John Severn

Dr. John Severn is a Research Fellow at Macquarie University's Department of International Studies: Languages and Cultures. His career spans academia, law, and translation, with a focus on theatre internationalization, Shakespearean adaptation, and community engagement.

• Education:
  • PhD in Theatre Studies and English, University of New South Wales
  • MA(Hons) in Shakespeare and Theatre, University of Birmingham
  • LLB(Hons) in Law and French, University of Edinburgh
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice, University of Edinburgh
  • BA(Hons) in Theatre Studies and Opera Studies, University of Manchester/Rose Bruford College
  • CertHE in Scottish Gaelic language and culture, University of the Highlands and Islands

His research explores theatre and internationalization through opera, musicals, and Shakespearean adaptation. He investigates how performing arts foster inclusive/exclusive communities and addresses barriers to participation. His work intersects European cultural history, arts policy, and transnational practices.

Recent publications highlight trends in Shakespearean operatic adaptation, Australian theatre censorship, and decolonial processes in performance. His co-edited works include The Routledge Companion to Theatre and Internationalization and Theatre and Internationalization: Perspectives from Australia, Germany, and Beyond.

Dr. Severn collaborates with institutions like the University of Sydney, University of New South Wales, and the Goethe-Institut Australia. He founded the research cluster 'Staging Migration in Berlin' and co-organizes international conferences on theatre internationalization.