BTEC First Diploma in Performing Arts

BTEC First Diploma in Performing Arts
The course is designed to enable you to:

• Develop a broad base of theoretical and practical skills related to the Performing Arts
• Have the confidence and ability to work individually and as part of a group to learn, create and perform Dance and Drama work
• Learn how to make effective use of rehearsal time in and out of lessons
• Use ICT appropriately to do research, produce written work and create marketing material (such as posters) for performances
• Have an understanding of the roles of a performer and the type of jobs available in the industry.

Is it for me?
This course suits those who are willing to "have a go" and to try something new. You will work as part of a creative team and learn professionalism. This course is taken over one year, is equivalent to four GCSE's and assessment is coursework based.
What's involved?
Performing Arts Production Process
This unit will give you an insight into the process of putting on a public performance of a performing arts work from initial idea right through to the end product. It is an opportunity for you to apply the skills you will be learning in your specialist subjects to create suitable material and work as part of a theatre company in a realistic situation. It will involve you working around a central theme or stimulus and doing research on this to come up with Dance and Drama work with help from your tutors. As well as being a performer in the production you will be expected to take on other supporting roles to help with the planning, development and staging of the final performance. You will be responsible for the marketing of the production and will have to do some research into the venue, target audience and ticket prices etc. You will do 3 productions throughout the year with the 3rd being your Final Major Project. The Performing Arts Business
This unit will enable you to gain an understanding of the basic business structure of the Performing Arts industry including funding bodies, companies, agencies and unions. It is an opportunity for you to become aware of the range of job opportunities available in the performing arts sector and the skills and knowledge needed to pursue these. You will develop your understanding of financial planning, budgeting and marketing methods and apply this to actual performing arts events which you are involved in. This unit will require you to take notes and do some of your own research and will give you opportunities to work individually and in smaller groups on projects.
Understanding Dance
This unit is designed to give you a basic knowledge and understanding of the art form of dance. You will learn about some of the historical, social and cultural factors which have helped to shape dance over the centuries and also get to research into and learn some technique from a variety of dance styles. You will pick up some important vocabulary specific to dance and be able to describe movement and meaning in a dance piece. Another important part of the work you will do on this unit is learning about the process of choreography and the specific components that are necessary in the structuring of a dance piece. Using this knowledge, you will be required to create your own dance pieces for solo dancers or groups. This unit is a mixture of practical and written work.
Performing Dance
In this unit you will be working as a professional dancer to learn the discipline and commitment needed to be successful. You will be learning the key features and specific technique of a range of dance styles in order to improve your movement, memory and practical skills.
Acting
This unit will introduce you to the basic technique and skills needed for acting. It is designed to help build your confidence in using vocal, physical and characterisation skills to improve your role as an actor.
Devising Plays
This unit is about devising plays for performance in a group context. You will learn techniques and methods for creating original drama material and how to produce work around a theme or stimulus.
Progression
You can continue to BTEC National Diploma in Performing Arts, BTEC National Awards in Dance or Technical Theatre, advanced programmes at New College or into employment.