Performance

Full Time Theatre Arts

Applications open for 2009!
Theatre Arts Selection Day NOVEMBER 26 2008
Click Here for Details

Diploma of Theatre Arts 21680VIC
This course is a training program for early career performers with an emphasis on physical theatre. It develops a range of performance-making skills which will enable the creation and production of new theatre works for the independent theatre arts industry.

What's in it for me?
When you graduate you will have gained skills to be a Live Performer, Independent Performance Maker or Theatre Arts Practitioner. You can also go on the further study (eg: a Bachelor’s Degree) or you can use your skills to audition for other Actor training courses.

How long is it?
Two years full-time

What do we do in the course?
You attend on-going practical studio sessions that aim to release your creative spontaneity. These include skills in improvisation, movement, voice, rhythm, working with texts, script writing, rehearsal and production. You will create and produce four live productions (one per semester) over the duration of the course.

Semester 1
On-campus sessions focus on the foundational skills for physical performance. Production sessions focus on the elements of the rehearsal and production process.

Semester 2
Mid-year performance intensives introduce a range of techniques and to the experience of intensive training. You apply one or more of these techniques to the making of a live performance. The elements of spatial design and the application of audio and lighting to the performance environment are also explored.

Semester 3
On-campus sessions focus on deepening the understanding of character-based performance. You attend professional theatre performances to develop an understanding of the theatre industry and performance aesthetics.

Semester 4
You have the opportunity to conceive, develop and produce a project that applies your performance-making skills to an industry sector of your choice. This project can be presented locally - eg: as part of 3DFest which includes the opportunity to present your work at the Malthouse Theatre. The project can also be presented internationally at one of our exchange destinations in Canada, UK, USA, The Netherlands.

Where are the studio sessions held?
Most studio sessions are held at the Footscray Nicholson Campus studios.

What are the usual session on-campus times?
First 11 weeks each semester: Monday to Thursday 10.00am to 1.00pm.
Last 4 weeks each semester: Monday to Friday- times vary according to rehearsals & performances.

Other activities & assignments take place in your own time and off-campus as part of professional theatre organisations and productions. Some activities happen after hours. You will need to manage your own time and attend all required activities to achieve competency. If you satisfy the requirements for the first year of studies (two semesters) you will be eligible to be awarded the Certificate IV in Theatre Arts 21679VIC.

How do I get in?
You must attend a selection day where you need to show us that you are highly motivated with some performance experience, good communication and positive team-work skills.  The selection day includes movement, devising and improvising, writing activities, individual interview. Selection days are held in November and February. Follow the link at the top of this page for information about the next selection day.