Course Overview

For students with their sights set on a career in the performance industry, a qualification in Performing Arts is a great choice. This practice-based course offers pathways in either Performing Arts or Dance and both aim to train you with the relevant skills and knowledge that employers value, as well as the confidence to progress into a fulfilling, exciting career in the creative industry.

Sessions are delivered in the College’s McMillan Theatre, with students regularly accessing workshops and performances by professionals. Students also perform in the McMillan Theatre and our successful performances have seen students performing to packed houses of 300 people or more each night.

All students study a combination of units to give a broad introduction to the many aspects within performing arts. You will be able to choose a pathway depending on your skills and career of interest.

Topics may include:

• Performing Arts- acting, singing, musical theatre, jazz dance, commercial dance, industry, devising, film and TV acting, classical theatre and contextual studies
• Dance- contemporary, ballet, jazz, commercial, lyrical, choreography, urban, industry, contextual studies, audition techniques.

Work placements and work readiness take place throughout the course to ensure you are ready to progress your studies or enter the workplace.

Assessment Methods

You have the opportunity to attend a variety of live performances and trips. Previous students visited New York, London and Disneyland Paris. Assessment is through coursework based on assignments set in each unit. Assignments involve performance projects, individual research, group work and project work. On successful completion of the course, you will be awarded an overall Distinction, Merit or Pass grade.

Progression Options

On completion of your course, you will be fully trained in musical theatre, dance, singing and acting. Many of our students have progressed on to top drama schools including Arts Educational School, Performers College, Guildford School of Acting, Urdang, Falmouth University, Chichester University, Birmingham University, Bird College Conservatoire of Dance and Musical Theatre, Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, Royal College of Music and the Institute of the Arts Barcelona.