LAMDA Prospectus | 2024-25

LIFE AT

Prospectus 2024-25

INTRODUCTION FROM Mark O’Thomas

Welcome to the 2024-25 LAMDA Prospectus. This prospectus is an indispensable guide for prospective students to our outstanding portfolio of performing arts courses. As one of the world’s oldest drama schools, LAMDA has been a pioneer in the field of conservatoire training for over 160 years. We remain so today, with a transformative approach to training, designed to educate and inspire the next generation of performers, technicians, and directors.

There’s never been a more exciting or rewarding time to train at LAMDA. We were proud to be ranked as the Top UK Drama School for Student Satisfaction in the 2023 National Student Survey results. This fantastic result is a vivid testament to our commitment to providing an exceptional experience to everyone that trains with us. From the courses to student support to living in London.

In a rapidly changing landscape for the creative industries, we’re embedding emerging technologies into our curriculum. Following a £1.9 million grant from the Office for Students, LAMDA will soon be home to a virtual production stage and motion capture studio. These state-of-the-art facilities will ensure that our students graduate with the skills and experience they need to thrive in today’s marketplace.

Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of everything we do here at LAMDA. We work hard to provide an environment where everyone feels welcome, supported, and empowered. Our international community of staff and students encompasses people from an array of backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives, all contributing to a vibrant ensemble.

In this prospectus, you’ll get a sense of the incredible opportunities that a life at LAMDA can provide. I look forward to meeting some of you next year.

Professor Mark O’Thomas, Principal and CEO

INTRODUCTION FROM Benedict Cumberbatch

My time as a student at LAMDA was formative and I retain vivid memories of it being both mindopening and fun. LAMDA is committed to equipping its students across all courses with the knowledge, experience and confidence they need to enter a rapidly evolving industry. Our ensemble approach, along with our embrace of all performance media, and the dedication of students and staff alike are the ingredients that make LAMDA such a special place. As LAMDA’s President, I am pleased to see that the school’s long-held values of inclusivity, rigour and innovation still resonate strongly with LAMDA’s students and staff today.

This prospectus illustrates how our courses are designed to respond to the demands of a vibrant international industry spanning theatre, screen and audio media. With our new virtual production and motion capture facilities, we will further enhance the learning experience both in front of and behind the camera. Through our outstanding teaching and state-of-the-art resources, we will continue to prepare our actors, directors and production and technical arts practitioners to embrace technological change.

This year the Office for Students’ National Student Survey shows LAMDA being recognised by its students as an exceptional place to learn and develop. Our results place us at the top of the drama school segment within the UK’s higher education sector, which is a point of pride for all members of the LAMDA family. LAMDA continues to be a great source of inspiration to me, and I hope when reading this prospectus, you are also inspired to shape the performing arts world by joining our remarkable institution.

Benedict Cumberbatch, President

Our History

Founded in 1861, we are the oldest drama school in the UK and the first such institution to offer acting tuition – defining LAMDA’s role as a pioneer in its field.

In 2003, we moved to our Hammersmith home.

When we introduced our technical training in 1965, it quickly became a prototype for other institutions branching into this area.

LAMDA’s award-winning £28.2 million redevelopment opened in 2017 in Baron’s Court, South West London, the former home of The Royal Ballet School.

In 2021 LAMDA was granted degree awarding powers.

In 2023, LAMDA was awarded £1.9 million of funding from the Office for Students to become one of the first drama schools in the UK to offer Virtual Production and Motion Capture technology training to students in new state-of-the-art facilities.

LAMDA continues to grow. 2023 saw a new course in Musical Theatre launch.

In 2023, LAMDA launched a new 7-year strategy to take us forward to 2030, founded on the values of inclusivity, collaboration and compassion.

Why choose LAMDA?

Pioneering Spirit

At LAMDA, our mission is to seek out and train the exceptional dramatic artists and technicians of every generation, so they can have the most extraordinary impact on the world through their work in theatre, film and television.

That pioneering spirit remains at the heart of our work: we offer an inventive, diverse and inclusive environment for artistic development; we contribute to the progression of the dramatic art form through the new writing projects we commission each year and the companies that emerge from our training; and our students and tutors are encouraged and supported to produce innovative work in their craft.

Our Training

Conservatoire training is, by its nature, selective as we train only the best. With at least 30 contact hours a week, our training is full-time, compared to traditional university courses. All our courses are vocational and taught by experienced tutors and visiting industry professionals and specialists. Together they enable our students to acquire the skills and develop the creativity necessary to excel in highly competitive professions. We develop each student’s individual strengths, talent and potential, and our graduates leave ready for the professional world.

The Ensemble

The ensemble is at the heart of our work; drama is a collaborative art form and we place great emphasis on the individual’s responsibility to the group and the group’s responsibility to the individual. We are proud to cultivate an environment where creativity can flourish. Risk-taking, barrier-breaking and exploration can only occur because attitudes of mutual respect, support and celebration are firmly embedded within LAMDA. Our students work together to bring out the best in each other, hone their individual craft and produce exceptional dramatic art.

Our Facilities

In 2017 we opened the doors to our centre for world-leading drama training, offering our actors, technicians and directors exceptional new training and rehearsal facilities, a screen and audio suite, a dedicated library and three versatile performance venues. In 2023, we welcome new innovations including our new virtual production stage and motion capture studio.

Industry-Ready Graduates

With their exceptional talent and mastery of their craft, our graduates shape the global performing arts industry. Our students leave LAMDA equipped with the technique, skill and professional knowledge they need to enjoy successful and sustainable careers.

Financial Support

We believe funding should not be a barrier to training and there is a wide range of financial support available to students who want to train with us.

The LAMDA Community

At LAMDA, you’ll be part of a passionate community of students, staff and tutors, both during your training and beyond it. Regular social events, cross-course collaborations, student-led performances and other activities mean LAMDA students have plenty of opportunities to get to know each other.

A Liberal Institution

LAMDA is a liberal institution. We believe in free speech and promote a sense of responsibility for one’s actions in our students. In pursuit of excellence, we work with plays and texts that express the widest possible range of views and beliefs. Our students must therefore be willing to work on productions of any of these texts, or play any character these texts may contain, including roles of any gender, race, faith or sexual orientation. Acceptance of a place at LAMDA will be deemed acceptance of our training requirements.

BA (Hons) Professional Acting

3 year course

Application deadline: 11 March 2024

Tuition fees (23/24)*

UK applicants: £9,250 per year

International applicants: £23,005

Highlights

 Industry Showcase(s).

 Train in acting, musical theatre, film, TV and audio.

 Experience classes in: voice, singing, movement, classical and contemporary acting technique, improvisation, self-created work & more.

 Take part in the creation of new writing through workshops with professional playwrights and directors.

About the course

This course is designed to challenge and guide you to become an exceptional, independent artist. At the end of the course, you’ll be ready to contribute intellectually and imaginatively to the creative skills industry.

You’ll be encouraged to take an independent and imaginative approach to the craft, as you build a full range of relevant movement, voice, musical and acting skills.

The skills you’ll learn will draw on the latest developments in the industry, enhanced by your teachers’ knowledge and experience and supported by the advanced performance technologies which we have in our cuttingedge facilities.

The ensemble is at the heart of how we’ll train you. Drama is a collaborative art form and we place great emphasis on the individual’s responsibility to the group and the group’s responsibility to the individual. This creates an atmosphere of mutual respect where creativity can flourish.

You’ll gain confidence during your training, learning that an authentic and enthusiastic approach is the best preparation for a life in a dynamic profession. You’ll learn how to meet challenges head-on from the new knowledge and skills you’ll develop in your training.

Year 1

In the first year, you’ll be introduced to the key skills you’ll need for professional careers in all media areas, such as theatre, film, TV and audio drama. You will get to grips with the essential groundwork in core performance skills of acting, voice work, movement and music. Throughout the year you’ll be guided through an exploration of the craft and process of acting, with personalised feedback and support.

Year 2

You’ll continue your professional and personal development through a range of varied classes.

You’ll start to explore a range of different characters and styles of acting through collaborative projects. This may include American drama, comedy, 19th and early 20th century European naturalism, contemporary texts, Shakespeare and solo performance.

In a specific module, you will explore at more depth how to deliver convincing screen and audio performances.

*Tuition fees are subject to annual review. For up to date information, visit lamda.ac.uk

Year 3

In your final year, you’ll strengthen your skillset and stretch your creative abilities as you perform in productions. Usually staged across our three performance spaces, these productions are directed by industry professionals and senior teaching staff, and are programmed to stretch your creative ability to its fullest.

Leading professionals will run workshops to share their invaluable insights, and you’ll receive lectures and guidance on all aspects of life as a professional actor including accounting, interview and audition techniques. You will also have access to a career counsellor throughout the year.

You will develop your skills by performing in a professionally written, directed, crewed and post-produced short film shot on location as well as working on audio dramas in our studio, and creating your own voice and showreel. Recent LAMDA graduation films have been selected for national and international film festivals.

BA (Hons) Production & Technical Arts: Stage & Screen

3 year course

Application deadline:

1 July 2024

Tuition fees (23/24)*

UK applicants: £9,250 per year

International applicants: £23,005

Highlights

 A hands-on learning experience across various departments, allowing you to explore different areas before selecting a specialised focus in the third year.

 Comprehensive training in stage management, scenic construction, lighting, and sound.

 In years two and three, you have the opportunity to collaborate with the Screen & Audio department on LAMDA films.

 Work with industry experts and final year students from our acting programmes in backstage roles on our public-facing theatre productions and films.

About the course

This comprehensive vocational training will qualify you to be the best in the industry: capable, creative and highly sought-after by employers. Through this industry-leading three-year course, you will acquire the necessary skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience to forge a long lasting career in theatre, film, television and beyond.

With access to LAMDA’s three state-of-the-art professional theatre spaces, as well as a diverse range of workshop and studio facilities, you will collaborate closely with seasoned industry professionals to support LAMDA’s productions. This immersive environment will allow you to unlock your creative potential and gain invaluable practical experience.

Year 1

In the first year of this technical theatre course, you’ll develop a firm grounding in production and technical arts. You’ll explore four core disciplines: stage management, scenic construction, lighting and sound, and you will be introduced to the elements involved in stage, screen and audio production.

Throughout the year, you’ll develop your management skills, learn prop making, health and safety, first aid, fire safety and AutoCAD and Vector Works.

From the first term, you’ll be putting what you’re learning into practice by working on public facing productions at LAMDA in assistant and crew roles. You’ll also get to know the different roles within theatre, television and radio.

Year 2

In your second year, you’ll take it a step further as you undertake four senior production roles on LAMDA shows staged in one of our three performance spaces.

You can choose either to specialise in one area or keep your options open and work across a broader range of roles. The range of modules include options in Stage Management; Lighting; Production Sound; Scenic Construction; Production Management; LX Design; Sound Design; Screen & Audio.

You’ll also undertake a six-week placement. Your placement will give you the chance to put the skills you have learnt into practice in a professional environment. This will be an invaluable opportunity for you to expand on your skillset and make important industry contacts.

*Tuition fees are subject to annual review. For up to date information, visit lamda.ac.uk

Year 3

In your final year, you will undertake three more senior production roles, including at least one as Head of Department. You will have the opportunity to specialise in one department, though this is not essential.

You will also undertake another period of work-based learning within the industry and do an independent project related to your preferred discipline, as well as creating a professional portfolio.

MFA Professional Acting

2 year course

Application deadline:

2 April 2024

Tuition fees (23/24)*

UK applicants: £14,453 per year

International applicants: £24,092

Highlights

 You’ll experience rigorous training covering: advanced acting, screen & audio, devising, music, movement and voice.

 You will perform in productions throughout your graduating year and in an industry invited showcase.

 You will work on a short film with a professional film and post-production crew.

 When you graduate, you’ll leave with a professionally-shot showreel and a voice reel.

 You will learn how to devise and perform your own work.

About the course

Across the two years, you’ll receive frequent, personalised feedback and support to advance your skill-set and accelerate your career. You’ll develop an informed, open, yet questioning, approach to the craft of acting. This will set you up with the skills and confidence to become an independently minded practitioner with considerable professional versatility and creativity.

This Master’s degree in acting offers a rigorous and world-class conservatoire training, combined with postgraduate projects that reflect the demands and standards of the professional industry. The course is open to those from any background, but especially for those who want to shake up the ecosystem of the creative skills industry, and use their abilities to challenge the status quo and shape new landscapes for dramatic art.

Year 1

In your first year, you’ll cover the core disciplines of acting, voice, movement and music in intensive classes, alongside workshop projects which may include contemporary texts, classical plays, and late 19th and early 20th century European naturalism. You’ll also begin to explore how to deliver convincing screen and audio performances, and take part in a new writing project with exciting, pioneering writers, exploring the role of the actor as a collaborative artist.

Year 2

The final year will prepare you to become an independent and standout professional within the industry. You’ll be immersed in a series of performances on stage, screen and in audio drama, including a professionally written, directed, crewed and post-produced short film. The final element of your training will be centred on the collaborative development and performance of a small group piece of original, selfcreated, theatre.

You’ll also have the opportunity to share your artistry, skills and experience with younger audiences and potential theatre-makers by taking part in our annual Shakespeare in Schools programme.

*Tuition fees are subject to annual review. For up to date information, visit lamda.ac.uk

MA Musical Theatre

1 year course

Application deadline: 1 May 2024

Tuition fees (23/24)*

UK applicants: £ 21,000 per year

International applicants: £27,232

Highlights

 Performance opportunities including a musical production, an industryfacing showcase and an Edinburgh Fringe project.

 Practical skills-based classes in acting technique, vocal technique through group singing and 1:1 lessons, dance classes in Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Contemporary dance, and Hip-Hop and associated styles.

 The opportunity to work with a wide range of industry professionals including choreographers and directors, on the creation of new musical theatre.

About the course

This MA Musical Theatre course is designed to deliver world class actor training for those committed to a professional career in musical theatre performance.

Over the 12-month course, students will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of new and existing musical theatre writing, as well as exploring historical and political contexts of the genre. They will work with a wide range of musical theatre practitioners and choreographers to discover a range of approaches to the genre.

Students training on this course will benefit from exploring a variety of musicals and the effective communication of song, choreography and text, and the thoughtful interpretation of lyric and music. The course will culminate in a public-facing musical production, the chance to develop a showreel, and a UK industry-facing showcase.

Graduates will emerge as industry-ready ‘triple threat’ performers with a showreel and a repertoire of solo songs for future auditions. The course aims to provide a route into professional performance work as an actor in Musical Theatre.

MFA Musical Theatre

About the course

Over the 18 month course, applicants will have the opportunity to develop their acting, singing, and dance technique, deepen their understanding of musical theatre on stage and screen, work on new musicals, work with a wide range of musical theatre directors, musical directors, and choreographers, and receive bespoke guidance on developing an ‘audition ready’ repertoire.

Students training on this course will benefit from the opportunity to explore a wide variety of musicals, develop future proof skills, and develop as artists. The first year of the course will culminate in a public-facing musical production and a UK industry facing showcase.

Year two will see you gaining deeper understanding through taught classes and independent research, exploring new trends in Musical Theatre, and gaining a CPD accredited qualification in LAMDA Examinations teaching.

Graduates will emerge industry-ready ‘triple threat’ performers, supported with professional career advice, and a repertoire of solo songs for future auditions. The course aims to provide a route into professional performance work as an actor in Musical Theatre.

18 month course

Application deadline: 1 May 2024

Tuition fees (23/24)*

UK applicants: £21,000 (Year One), £8,490 (Year Two)

International applicants: £27,232 (Year One), £8,490 (Year Two)

Highlights

 Performance opportunities including a musical production, an industryfacing showcase and an Edinburgh Fringe project.

 Practical skills-based classes in acting technique, vocal technique through group singing and 1:1 lessons, dance classes in Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Contemporary dance, and Hip-Hop and associated styles.

 The opportunity to work with a wide range of industry professionals including choreographers and directors, on the creation of new musical theatre.

 Year two will provide further opportunities to teach and carry out independent research.

*Tuition fees are subject to annual review. For up to date information, visit lamda.ac.uk

MA Classical Acting for the Professional Theatre

1 year course

Application deadline:

1 May 2024

Tuition fees (23/24)*

UK applicants:

£27,232

International applicants: £8,490

Highlights

 A deep dive into conservatoire actor training.

 Learn through year-long modules in: acting, voice, textual analysis, contextual studies, movement, music and singing.

 Digital profiles that can be shared with industry and three masterclasses with industry professionals.

 A classical, public-facing production is also staged in the final term of the course.

About the course

This intensive Master’s degree in classical acting is delivered through an inspiring and exhilarating programme of classwork, scene study and workshop performances, culminating in a shared performance in our largest performance space, the Sainsbury Theatre.

Working on plays from the Shakespearean, Jacobean, Spanish Golden Age, French Classical and Restoration periods, you will discover how classical theatre translates across centuries, cultures and languages, and build an awareness of their historical, political and social context, and their impact on modern theatre.

You will take classes in craft skills to develop and strengthen your existing abilities and prepare you for the rehearsal process. Delivered in year long modules, these will include acting (voice, textual analysis and contextual studies), movement, music and singing.

You will progress through the application of your acquired knowledge of both theory and practice as it relates to the intelligent exploration and development of original characters. You will also complete a thesis presentation reflecting on the relationship between your classical training and contemporary theatre practice.

Your intensive year will culminate in the staging of a Shakespeare production to which agents and casting directors are invited.

MFA Classical Acting: Performance and Practice

About the course

This intensive Master’s degree in classical acting is delivered through an inspiring and exhilarating programme of classwork, scene study and workshop performances, including public-facing performances in our largest space, The Sainsbury Theatre. Working on plays from the Shakespearean, Jacobean, Spanish Golden Age, French Classical and Restoration periods, you will discover how classical theatre translates across centuries, cultures and languages, and build an awareness of their historical, political and social context, and their impact on modern theatre.

You will take classes in craft skills to develop and strengthen your existing abilities and prepare you for the rehearsal process. Delivered in year long modules, these will include acting (voice, textual analysis and contextual studies), movement, music and singing.

You will progress through the application of your acquired knowledge of both theory and practice as it relates to the intelligent exploration and development of original characters. You will also complete a thesis presentation reflecting on the relationship between your classical training and contemporary theatre practice.

Your first year will culminate in the staging of a Shakespeare production to which agents and casting directors are invited. Year two will include two modules: pedagogies of classical acting and a new classics project.

18 month course

Application deadline: 1 May 2024

Tuition fees (23/24)*

UK applicants: £27,232 (Year One), £8,490 (Year Two)

International applicants: £27,232 (Year One), £8,490 (Year Two)

Highlights

 A deep dive into conservatoire actor training.

 Modules including Acting in Classical Theatre, Movement and Physicality in Theatre and Voice, Speech, Song and Classical Text.

 Masterclasses with industry professionals

 A classical, public facing production in the final term of the first year.

*Tuition fees are subject to annual review. For up to date information, visit lamda.ac.uk

MA Directing

1 year course

Application deadline:

1 May 2024

Tuition fees (23/24)*

UK applicants: £17,766 per year

International applicants: £24,941

Highlights

 Understand an actor’s process through core LAMDA training with classes in acting, voice, movement and singing.

 Participate in seminars in text analysis, interpretation and screen processes.

 Assist professional directors on onsite or digital projects, work on an original short film and an actors’ workshop at LAMDA.

 Collaborate with LAMDA actors to devise an original piece of theatre.

 In the final term, you will direct a play of your choice as part of the Orange Tree Theatre’s Greenhouse Festival for emerging artists.

About the course

This course will provide talented, emerging directors with a contemporary and wide-ranging vocational postgraduate training.

At the start of the course, you will observe and participate in core LAMDA training alongside MFA Professional Acting students, working across the disciplines of acting, voice, movement and singing in order to develop a working knowledge and understanding of the actor’s process. You will participate in seminars in text analysis and interpretation, and the aesthetics and processes particular to screen, as well as directing your fellow students in short scene studies.

In your second and third terms, you will assist professional directors on projects, onsite or digital productions, an original short film and an actors’ workshop at LAMDA. During the spring, you will collaborate with LAMDA actors to devise an original piece of theatre – an opportunity to put into practice what you have learnt and develop your dramaturgical skills.

Your year will finish with you directing and realising a play of your choice in one of our performance spaces including invited industry. In the past, these guests have included Natalie Abrahami, Ned Bennett, Giles Croft, Mike Longhurst, Roxanna Silbert and Lyndsey Turner

*Tuition fees are subject to annual review. For up to date information, visit lamda.ac.uk

MA

The application and audition process

Apply via UCAS or directly depending on the course. Submit your application and prepare for your audition or interview.

If you’re auditioning for an acting course your first round audition is a self tape.

If your self-tape is successful, you’ll be invited to a remote audition online (second stage) or straight to a recall in person at LAMDA (third stage).

If you’re applying for the MA Directing course or Production & Technical Arts you’ll prepare for an interview.

Apply via UCAS or directly depending on the course. Submit your application and prepare for your audition or interview.

US based applicant

If you’re auditioning for an acting course your first round audition is a self tape.

If your self-tape is successful, you’ll be invited to a remote audition online (second stage) or straight to a recall in person at LAMDA (third stage).

If you’re applying for the MA Directing course or Production & Technical Arts you’ll prepare for an interview.

US applicants should apply directly to LAMDA. Submit your application and prepare for your audition or interview.

You’ll be offered an inperson audition as part of our North America Tour.

If your in-person first round audition is successful, you will be invited to an in-person recall (second stage) in New York or Los Angeles at a later date.

UK applicant

International Applicant

What’s required for the self-tape?

The self-tape is the first round audition for all of our acting courses.

Depending on the course you’re applying for, you will be asked to submit:

Š A 2-3 minute contempoary monologue from a play or script of your choice.

Š A 2-3 minute classical monologue from a play or script of your choice.

Š 2 contrasting musical theatre songs (accompanied by backing track or pianist).

Š A brief introduction to yourself.

What’s required for in the recall?

Recalls take place in person. The process and requirements depend on the course you’re applying for, and details will be send out ahead of time. There is a small fee for in-person recalls.

Accessible Interviews, Auditions & Training

We are striving to make our interviews, auditions and training accessible to all and we endeavour to support any access needs that you require in order to audition or interview for LAMDA. The best way for us to tailor your audition or interview to your needs is to add any detail or requests into your application form and we will strive to accommodate these.

Equally if you require support completing your application form or have any questions, contact us via admissions@lamda.ac.uk

Our building and facilities

The building is a hive of activity. Students from our courses train every weekday. Outside of these times, students might be found in rehearals or public performances which are open to supporters, general public, schools and industry guests to attend. On the weekends our building plays host to LAMDA Exams learners for our London Public Centre events.

Screen & Audio

We have recording and film equipment and an audio studio for voice overs, short films, self-created work and digital showcase scenes.

New technology

LAMDA has been awarded £1.9 million by the Office for Students to install cutting-edge technology, including a virtual production stage and motion capture equipment, equipping our students with the skills and experience to succeed in a rapidly changing industry.

Theatres

The theatre spaces and cafe / bar areas play host to productions throughout the school year. Industry guests, friends and family and the general public are regularly invited to watch performances in person.

The Sainsbury Theatre, built in 2017, is a proscenium arch theatre seating 220 with a full height fly tower.

The Carne Studio Theatre and Linbury Theatre are black box studio theatres, which provide flexible and accessible performance spaces. They seat 120 and 90 and are both based on the ground floor of the building.

Studios

LAMDA has 16 rehearsal studios available, with the largest being 216 square metres. The studios are state-of-the-art, light, bright spaces with high ceilings.

The large studios reflect the exact stage size of the theatre spaces below, making them versatile and useful spaces for our students to rehearse in, and a true reflection of the theatres they will perform in. There are three dance studios with mirrored walls and ballet barres, and 13 of the studios are equipped with sprung vinyl flooring suitable for dance, movement and stage combat.

The Library

Students also benefit from a library filled with everchanging new works, plays and thought-provoking critical texts that reflect the curriculum. Students also have access to online journal directories to assist with their dissertations, research and academic assignments.

You’ll notice the affectionately known room ‘Hogwarts’ on the map. Choral singing and music often take place in this grand looking rehearsal room.

Living in London

Set in West London, LAMDA offers an ideal location for students seeking a career in the theatre. Within 30 minutes you can be in the heart of London’s glamorous West End, home to some of the best theatres and productions in the world.

Accommodation at LAMDA

Starting your LAMDA journey is an exciting time. We understand that students may be emigrating to the UK, moving to London, or may be living independently for the first time. We’re here to help make the process as straight-forward as possible. Our admissions team are on hand to advise and support at every step, whether that’s guidance on where to live or help looking through important documents.

Once you’ve accepted your place at LAMDA, it’s time to start thinking about where you’re going to live and making that move. LAMDA is a small drama school and does not offer onsite accommodation - although we do offer accommodation options in West London for those on some of our seasonal short courses and Semester programmes (for an additional cost).

You may wish to explore these options:

Š Privately rented rooms in a house or flat share

Š Living in a private room as a lodger with another person or family

Š Live in local halls of residence

Š Commuting from your family home, if it’s local to LAMDA

Our admissions team will introduce you to other offer holders and can connect you with current students who will be able to share any openings in their flat orhouse shares, as well as offering advice.

If you’re looking for a more traditional Halls of Residence experience, there are student accommodation buildings dotted around London which are within commuting distance of LAMDA. These can be expensive, but local ones can be found in Ravenscourt Park, Notting Hill and Westminster. Take a look at the links below for more information.

www.ravenscourthouse.com

www.chapter-living.com/properties/portobello

www.louisehouse.co.uk

London has a wealth of housing options to choose from. You’ll find LAMDA in South West London. It’s a short walk from Barons Court and Hammersmith tube station. Discover more information on our website including safety tips for viewing houses and information on how our students balance their training with commuting. For further information and support reach out to our admissions team via admissions@lamda.ac.uk

Tuition fees

BA (Hons) Professional Acting

BA (Hons) Production and Technical Arts: Stage & Screen

Cert HE Performing Arts

Spring 2024 Semester

Autumn 2024 Semester

MFA Professional Acting

MA Classical Acting for the Professional Theatre

MFA Classical Acting: Practice and Performance

MA Musical Theatre

UK applicants

Š Undergraduate student loan. If you’re a full-time student, you can get up to £9,250.

Maintenance loan

You have to give details of your household income and your course start date. The loan is paid directly into your bank account at the start of each term and can support with living costs. You have to pay the loan back.

If your course lasts longer than 30 weeks and 3 days, you could get extra money included as part of your maintenance loan. This is called a Long Course Loan.

You can use the student finance calculator to estimate how much Maintenance Loan you’ll get - it will also tell you if you’re eligible for extra grants or allowances.

You may be eligible for funding support to help cover the costs of tuition fees and living expenses.

Advanced Learner Loan

You may be eligible to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover you tuition fees. The UK government website provides detailed information on entry requirements here.

You may also be able to get money from the Loan Bursary Fund after you’ve received a letter approving your Advanced Learner Loan. Find out more on our website.

The money can help pay for things like:

accommodation and travel | course materials and equipment | childcare | classroom assistance for a disability or learning difficulty - once you’re assessed by your college or training provider

US applicants

LAMDA is approved by the US Dept for Education to participate in the US Federal Direct Loan Program. Our Federal School Code is G21086. All full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses lasting a year or more are covered. These are:

BA (Hons) Professional Acting | MA Classical Acting | MFA Professional Acting | BA (Hons) Production and Technical Arts: Stage & Screen | BA (Hons) Production and Technical Arts (top-up)

If you wish to apply for US Federal Loan funding, please first read the Student Guide to Direct Loans and the Consumer Information. Students receiving US Federal funding must meet strict attendance and progress requirements, which are explained in this guide to Satisfactory Academic Progress.

You may also apply for funding to student loan company, Sallie Mae. LAMDA is also eligible to receive funding via the US Veterans Administration.

The financial aid information page FinAid provides a free, comprehensive and objective guide to student financial aid in the USA. It includes sections on study abroad and an online database search engine, FastWEB.

International Applicants

Is there funding available for my country?

The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) is a helpful resource to find out what funding you may be eligible for.

We also recommend contacting the Department of Education in your home country for details of any government scholarships or funding which may be available for overseas study.

Postgraduate support

If you’re starting a master’s degree, you could get a Postgraduate Master’s Loan to help with course fees and living costs.

Funding for postgraduate loans is different if: you normally live in Scotland | you normally live in Wales | you normally live in Northern Ireland

Applications for these schemes should be made directly to the Student Loans Company.

Make sure you complete your application as early as possible to be assessed for the right level of financial support.

Scholarships and bursaries

There are many ways you can be supported to fund your training. Depending on your financial circumstances, there are scholarships to help with course fees and living costs, as well as audition fee-waivers - so you don’t need to pay to audition - and separate support to cover things like travel costs. Be sure to visit the ‘support your training’ section of our website for full details and the most upto-date information, or drop us an email at admissions@lamda.ac.uk.

I’M FROM I WANT TO STUDY I MAY BE ELIGIBLE TO SUPPORT MY TRAINING THROUGH

BA (Hons) Professional Acting

MFA Professional Acting

Production & Technical Arts

MA Directing

MA/MFA in Musical Theatre

Foundation Diploma

Semester Programme

BA (Hons) Professional Acting

MFA Professional Acting

Production & Technical Arts

MFA

ALL OTHER COUNTRIES

Visit the LAMDA website for more infomation on the funding options available to our international students or contact our Admissions Team with any questions. If you are from outside the UK /EU or US, we recommend you also contact the Department of Education in your home country for details of government scholarships or funding available for overseas study.

LAMDA’s Scholarship & Bursaries Scheme

Our Scholarships & Bursaries programme currently provides full or partial financial support to one in four students whilst training at LAMDA. We award over £500,000 annually in means-tested financial aid for people from lowincome and/or underrepresented backgrounds towards tuition fees or maintenance costs. If you are offered a place to train at LAMDA, you will be invited to apply for a LAMDA scholarship.

Please be aware that scholarships are in high demand at LAMDA, and that competition is fierce. Applicants should explore all external funding options available to them and will be required to take out any applicable loans as a prerequisite to applying for scholarship support.

LAMDA John Wood Fulbright Award (MA Only)

Also Available

Audition/Interview Fee Waivers

LAMDA is able to offer a number of free audition and interview places each year for people from low-income backgrounds. Please see our website for more information before submitting your application to LAMDA.

Study Abroad Funding

Students coming to LAMDA as part of a Study Abroad programme should speak to their home institution about funding options.

Other Scholarship Opportunities

LAMDA works with a number of partners to offer additional scholarship opportunities. This includes the ITV Tony Warren Bursary Award (available to students from low-income households in the North-West of England), The Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation (available to incoming students on the BA in Production and Technical Arts course), The Society of London Theatre and The BAFTA Scholarship Programme. Additionally, the MA Directing course is now available for partial funding.

Student support and wellbeing

Embarking on an intensive vocational course possibly in a new city and living on your own for the first time is exciting but can also be stressful. It is very important that you look after your physical and mental health and LAMDA offers several routes to access support should you need it. Below we explain which staff can offer you help when you need it.

When you come to train with us, we want to ensure you feel your best, so that you can reach your full potential. We understand that sometimes when you’re faced with new situations and the pressures of student life, it can become overwhelming. At LAMDA you’ll have access to a range of networks and people who are there to help you make the most of your time with us.

A flexible approach to assessments

The nature of the training at LAMDA ensures that the majority of assessment is undertaken through practice. Where a written exam or sight reading is required, special arrangements can be made. In appropriate cases students may use technology to assist them.

People

Our Admissions team are there to provide support as you transition into student life and will be in touch with applicants at each stage of their journey.

At LAMDA we have a dedicated wellbeing department, offering a safe and non-judgmental space throughout the year to speak about your mental health or wellbeing.

Our Student Wellbeing Manager, can help you to process anything difficult you might be experiencing and help you to access further support (such as counselling) if needed. The Student Wellbeing Manager’s role is to engage with students through difficult and overwhelming times by taking a problem-solving and practical approach to identify tools and strategies to overcome adversity. Students can self-refer via email or be refered by members of staff. They will then be offered a one to one session to help signpost resources and offer advice and support of a mental health and wellbeing nature.

Students may wish to talk to the Student Wellbeing Manager if they are feeling:

Š Overwhelmed and unable to cope

Š Experiencing low mood and are feeling hopelessness

Š Experiencing unhelpful thinking patterns or dark and intrusive thoughts

Š Are looking for advise on resilience and self-care

Š Are feeling lost, lonely, and disconnected

Š Have been or are experiencing a difficult life event or trauma

Š Simply need a safe place to share

Our Student Advisor, is available to act on any concerns you may need to raise throughout your training. Clio offers advice and guidance to those who are in need of help with anything from finances and accommodation to wellbeing. Clio also works closely with the Student Union Presidents in order to improve and develop different areas of the school.

LAMDA operates a personal tutoring system where all students are allocated a personal tutor. The personal tutor ensures that our students feel safe and supported in all matters. The tutor will be a member of LAMDA’s staff but may be selected from any of our departments. They act as the first port of call to assist students with matters relating to their personal development and progress as appropriate.

Services

Online Support: Togetherall

LAMDA students have access to free online support with Togetherall. Togetherall provides a safe space online to get things off your chest, explore your feelings, get creative and learn how to self-manage your mental health and wellbeing.

Counselling

If after accessing the Togetherall support students feel that they need further support they should contact the Student Wellbeing Manager who can discuss further options including referrals for counselling. Students are initially approved for six sessions which may be increased at the counsellor’s suggestion. The counselling service is off campus and confidential and students are usually seen within 7-10 days of their referral. Students can request access to counsellors from different backgrounds and with different specialisms so that they match their needs. Some students may need long-term counselling support. It is important to register with your GP at the start of your training.

Disabled Students Allowance and mental health support

If you are a UK student on an HE course with a long term mental health issue such as Depression or Anxiety, you may be eligible for added support through the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). For more information see: www.gov.uk/disabled-students-allowance-dsa or speak to the Admissions Team.

Special educational needs, long term health problems and disabilities – Access and reasonable adjustments

Students are supported to create a Learning Agreement. This is an agreement between you and LAMDA that explains to staff what kind of support you might need, and what adjustments they can make in classes to help you feel fully included, as well as what can be expected of you.

Dyslexia / Dyspraxia / Specific Learning Differences and neurodiversity

LAMDA can organise initial screening for any student who believes they may be dyslexic or possess a learning difference and possibly offer a full diagnostic assessment. (Please note some SpLDs such as AD(H)D and ASD will need to be diagnosed by a GP or other specialist.) The assessment will determine the level of student support required, if any.

Successful applications for Disabled Students Allowance will provide the student with specialist one-on-one support and other practical help.

D/deaf and visually impaired students

Any D/deaf or visually impaired student will be provided for on an individual basis; however LAMDA does not employ specialist support staff. LAMDA has provision to provide Braille texts and welcomes students with guide dogs. D/deaf students who require note takers and signers should contact providers such as the Deaf Agency who can provide further information. There is a great demand for signers and note-takers, so students are advised to arrange the support as soon as they have been offered a place.

Physiotherapy

LAMDA Students who sustain an injury through their work at LAMDA can access physiotherapy if needed. Students will need to speak to the Admissions and Student Services Manager in the first instance in order to get a referral. Students will generally be supported for a small number of sessions. Students with long-term physiotherapy may need to self-fund long term treatment that is not covered by the NHS.

Our graduates and alumni

Throughout our over 160-year history, LAMDA Alumni have go on to become creatives, innovators, actors, musical theatre performers, directors and technical artists across the performing arts sector and wider creative industries.

Today, our graduates continue to forge long-lasting, successful careers that are transforming the landscape of the arts. These are just some of the destinations where our alumni can be found across stage, screen and audio.

Here are just some of their stories

Jonathan Ajayi graduated from LAMDA in 2018 with a BA (Hons) in Professional Acting. During his final year at LAMDA, he was cast in a lead role in The Brothers Size at The Young Vic and Ben Bond’s film The Drifters, which quickly led to roles in BBC’s Noughts + Crosses and DC’s Wonder Woman: 1984 after graduation. Jonathan was recognised as one of Screen Daily’s ‘2021 Stars of Tomorrow’ and continues to be an advocate for representation and pathways into the arts for Global Majority actors.

Arsema Thomas, graduated in 2022 from the MFA Professional Acting programme and can be seen as Lady Agatha Danbury in Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story on Netflix, produced by the renowned Shonda Rhimes. Mischief Theatre, created by a group of students at LAMDA who were ‘serious about silliness.’ The theatre company is now a global success with multiple productions in the West End and an extended run on Broadway. We’ve had the privilege of inviting Mischief back to LAMDA to host workshops and masterclasses. Our resident photographer Sam Taylor is an alum of LAMDA. He now works with the likes of Netflix, BBC and the National Theatre, capturing moments on film, theatre and tv sets to promote the production, programme or film. When not on set, Sam works with LAMDA students to capture rehearsals, productions, and behind the scenes of our Actors showcase. You’ll see Sam’s photos on the walls around our building as part of his annual exhibition.

Production and Technical Arts Alum Tingying Dong first came to London to train at LAMDA from China after travelling and falling in love with the theatre scene. Since graduating she has worked on radio plays and short films. Her coursemates work in film and TV using the transferrable skills from their course at LAMDA.

Many graduates and alumni continue to collaborate and work together beyond LAMDA. Unbelievable played at Mercury Theatre this summer before transferring to the West End. The production features Lighting Design by Natasha Chivers and stars Yolanda Ovide Rosa Hesmondhalgh ’s play Madame Ovary is heading to the United States later this year, when it will open in Philadelphia. Rosa worked in collaboration with Emily Carewe (now Executive Director at Theatre 503) on MishMash Festival in 2022, the first festival of its kind at LAMDA celebrating self-created work at LAMDA and supporting emerging creatives.

Rebecca Frecknall is an award-winning director, she directed Cabaret at the Almeida Theatre and will direct a new adaptation of The House of Bernarda Alba at the National Theatre in November 2023, starring fellow alum Harriet Walter. Polly Findlay is directing the new production of The Sound of Music at the Chichester Festival Theatre, with Gina Beck as Maria, after her success directing Assassins Tramaine Reindorf who graduated in 2021, was the Associate Director of Possession, which ran at Arcola Theatre in the summer of 2023.

2023 graduate Tyler Cameron was one of three actors awarded the BBC Carleton Hobbs Bursary Award, he will join the Radio Drama Company in late July after completing his BA (Hons) Professional Acting course at LAMDA. Zoe Zak another 2023 graduating actor was also a finalist.

The Radio Drama Company (RDC), which was founded in 1939, allows freshly discovered acting talent the chance to work alongside established actors in a wide range of radio productions. We can’t wait to see what they do next.

Support leaving LAMDA

LAMDA’s training is about longevity -

working with students

beyond, in all their ventures. Graduates leave LAMDA industry ready. Here’s how...

school,

Š All students work with the latest technologies to meet the skills required for the current landscape and professional world.

Š All of our students work with industry professionals and visiting creatives including directors, writers and visiting specialists for their final year productions on our Acting courses, during their MA Directing course or as part of a masterclass. New productions have been workshopped and first performed at LAMDA in collaboration with our students in previous years.

Š We host a LAMDA Lunch series, where we invite alumni from a range of industries to talk to our final year students to inspire them and provide alternative perspectives from our past students.

Š Production & Technical Arts students have the opportunity to take part in a placement during their final year.

Š Our Industry Liaison supports our graduating students from representing them in conversations between industry contacts to providing preparatory masterclasses.

Š Our final year acting students benefit from opportunities to take part in an industry facing showcase in the UK and, if eligible, the US in New York and Los Angeles.

Beyond LAMDA Mentoring Network

Our mentoring network, allows our final-year MFA and BA (Hons) Professional Acting students to continue to be supported by LAMDA and a suitable mentor after they graduate.

LAMDA Connect

We listened to feedback and requests from alumni who were keen to re-connect with fellow classmates and support one another post-graduation, so we launched a community platform called LAMDA onnect. The platform allows our alumni globally across all sectors and industries to keep in touch, collaborate and share their projects with one another.

not only

while they’re physically at the

but

Research and knowledge exchange

Areas of specialist interest include:

Š Virtual Production and Motion Capture workflow and performance techniques

Š Reflective research practices

Š Inclusive practice in teaching, performance, and production

Š Application of acting and performance for mental health & wellbeing

Š Local growth and regeneration through green initiatives in West London

Š Classical texts (e.g. Shakespeare, Jacobean, Greek dramas)

Š Voice & Singing

Š Lighting & Sound

Š Stage & Production Management

Š Creative Social Enterprise and Entrepreneurship

Š Leadership & Confidence Building through the LAMDA Exams Syllabus

Š Local growth and regeneration through green initiatives in West London

Š International projects and programmes with global HE partners

Š Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) with businesses and industry across a range of sectors

Š Co-hosting research conferences, including the Comparative Drama Conference.

LAMDA is a member of Conservatoires UK, the Federation of Drama Schools, GuildHE, the LBHF Climate Alliance, the LBHF Industrial Strategy Board, and Digital Network West.

For more information or to discuss a potential partnership, please contact Bethany McDonald Shepherd, Head of Innovation, at bethany.mcdonald.shepherd@lamda.ac.uk

Certificate of Higher Education in Performing Arts

6 month course

Applications open: TBC

Application deadline:

1 June 2024

Tuition fees (23/24)*

UK applicants: £11,050

International applicants: TBC

Highlights

 Develop a foundation in actor training

 Improve your audition skills

 Take part in a screen and devised project

 Learn more about production, lighting, sound and music

 Undertake a graduating show

About the course

Experience one of the best and newly reimagined Performing Arts Cert HE courses in the UK, with world-class training and incredible opportunities. Our programme will provide you with a strong foundation in the essential skills associated with actor training. This will prepare you for successful drama school auditions and equip you with everything you need to go on to further conservatoire training.

You’ll complete the course with the confidence and abilities to create new work, approach different media, and develop your own artistic voice. Modules encompass a range of different performance styles, periods, practitioners, and playwrights.

Our approach is well-rounded, encompassing musical and technical elements of performance, ensuring that students develop a creative understanding of everything involved in the practice of theatre making.

Semester Programme in Classical Acting

About the course

If you want to immerse yourself in classical texts and get specialist teaching from brilliant industry professionals, this intensive 14-week study abroad programme is for you.

Taking place each autumn and spring, the course is carefully designed to develop your repertoire of practical skills so you can achieve your potential as an actor.

You’ll learn the essential core techniques through classes which cover topics such as acting, voice, movement, physical theatre and singing.

14 week course

Application deadline: 1 December 2023 (Spring 2024 Semester)

Tuition fees (23/24)*

UK applicants: £4,625

International applicants: £11,176

Highlights

 Study scenes from Shakespeare’s histories and tragedies, and from English comedy of manners pieces.

 Attend exclusive masterclasses with leading industry professionals and alumni.

 Fully immerse yourself in life at LAMDA with fulltime, in-person training.

Tuition fees are subject to annual review. For up to date information, visit lamda.ac.uk

Short Courses

Our short courses have been curated to meet the needs of specific audiences, so whether you’re a professional actor, looking to bolster your CV in a different area or gain an insight into training on a full time vocational level, there’s a short course for you.

Our seasonal programme runs each year in Spring, Summer and Autumn with weekend, evening and school holiday courses available. Short courses vary, ranging from 8-week accredited Summer Shakespeare School through to Intro to Screen, Acting in English and many more.

Visit lamda.ac.uk/courses/short-courses-lamda for more information.

A unique part of LAMDA is its LAMDA Exams. We are an awarding body offering world renowned qualifications in communication and performance.

We inspire over 100,000 learners across the globe each year with our dynamic qualifications. Working towards a LAMDA qualification can help learners develop lifelong skills, from becoming confident communicators and public speakers to enhancing creative performance skills.

Our exams are for everyone, they reflect the values of the drama school and there’s no upper age limit or boundary to start teaching either. We aim to inspire the next generation whether they’re shy and beginning to fall in love with the arts or whether they flourish on stage.

Students on our acting degree programmes at LAMDA learn how to teach the qualifications as part of their final year, allowing them to teach students themselves once they graduate in performing arts, literature, poetry and mime.

‘My child now has the poise, confidence and speaking skills to go into unknown situations and talk to individuals and groups’

Did you know

LAMDA Exams can count towards the Duke of Edinburgh award and can help with Higher Education and university applications as they carry UCAS points.

What exams we offer

Introductory exams

Performance exams: Acting, Miming, Devising Drama, Musical Theatre, Shakespeare

Communication exams: Speaking Verse and Prose, Reading for Performance, Speaking in Public, PCertLAM

‘The skills I gained from LAMDA Exams undoubtedly lead me to where I am today’

Ways to contact us

How to find us

155 Talgarth Road

London

W14 9DA

Speak to students

Read blogs and vlogs written and created by our students. Reach out to them via our website with questions about the student experience lamda.ac.uk/life-lamda/meet-our-student-ambassadors

Contact Admissions

To speak to our Admissions team about accommodation, Visas, applying through Clearing or questions in relation to individual applications:

Tel: [+44] 020 8834 0500

Email: admissions@lamda.ac.uk

Contact LAMDA Exams

To speak to a member of our LAMDA Exams customer service team: Tel: [+44] 020 8834 0530

Email: exams@lamda.ac.uk

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