Dr Stef Kerrigan
Lecturer
Stef joined the University of Chester after completing her PhD studies at the University of Birmingham in 2019. Her recent thesis Postmodern Dramaturgies: Adaptations of Classical Greek Tragedies on the Contemporary Stage highlights her research interest in the intersection of historical and contemporary performance forms.
In addition to her developing research portfolio, Stef’s practical expertise is in performer training. She spent a year under the instruction of Phillip Zarrilli studying three different disciplines: yoga, taiqiquan and kalarippayattu. Stef’s focus on martial arts disciplines and the application in Western-style performer training is applied in her practice as a performer, director and dramaturg, and also features regularly in her studio-based teaching.
Stef teaches a number of modules that focus on core performance skills, performance making and the historical context of drama and theatre. Her teaching spans a number of degree programmes, both undergraduate and postgraduate. Previous and current modules include:
Introduction to Physical and Vocal Techniques
Performance One
Movement and Voice for Performers
Landmarks in Performance
Final Production
Negotiated Study
Dissertation
Performance Practice One
Stef’s research concerns contemporary theatre and performance. Primary research areas include adaptation, postmodern theatrical practice and the ramifications for identity and, most recently, ecodramaturgy. In addition to her more traditional forms of research, Stef is interested in practice as research. Her current project is a performative exploration into the potential of involuntary autobiographical memories; developed by two collaborative partners trying to navigate the histories that exist in our corporeal forms, responding to our variously lived roles including the fictional, constructed, authentic and otherwise.
PhD Drama – University of Birmingham
Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)
PG Certificate in Academic Practice – Manchester Metropolitan University
MA Theatre Practice – University of Exeter
BA (Hons) Drama with Dance – Manchester Metropolitan University