BTEC Higher National Diploma in Performing Arts - Musical Theatre

BTEC Higher National Diploma in Performing Arts - Musical Theatre

About the Course
Course Code
UCAS 194W
Study Mode
Higher Education

Introduction The Higher National Diploma (HND) in Performing Arts - Musical Theatre - is designed to develop the skills and knowledge that will eventually allow you to either continue in higher education or to find employment. Innovation and creativity in performance comes from being prepared to challenge the rules and conventions of contemporary theatre. In order to do this effectively (and not simply repeat what others have done), it is important to have knowledge and understanding of what the rules and conventions are so they can be challenged. It is to this end that this course moves.

Who is the course for?
This programme is primarily for those wishing to develop their range of skills in musical theatre and who wish to explore the variety of opportunities available.
What the Course Will Cover
In your first year, you will develop your existing performance skills through technique classes in voice and singing, dance and acting, with supporting studies exploring the historical and cultural background to the art of musical theatre. Whilst you explore and develop your own creative vocabulary, you will have the opportunity to examine your role within the ensemble. Both of these areas of individual and ensemble development will be assessed through two major projects. You will also be introduced to Professional Practice, which will enable you to track your personal growth as a performer and maintain a professional portfolio of work. At the same time it will increase your awareness and knowledge of the business side of being a performer.
In your second year, you will continue to build on these foundations whilst experimenting with the traditions of performance practice to produce your own original work. You will be encouraged to explore different, non-conventional routes into the business through the different assessment opportunities afforded by the course. During this time, you will undertake an international project (currently New York) working alongside actors, dancers and our media department. You will also undertake a final major production, organised and funded by your own production company.
There will be various theatre trips and visits throughout the programme including an international location, currently New York, and a location film shoot at the end of the second year. You will be expected to visit as many live performances as possible and take advantage of the offers from our local theatre, The Royal Shakespeare Theatre. This world renowned venue offers a wide range of live performance experiences, besides Shakespeare's plays, including visiting companies, such as Kneehigh.
Included in the Fees

· You will receive a laptop for academic purposes for the duration of your course
· Theatre visits and an international field trip (currently New York)

You will also have the opportunity to visit venues around the country. Students have recently visited London, Birmingham, Coventry, Northampton, Leeds and Manchester.

What the course will cover You will need to complete and pass eight units in year one and eight units in year two. Units covered could include:

· Professional Practice
· Singing
· Voice and Speech
· Dance Theatre Styles
· Acting - General and Epic
· Popular Entertainer
· Research
· Historical Studies
· Contemporary Studies
· Small Arts Business Management
· Workshop Leadership
· Process and Production

Stratford-upon-Avon College has a close working relationship with The Royal Shakespeare Company.


Training Methods A variety of teaching and learning methods will be used on the programme including lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical workshop sessions and technique classes but, by far, most of your learning will take place as you work through the assignments. Some assignments, such as essays and seminar presentations, will relate to single units. However, you will also undertake Integrated Production Assignments that will test your practical and academic skills. Theatre productions will provide a focus for bringing together theory and practice and will form a major part of the programme of study. This will enable you to develop a working understanding of the context and current industrial and professional practices operating in the theatre.

Facilities The performing arts facilities at the college are among the best in the country. A new suite of rehearsal/dance studios and a studio theatre have just been added to our already extensive performing arts spaces. A dedicated team of technical staff are on hand to aid with all your production and assignment requests.