Acting

At the beginning of your course, you will participate in a range of classes and workshops designed to build your confidence in making instinctive decisions and in working collaboratively with colleagues.

In later classes you will work with scripts, building characters and relationships. You will receive training in movement skills, exploring physical approaches to the development of character and methods for the safe, economical use of the body as well as basic dance techniques. Vocal skills classes will teach you the essential techniques relating to speech, singing, accents and the effective use of the voice. You will also take classes in stage combat, developing skills in fencing and unarmed combat in preparation for the British Academy of Stage Combat’s Proficiency Examinations.

Throughout the course, this work will be integrated in a series of projects focussing on the development of the specific skills required for Shakespeare, comedy, musical theatre, experimental theatre, film, TV and radio.

Throughout the first two years, you will study theatrical practice, historical and current, to increase your appreciation of your own practical skills and make you better equipped for professional employment. You are encouraged to explore your own talents in relation to some of the most exciting and influential practitioners who have set the standard for modern practice. There are opportunities to create and perform your own work at the end of each of years one and two.

In the third year, you will be cast in five public productions, with rehearsals running throughout the year. During this exciting and intensive period, you will also perform in a series of Showcase presentations to agents, casting directors and potential employers in Cardiff, Manchester and London - currently at The Royal Court Theatre.

Entry Requirements

Selection is made on the basis of audition.

Normal minimum entry requirements are a UCAS tariff score of 120 points which is equivalent to two A-Levels, or Scottish Highers, BTEC National Diploma/Certificate, Advanced GNVQ, AVCE or Advanced Diploma (Level 3).

For international students recognised equivalent qualifications are accepted. Consideration will also be given to those with no formal qualifications but have an exceptional level of practical experience.

Candidates for whom English is not a first language are required to demonstrate a level of fluency appropriate to professional acting training.

All applicants who meet the minimum entry requirements will be invited to attend an audition.