BTEC Performing Arts

BTEC National Certificate / BTEC National DiplomaWhy should I study Performing Arts at Cardinal Newman College?
Our students achieve excellent results and there are outstanding performance opportunities, an unrivalled combination that is unmatched in the area! We are proud of our twenty year heritage of exciting and challenging theatre and place a strong emphasis on creativity and individuality, giving everyone a chance to develop their individual skills. There are on average about twenty shows a year between September and June with most of our performances taking place in our suite of performance studios at the College, but we also stage a major showcase production at the Charter Theatre in the Guild Hall in Preston.

The Lancashire Evening Post critic described a recent production as being "performed with flair, enthusiasm and professionalism. A marvelous show delivered with panache. One of the best shows I've seen in ages".

Outstanding results are just a part of the experience you'll enjoy at Cardinal Newman College.

What is Performing Arts?
The courses are designed to provide you with opportunities to develop your creative performance skills and critical thinking in drama, dance and singing. The courses aim to equip you with the knowledge and skills required to seek further training or employment within the performing arts industries. To be successful you will require a great deal of energy, enthusiasm, commitment and a sense of fun.

This is a two year course and is equivalent to two A Levels (12 units) if taking the National Certificate or three A Levels (18 units) if taking the National Diploma. This course demands a high level of commitment as a performer. Although the course focuses on acting you will take part in practical skills lessons which allow you to develop in the three performance disciplines of dance, drama and music.

You will be asked to show full commitment during any rehearsal process you are involved in and use your creative skills when devising work for performance. During the year you will look at units which include musical theatre, acting, movement, choreography, the performing arts business, physical theatre and drama improvisation. Students will then work towards an end of year final performance project.
Progression
The creative, co-operative and communication skills acquired by following these Advanced Level courses are attractive to a wide range of employers. They carry the same weight as other arts courses when applying to higher education and are an excellent foundation for those hopeful of a career in performance. Courses chosen by this year's Advanced Level students include:

· BA Hons in Acting

· BA Hons in Performing Arts

You can apply directly to employment in the performance industry whether that be a performance role or a supporting role off stage.