Course may be subject to change.
This performing arts course is designed to introduce you to the sector and develop your skills through highly practical, fun and engaging sessions.
Whilst studying on the course, you will take part in a range of performance projects and learn a variety of acting and movement styles.
You will have the opportunity to take part in workshops from industry professional, and theatre trips to local professional theatre to develop your understanding of the arts and underpin and enrich your learning.
You will develop industry and work related experiences in college opportunities, as well as work placements.
You will develop your creativity, knowledge, self-awareness, and academic skills throughout the programme, through a range of tasks and activities such as warm-up games, drama tasks, dance technique, working logbooks, evaluations and performances.
Entry Criteria
4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English and maths or Functional Skills Level 1
What are the next steps?
Audition and Interview Information
We look forward to welcoming you to our vibrant Performing Arts department for our Audition and Interview Evening 4.15-7.15 pm
This will entail:
- A 1-hour practical workshop to showcase your skill set in a group environment with the opportunity to meet a range of teaching staff
- Tour of the facilities led by student ambassadors
Followed by:
- A 1:1 meet-the-tutor interview and sharing of prepared performance material Preparing for your Performing Arts Audition
The main thing to remember is that we are looking for potential, enthusiasm, and a passion for the subject area.
Prepare ONE of the following:
- A song
- A monologue
- A dance Length: 1- 3 minutes
All lyrics and scripts must be performed from memory. You must bring along your own music/backing track (preferably to be played via a phone or iPad)
Prepare a piece that best showcases your skills. MOST importantly something you want to share and that you enjoy performing.
Please wear comfortable clothing that you can move in; and be prepared to share your skills, experience, and knowledge of the industry in your meet-the-tutor session.
Study Aims
This performing arts course is designed to stretch and challenge those who are looking to progress into a career in the industry. It is an opportunity to learn a variety of acting and movement styles, understand what it means to devise and appreciate theatre, and investigate performing arts topics beyond the classroom.
This highly practical qualification will allow you to explore, develop and test your creativity. You will be provided with the skills, confidence, knowledge and understanding needed to progress to Level 3 study or employment.
Modules Studied
The course consists of 7 units, including:
- Skills Development for Performing Arts
- Professional Development
- Creative Interpretation
- Audition and Portfolio process
- Preparing for a Performing Arts Production
- Performing Arts Production
- Responding to a progression opportunity.
Teaching and Assessment
You will develop your performance skills and enhance your understanding of performing arts and theatre work. You will also have access to industry standard equipment so you can experience a professional working environment.
Industry Links
We are very proud of the strong industry links we hold with the West End and many external practitioners. Many of these links provide regular workshops. These sessions will provide you with an insight into the workings of the industry and what can be expected of you in the future.
Placement
Undertaking a work placement is a vital part of the course as it allows you to gain an insight into the industry you are studying to work in. A work placement is therefore mandatory and should be the equivalent of 60 hours (two weeks) – it can be taken at any point in the year. It is strongly suggested that it be taken at the beginning of the year and in holidays to ensure you don’t fall behind in your academic studies.
One of our main placements is at Beamish Museum, this is highly sought after which means that places go very quickly; so in order to avoid disappointment it is best contact them at the beginning of the year. Placements are to be found on your own accord.
You could progress to a Level 3 Performing Arts qualification at New College Durham, or employment within the exciting performing arts industry.
