Course Outline
BA (Hons) Acting is a course of vocational training which prepares students for entry into the profession. The course is accredited by the National Council for Drama Training (NCDT) and at all stages meets the rigorous outcomes demanded by its professional members. The course is delivered by a team of qualified professionals who have worked at the highest levels in their fields. The team is supported by visiting tutors, guest lecturers and professional directors from all branches of stage, screen and broadcast media.
During the first year of study the majority of classes are on the technical skills of acting, voice and movement. Rehearsal techniques are taught through project work which culminates in internal performances. During the first year the emphasis is on learning technical skills and is therefore weighted 70 per cent technical and 30 per cent performance. This first year provides the skills that underpin the second year where the balance between skills and performance becomes equally weighted. This in turn leads to a final year in which rehearsals and performances, public and recorded, together with career advice and support, occupy almost all of the time.
Throughout the course students are taught in a variety of small and large classes (maximum 16) depending on the nature of the class. Rehearsal and performance groups are divided according to the level of study and the learning needs of the cohort. Play selection throughout Years 2 and 3 will vary from large ensemble pieces to much more intimate, small-cast plays. During the final year of the course each student will perform in three live stage performances, a screen performance leading to a show reel and a radio play. In addition students also have the opportunity to enter the Carleton Hobbs Competition for Radio, organised by the BBC. In both the second and final years students may also enter the Sam Wanamaker Festival which is held at the Globe Theatre in London. Towards the end of the final year of the course a showcase is presented in Birmingham and London to invited agents, casting directors and other professionals.
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Year 1 |
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Acting 1 |
Acting Theory |
Project |
Physical skills 1 |
Singing 1 |
Voice 1 |
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120 Credits - Cert HE |
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Year 2 |
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Acting 2 |
Workshops |
Physical skills 2 |
Singing 2 |
Voice 2 |
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240 Credits - Dip HE |
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Year 3 |
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Acting 3 |
Production |
Recorded media |
Showcase and auditions |
Professional studies |
Voice |
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360 Credits - BA (Hons) |
Students need to develop the basic freelance personal management skills in order to operate as a professional actor. In group lectures, workshops and seminars, students will gain professional advice and guidance from tutors and relevant industry professionals and specialists.
Your Career
Career Prospects
Graduates from the acting courses work consistently in all branches of performance. Recent graduates are currently employed with The Royal Shakespeare Company, The National Theatre, The BBC and Independent Television, and in film (see Alumni Section).