New Episode of Sviðsljósið: A New MA Program and the Future of Performing Arts

In this episode of Sviðsljósið, host Salka Guðmundsdóttir sits down with Kristín Eysteinsdóttir, Rector of the Iceland University of the Arts (IUA), and Una Þorleifsdóttir, Dean of the Performing Arts Department.

The Evolution of Post-Graduate StudiesThe focus of the conversation is the significant update to the Master’s program in Performing Arts at IUA. While the program has been active since 2016, it is now being restructured to offer clearer specializations in Directing, Performance Making, Choreography, and Playwriting. The goal is to provide artists with the necessary space to refine their craft and develop their unique artistic voice within a collaborative academic environment.

25 Years of ImpactReflecting on the 25th anniversary of the Iceland University of the Arts, the guests discuss how the institution has fundamentally reshaped the Icelandic performing arts scene. They explore the vital connection between education and the professional world, emphasizing that a thriving arts scene requires constant reinvestment in new voices.

Policy and Artistic FreedomThe discussion takes a critical turn toward cultural policy and the professional environment in Iceland. A key theme is the tension between "fast-paced production cycles" and the need for artistic research. As Una Þorleifsdóttir notes: "If we want to foster significant culture, we must dare to invest in the artistic process itself, not just the final product."

The episode is only available in Icelandic on Spotify and all major podcast platforms.

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