• One-time scholarships are awarded for exceptional artistic and creative activities.