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STAGE TELEVISION FILM RADIO Looking for an agent? A photographer? A costume? A voice coach? Digs? Studios? Rehearsal rooms? Writing to a casting director? CONTACTS is the essential handbook for anyone beginning a career in the entertainment industry. Published annually by Spotlight @ ÂŁ12.50 Available from all good bookstores or direct from: SPOTLIGHT 7 Leicester Place London WC2H 7RJ t 020 7440 5032 f 020 7437 5881 e sales@spotlight.com www.spotlight.com/shop
CONTACTS: your career starts here. CTUK-CDS-10
The Conference of Drama Schools CDS Guide to Professional Training in Drama & Technical Theatre 2010
[CONTACTS]
www.drama.ac.uk
in association with
The Conference of Drama Schools CDS Guide to Professional Training in Drama & Technical Theatre 2010
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Going to Drama School? Got everything? What about your Student Equity the good news Card? If you are on a full-time course lasting one year of more which prepares you to work as a performer/stage management/creative team in the entertainment industry you are eligible for Equity Student Membership. the even better news
Equity Student Membership costs only ÂŁ15 per year. For this you get regular information, your Equity name, discounts, and the chance to meet established artists and make useful contacts. the best news of all
Upon graduation from NCDT accredited courses, or from recognised vocational courses at CDS schools, graduates are eligible to join Equity as full members, if they are entitled to work in the UK. For more details and application form contact: Matt Hood at Equity T: 020 7670 0268; E: info@equity.org.uk or join online at www.equity.org.uk/howtojoin SPOTLIGHT
7 Leicester Place
London WC2H 7RJ
t 020 7437 7631
f 020 7437 5881
e info@spotlight.com
www.spotlight.com
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THE CONFERENCE OF DRAMA SCHOOLS CDS Guide to Professional Training in Drama and Technical Theatre 2010
For additional copies of this Guide please contact French’s Theatre Bookshop: Write to: French’s Theatre Bookshop 52 Fitzroy Street London W1T 5JR Tel: 020 7255 4300 Email: theatre@samuelfrench-london.co.uk www.samuelfrench-london.co.uk To contact CDS please write to: Executive Secretary CDS Limited PO Box 34252 London NW5 1XJ
For the latest information on CDS schools, an online version of this guide and a searchable database of courses please see:
Sponsor of The Guide
Founded 1927 The internationally famous casting directory t: +44 (0)20 7437 7631 w: www.spotlight.com e: questions@spotlight.com
Supported by French’s Theatre Bookshop
Learning and Skills Council
The National Association of Careers and Guidance Teachers
www.drama.ac.uk © The Conference of Drama Schools Ltd 2009. All rights reserved. Except as otherwise permitted under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior permission of the copyright holders.
Cover Photo: Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts – Acting Programme Production: The Fix 2009 / Photograph: Robin Savage
The contents and advertisements in this book are compiled and published in good faith. The Publisher cannot accept any liability for any claim howsoever arising, including as a result of any person acting or refraining
Design, print & marketing
from acting on the contents, whether any resultant loss is direct or indirect. The Conference of Drama Schools is a company limited by guarantee, registered in England, Registered address: The Spotlight, 7 Leicester Place, London WC2H 7RJ Company no. 4027044
Tel: 01895 619 900 / Fax: 01895 251 048 / Email: develop@considerthisuk.com
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02 FOREWORD
By Dame Judi Dench
I was delighted to be asked to introduce
getting into. There are also courses for
this Guide to you, because I believe
those of you who want to work behind
it is an essential aid in helping you
the scenes as directors, designers and
to choose the right kind of training.
in other areas of technical theatre.
In Britain we have some of the finest drama schools and the 22 schools
There is no easy route to success
listed in this Guide represent a range
and attending drama school does
of different approaches. If you are even
not guarantee a job at the end of the
considering attending drama school,
course. Nor does it mean that you will
then you obviously have the acting
never be out of work. However, if you
‘bug’ that drives us all. I believe that
have the drive and commitment to
professional training is essential to
achieve your dream, then this is
develop your talent and teach technique.
a good place to start.
In fact, the learning never stops, and the courses in this Guide will give you
I wish you success and great good
a good grounding.
luck in whatever direction your career takes you.
Whether you are contemplating a career as an actor in theatre, film, television or radio, you will find courses here to help you. If you are not quite sure where your strengths lie, there are short courses to give you a taste of what you might be
Dame Judi Dench, C.H., D.B.E.
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CONTENTS
4
Introduction
54
GSA – Guildford School of Acting
6
Conference of Drama Schools
56
Guildhall School of Music & Drama
12
Career opportunities
58
Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts
28
Guide to courses
60
LIPA – Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts
32
Summer Schools
62
LAMDA – London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art
36
ALRA – Academy of Live & Recorded Arts
64
Manchester Metropolitan University School of Theatre
38
Arts Educational Schools London
66
Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
40
Birmingham School of Acting
68
Oxford School of Drama
42
Bristol Old Vic Theatre School
70
QMU – School of Drama & Creative Industries
44
Central School of Speech & Drama
72
Rose Bruford College
46
Cygnet Training Theatre
74
RADA – Royal Academy of Dramatic Art
48
Drama Centre London
76
RSAMD – Royal Scottish Academy of Music & Drama
50
Drama Studio London
78
RWCMD – Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama
52
East 15 Acting School
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04 AN INTRODUCTION FROM THE CHAIR OF CDS Welcome to the CDS Guide to Professional Training in Drama and Technical Theatre 2010. The most distinctive aspect of the training provided by CDS members is the fact that we train actors and technicians to work. The courses offered by CDS schools are practical and focus entirely on producing graduates who are ready to work in the performing arts industry – particularly in drama. From the professional staff who meet you when you are auditioned – to the agents and casting directors who come to our final performances and showcases – we provide training for professionals by professionals. Many of our courses have the added advantage of providing graduates with a nationally recognised qualification, mostly at undergraduate and post graduate level, validated by various Higher Education Institutions; even though the teaching and learning is firmly embedded in the traditions of drama school training. The CDS and its members are consistently supported by professional practitioners in every branch of the industry and by their professional organisations such as The Spotlight, Equity, the Royal Shakespeare Company, the Theatrical Managers' Association, the Globe
Theatre and the National Theatre. With their help, the Conference of Drama Schools will continue to maintain and improve the highest standards of professional training. CDS members provide the British theatre, film and television industries with welltrained, educated and innovative actors, directors, technicians and designers. Graduates from all our courses find work in the world’s best stage and screen productions, in all areas of expertise. The UK theatre profession is internationally renowned as one of the great glories of British culture and the performance industry makes an immense contribution to the national economy. I hope you enjoy our Guide and trust that you will find the process of auditioning for the schools of your choice enjoyable and rewarding. We will certainly enjoy meeting you! With best wishes,
Peter Barlow Chair - CDS Director - GSA, Guildford School of Acting
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All members of the Conference of Drama Schools are committed to a policy of widening access, to reflect the social and cultural diversity of society. Conference of Drama Schools (CDS)
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06 ABOUT US
Conference of Drama Schools (CDS)
Who are we? CDS is the organisation which represents the top 22 UK drama schools. Founded in 1969, CDS defines a drama school as an organisation for students over the age of 18, offering vocational courses in acting, plus in some cases musical theatre, stage management and technical theatre skills. What are we for? CDS exists in order to strengthen the voice of the member schools, to set and maintain the highest standards of training within the vocational drama sector, and to make it easier for prospective students to understand the range of courses on offer and the application process. What sort of courses does CDS offer? All 22 schools offer a 3-year full-time comprehensive training course in acting at diploma, ordinary degree or honours degree level. Some schools offer one or two year acting courses, usually for students who have had substantial previous experience. The purpose of these courses is to train actors for theatre, television, film, radio and related industries. Many of the schools also offer two or three-year courses in stage management and technical theatre. These are ordinary degrees, honours degrees, or diplomas. Some schools also offer courses in musical
theatre or directing. There are also some shorter courses and summer schools available at most schools. How hard will I have to work? All the courses are extremely rigorous. A full-time student can expect to be in classes for at least 30 hours per week, plus research and preparation time. Students need to be physically and mentally fit, and possess the determination to keep going even when things get tough. What’s it like being an actor? Almost all acting work is freelance and short-term, and few actors are in full-time ongoing positions. Drama schools are only too aware of the glamour which is associated with the acting profession, but prospective students need to understand the realities of being an actor. This is not just a career but a lifestyle, and one which can involve much rejection, frustration and poverty, as well as creativity, recognition and satisfaction. Ask yourself if you are the kind of person who can do without job security and set routine. What is The National Council for Drama Training (NCDT)? The Council is a partnership of employers in the theatre, broadcast and media industry, employee representatives and training providers.
NCDT accredits vocational courses in acting, musical theatre and technical theatre/stage management. Accreditation aims to give students confidence that the courses they choose are recognised by the drama profession as being relevant to the purposes of their employment; and that the profession has confidence that the people they employ who have completed these courses have the skills and attributes required for the continuing health of the industry. NCDT exists as a champion for the industry by working to optimise support for professional drama training and education, embracing change and development. It works to safeguard the highest standards and provides a credible process of quality assurance through accreditation for vocational drama courses in further and higher education in the UK. The Council is currently developing a widening participation strategy with the aim to provide services that support those initiatives organized by individual schools. It will focus on providing information, advice and guidance on the range of career pathways available to young people interested in a career in the performing arts.
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Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama
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08 INFORMATION ABOUT FUNDING How do I get Funding? There is no one single way in which your training can be funded, it varies depending on the school. Broadly there are two sources of funding: (1) Higher Education funding (2) Dance and Drama Awards 1. Higher Education (HE) Funding Government Funding is available for all Home Students studying on a three year Degree Course, providing the student has not previously been in receipt of government funding. Students embarking on these courses can access Maintenance and Fee Loans, they may also apply for a Maintenance Grant which would be income assessed. From 2006 EU students have been able to apply for a Fee Loan. If you take out a loan for fees/maintenance you will not have to repay it while you are studying. Repayments only start after you leave your course and are earning more that £15,000 a year.
2. Dance and Drama Awards (DADAs) Students in receipt of a DADA pay a maximum of £1,275 per annum (09/10) towards their training and can also get a grant to help with living costs which they do not have to repay. Students are also eligible for Career Development loans of up to £8,000. You can receive a DADA even if you have already been in receipt of government funding. Students with an award undertake qualifications validated by Trinity College London which are levels 5 and 6 in the National Qualifications Framework (equivalent to an Ordinary or Honours degree). Schools in the DADA scheme do not have enough awards for every student on their courses and have to allocate awards according to the two criteria of talent and financial need. Schools will inform you of the proportion of awards they have for your cohort. The Dance and Drama Awards are funded by the Learning and Skills Council.
What if I don’t get funding? Students who do not receive funding can expect to pay fees of around £12,000 per year for their tuition, and will need to fund their own maintenance with no loan or grant help. The total cost of funding a 3-year independent programme, including living costs, can be in the region of £56,000. Even within HE institutions, courses aimed at graduates or mature students do not normally attract funding. Though graduates are eligible for DADAs. There are also some bursaries and trust grants which can be accessed by self-funding students. However, these fall a long way short of providing all the funding necessary for your training.
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Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama
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10 USEFUL CONTACTS Council for Dance Education and Training (CDET) (Answers for Dancers) (Please send an A4 ÂŁ1.50 sae for a full information pack) Old Brewers Yard, 17-19 Neal Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9UY www.cdet.org.uk Email: info@cdet.org.uk Tel: 020 7240 5703 Foundation for Community Dance The industry lead body for community dance, can provide advice, information and publications about community dance. LCB Depot, 31 Rutland Street, Leicester LE1 1RE www.communitydance.org.uk Email: info@communitydance.org.uk Tel: 0116 253 3453 National Council for Drama Training (NCDT) 249 Tooley Street London SE1 2JX www.ncdt.co.uk Email: info@ncdt.co.uk Tel: 020 7407 3686
RSAMD
The National Association of Youth Theatres Darlington Arts Centre, Vane Terrace, Darlington DL3 7AX www.nayt.org.uk Email: nayt@btconnect.com Tel: 01325 363330 National Operatic and Dramatic Association 58-60 Lincoln Road, Peterborough PE1 2RZ www.noda.co.uk Email: everyone@noda.hq.org.uk Tel: 01733 865 790 Music and Dance Scheme DCSF, Music and Dance Team Mowden Hall, Darlington, Co Durham DL3 9BG www.dcsf.gov.uk/mds Email: jim.wharton@dfes.gsi.gov.uk Tel: 01325 391150 SKILL National Bureau for Students with Disabilities Head Office, Unit 3, Floor 3, Radisson Court, 219 Long Lane, London, SE1 4PR www.skill.org.uk Email: info@skill.org.uk Tel: 02074 500 620 Minicom: 020 7450 0620
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FUNDING CONTACTS Awards, Grants & Loans
A first point of contact should be the Local Education Authority. There is more information on the NCDT website wwww.ncdt.co.uk in the funding section of their Guide to Training. The following contacts may also be useful in finding funding:
Dance and Drama Awards Learner Support Directorate N8 Moorfoot, Sheffield, S1 4PQ Email: dada@lsc.gov.uk www.direct.gov.uk/danceanddrama
Careers Service or Connexions Partnership Your local Careers Service or Connexions Partnership can tell you about the range of course providers or job opportunities. Look in the phone book under Careers Service or Connexions Partnership. www.connexions.gov.uk
DCSF contacts for higher education students: www.dcsf.gov.uk/studentsupport/links Tel: 0207 241 7459
Career Development Loans Available to students aged 18+ To obtain an infromation pack Tel: 0800 585 505 (freephone) www.lifelonglearning.co.uk Learning and Skills Council (LSC) The LSC publishes a guide about the Dance and Drama Awards. The DaDA booklet is available from the LSC publication line on 0845 602 2260, or at the website, and is also available from all schools in receipt of DaDA funding and from CDET (Council for Dance Education and Training) and NCDT. The Guide contains information about how the Awards work, which schools are eligible and how to find out about maintenance funds.
Family Action (formerly Educational Grants Advisory Service) 501–505 Kingsland Road, Dalston, London E8 4AU Tel: 020 7254 6251 www.family-action.org.uk The Student Loan Company For HE (degree) students. 100 Bothwell Street, Glasgow G2 7JD Tel: 0845 026 2019 www.slc.co.uk/ www.studentfinancedirect.co.uk In England www.direct.gov.uk/StudentFinance Tel: 0845 300 50 90 (open mon - fri from 8.00am to 8.00pm and between 9.00am and 5.30pm on Sat – Sun, local call rates apply) Minicom: 0845 604 4434
In Scotland Higher Education students: The Student Awards Agency for Scotland Gyleview House, 3 Redheughs Rigg, Edinburgh EH12 9HH Tel: 0845 111 1711 Email: saas.gov@scotland.gsi.gov.uk www.saas.gov.uk In Wales www.studentfinancewales.co.uk www.cyllidmyfyrwyrcymru.co.uk (Welsh version) Tel: 0845 602 8845 (open 8am-8pm Mon-Fri and 9am-1pm on Saturday, local call rates apply). Minicom: 0845 603 1693 Email: All emails to Student Finance Wales must be sent through the secure message facility on the site. In Northern Ireland www.studentfinanceni.co.uk Tel: 0845 600 0662 (open Mon-Fri from 8am-8pm and between 9.00am-5.30pm on Sat-Sun, local call rates apply). Email: All emails to Student Finance NI must be sent through the secure message facility on the site. In other EU countries www.direct.gov.uk/studentfinance-eu Tel: +44 141 243 3660
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12 CHOOSING THE RIGHT COURSE Which Course? Many students struggle to gain a place on a acting course. There are many thousands of applicants each year for fewer than 1000 places within CDS schools. The ones most able to show their talent and potential at audition may, however, be offered places on a number of courses. You need to remember that the CDS operates a policy of not allowing any applicant to accept a place at more than one institution. If you already have accepted an offer from a CDS school and subsequently receive another offer that you prefer – you need to decline the first offer and accept the second offer. You can continue to do this as often as you want until July 1 2010 on which date schools exchange offer lists.
The Choice The choice you make should be based on a mixture of informed judgement and gut feeling. Factors that may influence you are the location of the school, the atmosphere in the building, the style and content of the course and the destinations of the graduates. You may want to attend a student show – schools are generally happy to provide auditionees with information about forthcoming productions. CDS schools agree on many of the fundamental principles of actor training, such as the importance of voice and movement. However, within the different schools there are different philosophies and methodologies applied to the teaching. What CDS schools have in common is a proven track record of success and excellence, but you may well find that one course suits you better than another. The rest of this booklet is designed to help you make the right choice.
GSA
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TECHNICAL THEATRE / STAGE MANAGEMENT Career opportunities backstage
ALRA
Will I work? If your training is in stage management or technical theatre, then provided you are competent you should be able to get jobs relatively easily. There is virtually 100% employment among graduates in this area. If you are an actor the picture is very different, but your chances of making a living are hugely enhanced by training at a CDS school. A report compiled by Manpower Studies on behalf of the Arts Council of England found that 86% of actors working in the industry had received formal professional training, and that the vast majority were satisfied with the preparation they had received, including the careers advice and launch into the profession. Of the many thousands of actors and other performers currently registered with Spotlight and Equity, only a comparative handful could be considered ‘famous’ in the sense of being household names. However, there are large numbers of actors whose careers could be described as successful to the extent that they work regularly in interesting roles within theatre, radio, television and film, and make a reasonable living. Actors who get taken on by a good agent early in their careers may quickly get onto television, but only a few are cast in lead roles immediately. Doing a lot of television may be lucrative and good for the CV, but a long run
in regional theatre may be a better way of honing skills. If your career doesn’t take off immediately, then use the early years to develop yourself as an actor rather than bemoaning your ill-fortune. It can take ten or fifteen years before you get your ‘break’, but most actors who stick with it eventually find their niche. The good news is that there are now more jobs available in the acting profession than at any time in its history, and the growth continues. What other career opportunities are there? Directing, Design and Playwriting training courses are also offered at a range of drama schools. These are generally freelance professions with opportunities across the fields of theatre and the recorded media. Some directors and designers hold salaried posts within theatre or television companies. Students on acting courses will generally receive training in singing and movement. However, those wishing to specialise in singing or dance should either take a course in musical theatre, or look beyond the drama schools to dance or music colleges. Similarly, those interested in arts administration should try one of the universities or colleges who offer training in this area.
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14 TECHNICAL THEATRE Stage Management
What are the Employment Opportunities? If your training is in stage management or one of the many areas of technical theatre then it is possible to enjoy a career with a high level of employment. To work in one of these areas, more often than not, requires an individual who is multiskilled. This means that the knowledge and training can be applied not only to theatre but also to film, television, events management, dance, opera and trade shows. Graduates from the CDS Drama Schools also tend to benefit from having an understanding of the other technical disciplines and not just the one that they may have specialised in. Stage Management It is the Stage Management who co-ordinate and manage both the rehearsal process and the performance. The stage management team work closely with the director, actors and the creative team. To work in stage management you need to be diplomatic, an excellent communicator and have good organizational and time management skills. You should have a flair for research and attention to detail.
Drama Studio London
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Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama
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16 LIGHTING
Lighting Designers and Lighting Technicians
The visual images created on stage are an integral part of any live performance and the lighting not only illuminates the set but also creates mood and atmosphere. There is a big demand for good lighting technicians in theatre, dance, trade shows and other related industries. A similar set of opportunities exists in the recorded media. However, opportunities for those interested in becoming a lighting designer are fewer. The work is very creative but also requires a substantial amount of technical knowledge. Lighting professionals have a major role in shaping the development of theatre and television as lighting technology is constantly evolving. Most drama schools have invested heavily in advanced lighting technology so that students have the opportunity to work with digital and computerised systems.
Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama
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Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama
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18 SOUND
Sound Designers, Sound Technicians and Operators
Sound also has a substantial role to play in creating mood and atmosphere by the application and creation of sound effects. The musical theatre, relies heavily on skilful and sensitive amplification. Sound technology is also constantly developing and requires that sound professionals to be both creative and technically competent. Good people skills are needed in this area as sound brings you into close contact with performers, as well as having a good ear.
Birmingham School of Acting
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East 15
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20 DESIGN Design offers a range of careers which include scenic design, artist, prop maker, wardrobe, costume design and set design. In all these areas you will have to acquire the relevant craft, as well as skills in budgeting, research, problem solving and versatility. Skilled professionals are always in demand and the work is usually varied and creative although there are fewer opportunities for the set designer.
Mountview
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Rose Bruford College
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22 CONSTRUCTION The construction team are responsible for realising the creative vision of the set designer. To do this they have to utilise a variety of materials and techniques and apply their skills in unusual and innovative ways. The Master Carpenter is responsible for managing the construction process and ensuring that there is a successful installation of all scenic elements. To work in construction you need to be practical, good at budgeting, problem solving, flexible and being fairly good at maths helps. You also need to be able to work well either as an individual or in a team. There is a skills shortage in this area and good construction professionals are much in demand.
LAMDA
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Rose Bruford College
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24 FINDING OUT MORE CDS hopes the information in this guide will help you to choose where to train but please note: •
•
•
•
• •
We cannot recommend a particular drama school – the information in the guide is a starting point – each school produces its own prospectus and has its own website where you can find out more information and the dates of their open days. We cannot give information about drama schools that are not members of CDS and cannot advise British students about studying overseas. We cannot give information about classes for school children (except for short courses run by our members – see page 32). We cannot give financial assistance to help students attend drama schools. (see the information on funding on page 8). We cannot recommend drama teachers to individuals. We cannot receive applications or give information about open days, closing dates or auditions – please contact the individual school directly.
ALRA
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A LETTER FROM AN AGENT
As an agent I expect my clients not only to be talented actors but also to be disciplined, committed, enthusiastic professionals who are passionate about their craft. Drama training instills the necessary discipline and prepares the young performer for their first step towards a successful career. It is fair to say that you will never stop learning – that is one of the joys of this business – but after completing your course you will be ready to embark on your chosen career. I visit many drama schools and I know how committed the tutors and staff are in providing first class training. Whatever area you choose to follow, be it acting, musical theatre, directing, production arts or any other discipline, then training at Drama College is the best preparation you could have. This CDS guide provides you with a considerable amount of invaluable information to help you decide on your next step. Good Luck!
Barry Burnett Burnett Granger Associates
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26 NATIONAL
Location of CDS Schools – UK
Edinburgh Queen Margaret University School of Drama & Creative Industries
Glasgow Royal Scottish Academy of Music & Drama
Liverpool Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts
Manchester Manchester Metropolitan University School of Theatre
Birmingham Birmingham School of Acting (BSA)
Oxford Oxford School of Drama
Cardiff Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama
Bristol Bristol Old Vic Theatre School
Guildford GSA, Guildford School of Acting
Exeter Cygnet Training Theatre
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LONDON Location of CDS Schools – London
Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
East 15 Acting School
Guildhall School of Music & Drama Drama Centre London
The Central School of Speech & Drama
Royal Academy of Dramatic Art
Arts Educational Schools London
London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art
Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts
ALRA (the Academy of Live and Recorded Arts)
Drama Studio London Rose Bruford College
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28 GUIDE TO COURSES Duration and Level BA
3yr Dip
2yr Dip /2yr Foundation Degree
ACTING ALRA Arts Educational, Lon Birmingham (BSA) Bristol Old Vic Central Cygnet Drama Centre London Drama Studio London East 15 GSA Guildhall Italia Conti LIPA LAMDA Manchester Mountview Oxford Queen Margaret Rose Bruford RADA RSAMD RWCMD
CLASSICAL ACTING Central Drama Centre London LAMDA RSAMD
MA
BA
PG Dip
3yr Dip
2yr Dip /2yr Foundation Degree
MUSICAL THEATRE Arts Educational, Lon Central GSA Mountview RSAMD RWCMD
1yr Cert /Dip
ACTOR MUSICIANSHIP Rose Bruford RSAMD
CONTEMPORARY THEATRE Central East 15 Rose Bruford RSAMD
1yr Cert /Dip
TECHNICAL THEATRE / STAGE MANAGEMENT ALRA Birmingham (BSA) Bristol Old Vic Central East 15 GSA Guildhall LIPA LAMDA Mountview Queen Margaret Rose Bruford RADA RSAMD RWCMD
PG Dip
TELEVISION, FILM AND RADIO PERFORMANCE Drama Centre London Central East 15 RSAMD RWCMD
MA
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BA
3yr Dip
2yr Dip /2yr Foundation Degree
DESIGN Bristol Old Vic Central LIPA LAMDA Queen Margaret Rose Bruford RADA RSAMD RWCMD DIRECTING Bristol Old Vic Central East 15 Drama Centre London Drama Studio London LAMDA Mountview Rose Bruford
MA
BA
3yr Dip
2yr Dip
ARTS MANAGEMENT Bristol Old Vic LIPA Queen Margaret Rose Bruford RWCMD
1yr Cert /Dip
MA
PG Dip
OTHER FULL TIME COURSES The Drama Schools listed below offer a variety of courses not listed in this chart. Please refer to the schools’ individual pages within this guide for further information.
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/2yr Foundation Degree
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PG Dip
RADA RSAMD COSTUME Bristol Old Vic Central Queen Margaret Rose Bruford RADA RSAMD
1yr Cert /Dip
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Birmingham (BSA) Bristol Old Vic Central Drama Centre London East 15 GSA Guildhall Italia Conti
LIPA LAMDA Mountview Oxford Queen Margaret Rose Bruford RADA RSAMD
RWCMD
ONE YEAR CONVERSION COURSES The Drama Schools listed below offer courses for former students who have successfully completed one, two or three year diploma courses in the past and now wish to extend the qualification to a degree.
Arts Educational Schools London GSA (BA and MA)
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30 SECTOR & QUALIFICATIONS A guide to funding and validation
SCHOOL
DaDA ALRA Arts Educational, Lon Birmingham (BSA) Bristol Old Vic Central Cygnet Drama Centre London Drama Studio London East 15 GSA Guildhall Italia Conti LIPA LAMDA Manchester Mountview Oxford Queen Margaret Rose Bruford RADA RSAMD RWCMD
Maintained
Independent
HE
QUALIFICATIONS AWARDED BY
FE
University of Greenwich/Trinity College London Trinity College London/City University Birmingham City University University of the West of England University of London Cygnet The University of the Arts London Trinity College London University of Essex Trinity College London/University of Surrey City University, London London South Bank University/ Trinity College London Liverpool John Moores University University of Kent at Canterbury Manchester Metropolitan University UEA /Middlesex University/Trinity College London Trinity College London Queen Margaret University University of Manchester/London Metropolitan University King’s College London Royal Scottish Academy of Music & Drama (RSAMD) University of Glamorgan
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Do you want to work in technical theatre? Are you looking for an interesting, varied career with good employment prospects? Do you know where you can get your training? The CDS Guide to Careers Backstage gives you all the information you need on the range of job opportunities. It also introduces you to all the CDS schools where you can get the training that is right for you. For a free copy of The CDS Guide to Careers Backstage please contact French's Theatre Bookshop, 52 Fitzroy St, London, W1T 5JR. Telephone 020 7255 4300 or email: theatre@samuelfrench-london.co.uk. You can also download the text of the Guide from the CDS website www.drama.ac.uk
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32 SUMMER SCHOOLS / PART TIME / YOUNG PERSONS COURSES A guide to schools offering short courses
ALRA – Academy of Live and Recorded Arts ALRA is committed to offering short skills and access courses. These will be tailored for specific group and individual needs, developed by our professional tutors. The courses will normally take place during the Easter and summer periods. For further information please see our website www.alra.co.uk Arts Educational Schools London Arts Educational Schools London offer a comprehensive range of part-time and short courses for almost every age group. The Saturday School caters for children from 3 years upwards with classes in ballet, jazz, drama and more. The evening classes are suitable for adults aged 17+ who are looking for an introduction to the profession or those wishing to develop existing skills. The Easter and Summer programmes have courses for both adults and young people and include Musical Theatre, Acting, Audition Technique, Stage Combat, Film & TV, Shakespeare, Table Magic, Junior Ballet and much much more. For further information, go to www.artsed.co.uk, email shortcourses@artsed.co.uk or contact 020 8987 6666. Birmingham School of Acting As part of its commitment to the development of access to training for students of all ages, part-time study in all aspects of acting and communication skills is offered in evening and weekend courses for adults and students from 7 years of age upwards. Short Courses in acting and Shakespeare are also offered during the summer for adults, young people and children. Many people who have undertaken these courses have gone on to full-time training. Please refer to www.bsa.bcu.ac.uk for further information on part time or summer school courses. Bristol Old Vic Theatre School activ8 – During the Easter and Summer holidays, Theatre Skills Weeks provide first-hand experience for 11 – 20 year olds of participating in the performing arts.The course concentrates on introducing participants to a wide variety of techniques and skills which are then drawn together during the weekly Open Afternoon sessions. These sessions are designed to allow students to explore all the many facets of acting, voice and movement. Monthly workshops are developed for older participants (16 – 20) who are seriously considering further training with additional workshops being offered in audition techniques along with practical and professional advice for those thinking of embarking on an acting career.
The Central School of Speech and Drama PART-TIME (P/T) SHORT (S/C) SUMMER COURSES (SU) & YOUNG PERSONS (YP) COURSE DURATION CODE Diploma in Acting 24wks S/C Diploma in Musical Theatre 24wks S/C Accent and Dialect Coaching Hourly S/C Acting – An Introduction 8wks S/C Acting – Shakespeare 8wks S/C Acting – Text 1 8wks S/C Acting – Text 2 8wks S/C Actors’ Audition Pieces 2wks SU Audition Techniques 8wks S/C Combat and Stage Fighting 1wk SU Directed Scenes 2wks SU Directing 8wks S/C Individual Voice Coaching for Actors Hourly S/C MA Actor Training and Coaching 2yrs P/T P/T MA Applied Theatre (Drama in the Community and Drama Education) 2yrs MA Movement Studies 2yrs P/T MA Theatre Studies (Performance and the City) 2yrs P/T MA Writing for Stage and Broadcast Media 2yrs P/T Musical Theatre 2wks SU Saturday Drama Class 10wks YP Singing 8wks S/C Spoken English 3wks SU Summer Shakespeare 2wks SU Voice for Overseas Actors Hourly S/C Voice for Performance – An Introduction 8wks S/C Voice & Text with Sara Kestelman 1wk SU Youth Theatre for Actors 1/3wks SU Summer Theatre Company 4 weeks SU Liberating the Text with Nickolas Grace 1 week SU Music Theatre Choral Ensemble 10 weeks YP Moscow Art Theatre School for Actors 8 weeks S/C For further information please call 020 7559 3960 or visit www.cssd.ac.uk Cygnet Training Theatre Workshops are arranged from time to time, usually on a Saturday. Evening classes to enhance and develop performance skills, cater for the absolute beginner, experienced amateur and intending professional. Eight sessions per term. Age 7 to adult.
AGE 17+ 17+ 17+ 17+ 17+ 17+ 17+ 17+ 17+ 17+ 17+ 17+ 17+ Grad age Grad age Grad age Grad age Grad age 17+ 6-17 17+ N/A 17+ 17+ 17+ 18+ 5-17 17+ 17+ 10-16 18+
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Drama Centre London Drama Centre London is an integral part of Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in the University of Arts London. All Performance and Theatre & Television Design short courses are on offer through the year as Evening, Weekend, Christmas, Easter and Summer School courses (as listed below): SUMMER SCHOOL 2009 COURSES Acting for Absolute Beginners Acting Workshops for 16-18 Year Olds Advanced Smallsword and Unarmed Combat Audition Technique for Professional Actors Beginners Swordplay and Unarmed Combat Creating Character and Voice Foundation in Acting Foundation in Singing and Voice Introduction to Acting for Camera Introduction to Acting for Radio Introduction to Classical Acting Introduction to Viewpoints London Theatre Experience for 16-18 Year Olds Physical Acting Playground and Storytelling for Actors Shakespeare for Beginners Stand Up Comedy - Evening Course Television Presenting The Company Voice Skills for Better Presentations
START DATE 20 Jul 10 Aug 10 Aug 27 Jul 13 Jul 13 Jul 17 Aug 10 Aug 03 Aug 01 Sep 10 Aug 01 Sep 06 Jul 06 Jul 07 Sep 27 Jul 06 Jul 17 Aug 03 Aug 20 Jul
DURATION 1 week 1 week 1 week 1 week 1 week 1 week 2 weeks 1 week 1 week 4 days 1 week 4 days 3 weeks 1 week 1 week 2 weeks 4 weeks 1 week 2 weeks 2 days
AGE 18+ 16 to 18s 18+ 18+ 18+ 18+ 18+ 18+ 18+ 18+ 18+ 18+ 16 to 18s 18+ 18+ 18+ 18+ 18+ 18+ 18+
For more information contact the Short Course office on Tel: 020 7514 7015 or visit www.csm.arts.ac.uk/shortcourse Drama Studio London Summer Acting Course – 4 weeks Full-time SU – Drama Studio London Summer Course Diploma – Minimum age 18 For information please contact 020 8579 3897 or visit www.dramastudiolondon.co.uk/courses
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East 15 Acting School East 15 summer courses (ages 17+) – July – August The Summer Courses are aimed at student actors and experienced amateurs wishing to extend their talents and explore new ways of approaching characterisation, using the methodology of East 15 Acting School’s full-time courses. University of Essex credits are available for all courses. Courses are run at both campuses, each rich in character and offering a stimulating setting in which to enjoy a Summer of intensive study. Courses include: Introduction to Acting (one week) Introduction to Acting (three weeks) Acting for Opera (one week) Acting and Performing Shakespeare (one week) Audition Technique (one week) Introduction to Acting on Camera (one week) Introduction to Filmmaking (one week) Stage Combat (one week) Stage Combat (one week) Theatre Directing (one week) Twenty First Century Theatre (two weeks) Physical Theatre (one week) Circus Skills (one week)
w/c 20th Jul or w/c 27th Jul w/c 20th Jul w/c 20th Jul w/c 20th Jul w/c 20th Jul or w/c 27th Jul or w/c 3rd Aug w/c 20th Jul or w/c 27th Jul w/c 27th Jul or w/c 3rd Aug w/c 27th Jul w/c 3rd Aug w/c 27th July w/c 20th Jul w/c 3rd Aug w/c 10th Aug
East 15 Easter, Summer and Sunday Children’s Workshops (ages 8-18) Easter and Summer workshops run in the Easter and summer school holidays. Sunday workshops run on nine Sundays during term-time throughout the year. East 15 Acting School’s Easter, Summer and Sunday workshops are aimed at those interested in learning more about theatre and drama. The workshops are not only about serious work and learning but also about having fun during the school holidays and on Sundays! For more information and bookings please contact East 15 on telephone: 020 8508 5983 or visit: www.east15.ac.uk Guildhall School of Music & Drama MA in Training Actors (Voice) or (Movement) 2yrs P/T Acting in Shakespeare and Contemporary Theatre 3 wks S/C Acting in Musical Theatre 3 wks S/C Our summer courses are designed to offer a stimulating and challenging insight into acting and musical theatre. Excellent accommodation is available in Guildhall’s hall of residence, a short walk away from the School. Courses, which include visits to performances at London theatres, will appeal to various levels of experience, including actors wishing to refresh their skills, propective full-time acting students and those wishing to be introduced to the craft of acting. For further information on our Summer Schools email: dramasummerschool@gsmd.ac.uk
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34 SUMMER SCHOOLS / PART TIME / YOUNG PERSONS COURSES A guide to schools offering short courses
GSA, Guildford School of Acting Saturday School – a centre of excellence for young people 8 years+ who wish to take vocational training seriously. Specialist training is provided for students 16 years+ and adults. Classes in Acting, Singing, Jazz, Tap, Ballet and Musical Theatre styles. Workshops in TV Acting, Radio, Audition Skills, Stage Combat, Voice, Improvisation and other skills. Summer Schools – the following courses held in July/August are offered at reasonable cost and provide either an enjoyable stimulating refresher course or an introduction to basic theatre training. There are no auditions – everyone is welcome. Intensive courses in Acting, Singing or Dance ( 5 days each) Musical Theatre [17 years +] - 2 weeks Audition Techniques [17 years +] - 5 days Acting for Camera [17 years +] - 5 days Directing a Musical [17 years +] - 5 days Youth Theatre [12 – 16 years] - 9 days Italia Conti Courses include a one-year Performing Arts Intensive course and a one-year vocational singing course for talented singers who wish to pursue a professional career in this field. Part Time Schools There are a number of ‘associate’ schools attached to the Italia Conti Academy, which offer part-time classes in drama, dance and singing (ages 3 – adult). These classes take place in a series of locations, normally at the weekends. For further information on associate schools, call 020 7608 0047. LIPA LIPA 4:19 is a weekend performing arts academy for young people aged from 4 to 19. The academy, which has over 500 students, offers acting, singing and dancing classes, run by tutors with wide-ranging experience in the Performing Arts. LIPA 4:19 also offers Summer Schools with a range of themed performing arts weeks for ages seven and upwards. LIPA also runs short courses for adults in performing arts subjects. These feature modules directly selected from our highly acclaimed degree programmes. The courses usually run in our third term and are publicised in February each year on our website.
LAMDA Conducted by the LAMDA Faculty, each summer/short course offers the very best in British theatre training. Many also include visits to West End theatres and an excursion to see the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon. Courses include: Two Week Audition Technique [EFL] – Spring Eight Week Shakespeare and His Contemporaries Four Week Shakespeare Three Week English Communication Skills Through Drama Workshop [EFL] Two Week Physical Theatre Two Week Stage Management Two Week Theatre Lighting Two Week Introduction to Drama School* Two Week Audition Technique* * Each of these courses is open to students aged 16 years and over. Age Requirement With the exception of the Two Week Introduction to Drama School and the Two Week Audition Technique Courses, the minimum entry age for all LAMDA courses is 18. Although there is no upper age limit, students must be of good general health and be capable of undertaking the training. For further information, please visit www.lamda.org.uk or call LAMDA Admissions on 020 8834 0500. Manchester Metropolitan University School of Theatre Offers summer schools and evening classes aimed at aspiring actors as well as teachers and enthusiastic amateurs. For further information contact: Tel: 0161 247 1305 / Email: k.daly@mmu.ac.uk
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Mountview PART-TIME (P/T) & SUMMER COURSES (SU) Foundation Course – Acting Foundation Course – Musical Theatre Introduction to Acting Introduction to Musical Theatre Perform: Acting Perform: Devised Perform: TV/Film Acting Summer School Musical Theatre Summer School Audition Technique Lighting Design & Technology
One Year One Year 10 weeks 10 weeks 2 terms 2 terms 2 term 2 weeks 2 weeks 1 week 1 week
P/T P/T P/T P/T P/T P/T P/T SU SU SU SU
Minimum Minimum Minimum Minimum Minimum Minimum Minimum Minimum Minimum Minimum Minimum
age: age: age: age: age: age: age: age: age: age: age:
17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17
Also a diverse programme of part-time and summer courses for young people aged 6 – 18 yrs. Queen Margaret University For information about available courses please contact: Email: admissions@qmu.ac.uk, Web: www.qmu.ac.uk Rose Bruford College Acting Summer School – Intensive voice and movement classes as you rehearse a contemporary and a Shakespearean play over a two-week full-time course. Residential accommodation available. Over 18’s only. 16+ for non-residential. Part Time Theatre Arts (Acting) – This course is ideal for those wishing to study acting in a professional teaching environment while continuing to work in full-time employment. This is a one year course consisting of three terms, each term consisting of 13 weeks (with a further term possible for ‘advanced’ study). Intakes in September, January and April. Young People’s Courses – Saturday morning and evening workshops for 8 – 17 year olds are run during term time throughout the year. The children are divided into groups based upon age and ability. Easter and Summer Workshops are held during the school holidays and culminate in a performance in the Rose Theatre at the College in Sidcup. Other Courses – The College runs a number of other short courses for professionals working in the industry. For further information contact the College on 020 8308 2600 email: enquiries@bruford.ac.uk / website: www.bruford.ac.uk
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RADA Course 1 year full time / 2 year part time MA in Text and Performance Studies 8 week Acting Shakespeare 4 week Summer School 3 week Skill Development Through Classical Theatre 10 day Contemporary Drama Summer School 10 day Directing – How to Rehearse 1 week Summer School in Scenic Art 1 week Summer School in Property Making 1 week Summer School in Lighting 1 week Summer School in Scenic Design 1 week Summer School in Sound 1 week Summer School in Corset Making 5 day Musical Theatre 5 day European Greats 6 evening session The Role of the Producer 1 year full time Foundation Course in Acting 3 week Young Actors Summer School 1 day Acting Workshops Saturday Youth Group
Age 18+ 18+ 18+ 18+ 18+ 17+ 17+ 17+ 17+ 17+ 17+ 18+ 18+ 18+ 18+ 16-18 16-24 15-20
Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama For information about available courses please contact: Email: dramaworks@rsamd.ac.uk Web:www.rsamd.ac.uk Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama Young Actors Studio – Pre-degree training for talented and committed 15 – 19 year-olds covering all the component areas considered to be essential for any successful actor, including acting, movement and voice. Sundays. For the second successful year the College is running a series of summer courses: Courses Start Date Duration Living Pictures Workshop for Directors & Actors 3th Aug 2 wks Corsetry 20th or 27th July 5 days Body Casting/Mould Making 20th or 27th July 5 days The Essential Performance Space 10th Aug 8 days (Theatre Design with Jean-Guy Lecat) Acting 27th July 2 wks Shakespeare with Michael Bogdanov 13th July 6 days Introduction to Theatre Directing with Michael Bogdanov 23th July 2 days Acting 24th Aug or 7th Sept 14 days For further information on the Young Actors Studio please call 029 20 391 394 or email yas@rwcmd.ac.uk and for Summer Courses call 029 20 391 391 or email shortcourses@rwcmd.ac.uk Website: www.rwcmd.ac.uk/shortcourses