1 Year Advanced Graduate Course

This full time course provides an exclusive professional year for a certain calibre of student who has already attained a very high standard of performance skills, but now requires that last level of expertise that enables them to launch a career in the performing arts. Students suitable for this course may have found they have covered all that is available at their present school and need to move on to full time training, working with other students as focused as them.

Integrated into this course is the BTEC National Award in Performing Arts (Musical Theatre) A Nationally recognised qualification equivalent to one A-Levels, the BTEC is divided into units and completed over the year. Units covered include Musical Theatre Performance, Principles of Acting and Performing to an Audience, which run neatly alongside the Advanced Graduate Course.*

Within the year help is given with their CVs and portfolios, preparing the students for when they have graduated. Advice is given on appearance and conduct at auditions and castings. The course is designed to give students the opportunity to strengthen the skills they are not as competent in and fully develop their potential in all disciplines required to benefit their intended career. Classes are maximised in areas that need improvement.

The students appear in the end of year showcase where agents, casting directors, musical directors and choreographers are invited (for more information on the showcase please see prospectus).

Advanced Graduate Course Outline

Dance

Incorporating Ballet, Modern, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary It is important for the skilled dancer to continue to work hard, building strength, stamina and technique. Having established the problem areas, the student is encouraged to work at these becoming more competent, building confidence and developing hidden potential. They explore different dance genres and develop choreographic skills. Emphasis is on technique for auditions, and mock audition classes and workshops are held on a regular basis.

Drama

Students lacking experience in drama are gently introduced to various styles of acting and exercises as well as vocal and physical skills. Along with this, students who are experienced actors explore the application of developing skills. In class and in house presentations of text incorporating Shakespeare, Restoration and contemporary playwrights are performed. Together, group projects and performances such as scripted plays and Theatre in Education are practised. Other skills learnt include acting and improvisation, voice and speaking of poetry, movement including period movement, textual interpretation and analysis.

Musical Theatre and Singing

This course is based on the student already having knowledge of musical theatre. Extensive portfolio classes and theatre workshops are undertaken alongside regular in-house musical productions. Greater care is placed on audition technique and performance through weekly workshops and classes. Singing is of the utmost importance and encouragement is given for those lacking confidence in group and private lessons. Vocal techniques are taught and improved alongside sight reading and harmony ensuring the student leaves feeling confident in all areas. By marrying all skills learnt, the TTC student becomes a well rounded musical performer.

For more course details see prospectus

*please see further information about BTEC in qualifications