OPEN
2022
OPEN
Course Guide
NIDA acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands on which we learn and tell stories, the Bidjigal and Gadigal people of the Eora nation. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander elders past and present who have cared for land, water and story on these lands for generations. We also recognise the work and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, workers and creatives within the NIDA Community. Sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.
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CON TENTS
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Hello and welcome
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Learning at NIDA
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Industry placements and field trips
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Productions and showcases
12 Alumni 14
Our campus
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Student life
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NIDA career pathways
48 How to apply WHICH COURSE IS BEST FOR YOU? BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS
MASTER OF FINE ARTS
VOCATIONAL DIPLOMAS
These three-year practice-based courses provide intensive and immersive learning, as you collaborate to create and perform theatrical productions, films, events and exhibitions.
These 15-30 month postgraduate courses are founded on critical enquiry, experimentation and innovation.
These one-year intensive courses provide you with hands-on skills and knowledge for a range of arts and entertainment industry roles as a pathway into employment or towards further studies.
22 Acting 24 Costume 26
Design for Performance
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Properties and Objects
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Scenic Construction and Technologies
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Technical Theatre and Stage Management
51 BFA – application requirements
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Cultural Leadership
36 Directing 38
Writing for Performance
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Design for Performance (offered in 2023)
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Voice (offered in 2023)
53 MFA – application requirements
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Live Production and Technical Services
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Musical Theatre
46 Screen and Media (Specialist Make-up Services) 47 Stage and Screen Performance 54 Diplomas – application requirements
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HELLO AND WELCOME With over 60 years experience delivering Australia’s leading training for creative artists, NIDA is recognised as one of the top 5 drama schools in the world by The Hollywood Reporter, ranking alongside New York’s Juilliard School and Pittsburgh’s Carnegie Mellon University.
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In this Course Guide you’ll find information about NIDA – the National Institute of Dramatic Art – and how to apply, as well as insights into life at NIDA and the various support avenues available to you during your time studying. In addition to our world-famous Acting degree, we offer Bachelor, Masters and Vocational Diploma courses for performers, storytellers, makers and technicians across stage, screen and beyond – providing practice-based and industry informed training for everything from Directing to Set Design and Stage Management. What makes NIDA unique? NIDA is dedicated to creating and nurturing the world’s best storytellers and unlocking the power of the performing arts across stages, screens, future media and beyond. You will be at the centre of a hands-on, collaborative learning experience with industry practitioners. You will be learning from expert staff, guest artists and professionals and become part of invaluable ready-made industry networks. While studying here you will learn the tools, the skills and gain confidence to develop your voice, ideas and stories. These stories will shape our culture and our great nation. Our state-of-the-art facilities will allow you to learn and experiment with the suite of resources available in the industry. As Australia’s leading performing arts educator, this position comes with a valued responsibility to the community within our halls and beyond. We are committed to ensuring that NIDA is a genuinely inclusive environment for all and we are actively increasing the diversity of NIDA’s student cohort and staff as we actively shift our internal practices and external focus to ensure we reach all communities across the country. This year, we are extending our recruitment and waiving the application fee, giving more people the opportunity to apply to NIDA. We want to break down some barriers so talented individuals all around Australia feel represented, welcomed, and supported throughout all of our work. We are also furthering our support for First Nations and under-represented artists.
‘At NIDA we are united by the same overwhelming passion to create. We all walked into this place with passion and potential and walked out of it well equipped to turn our dreams into a reality.’ Justice Jones, MFA Directing 2020 Assistant Director Home I’m Darling, Sydney Theatre Company 5
LEARNING AT NIDA NIDA’s learning environment is anchored in practice – with a commitment to take the theory up and out of the textbook and onto the stage, screen, and beyond. With regular opportunities in theatrical and screen productions and showcases, you’ll have a wealth of opportunities to safely learn, practise and most importantly, experiment gloriously. MAKING VALUABLE INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS In the experience of doing, NIDA brings you into contact with world-class professionals to produce stage and screen productions. In the process of developing and premiering new Australian works with industry guests and screen and performing arts partners, NIDA provides an invaluable opportunity to develop working relationships with industry professionals while studying. Examples of recent artists working with NIDA students include: → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → →
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Finn Caldwell (UK specialist in theatrical puppetry, War Horse) Tim Chappel (Oscar-winning costume designer, Priscilla Queen of the Desert) Judy Davis (multi-award-winning actor/director, Mystery Road, The Dressmaker) Wesley Enoch (artistic director, theatre director, writer) Eugenia Farrell (Senior Stage Manager at Opera Australia) Kim Hardwick (stage director/theatre producer, The Campaign) Jennifer Irwin (Costume Designer, Bangarra Dance Theatre) Priscilla Jackman (Director, Bluebeard’s Castle: Opera Australia) Adam Mada (leading magician, entertainer – illusion coach and consultant) Dr Liza-Mare Syron (Indigenous Scientia Senior Lecturer UNSW and Senior Artistic Associate at Moogahlin Performing Arts) Dr Nithya Nagarajan (interdisciplinary performance maker, creative producer and cultural researcher) Jim Sharman (director, The Rocky Horror Picture Show) Alana Valentine (playwright, Barbara and the Camp Dogs) Annette Shun Wah (Artistic Director, OzAsia Festival and Contemporary Asian Australian Performance) Beryl Waldron (Senior Ladies Cutter, Opera Australia) Kip Williams (Artistic Director, Sydney Theatre Company)
‘My top tip to students would be to find the joy and play. My best work came out of having the freedom to explore and not being afraid to take a leap of faith. That was a game changer when I realised that you can work hard and laugh harder.’ Alan Zhu, BFA Acting 2021
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BFA (Design for Performance) student Lucy McCullough on a work placement with film production designer Annie Atkins, in 2019
INDUSTRY PLACEMENTS AND FIELD TRIPS A major highlight of a NIDA course is field trips, secondments and work placements with leading industry organisations. We provide opportunities for students to put their training into practice in dynamic working environments. With an extensive network, built over 60 years with TV, film and theatre professionals, you can secure outstanding opportunities on major international productions shooting domestically, alongside a diverse suite of placement possibilities, many of which lead to employment and future projects. A few highlights include: → Theatre companies – Melbourne Theatre Company, National Theatre (UK), Sydney Theatre Company → Design studios – Annie Aktins Studio (UK), Christopher Oram (UK) Alexander Dodge Design (USA) → Film production companies – Bazmark Inc (Elvis), Kennedy Miller Mitchell ( Three Thousand Years of Longing ) → TV and digital content creators – ABC, Seven Network (Dancing with the Stars), Netflix, Stan, Disney Australia → Opera and ballet companies – Australian Ballet, Birmingham Royal Ballet (UK), English National Opera (UK), Opera Australia, Pinchgut Opera, Sydney Dance Company → Staging and event companies – Geordie Productions (Canada), Stagekings Australia → Costume production companies – Hawthorn Tailoring (UK), Jane Law (UK), Sydney Costume Workshop (Hamilton) → Festivals and events – Adelaide Festival, Edinburgh Festival (UK), Summerworks, Festival Toronto (Canada), Theatertreffen Festival Berlin (Germany), Sydney Festival → Performing arts institutes – Cambodia Living Arts (Phnom Penh, Cambodia), Contemporary Arts Centre (Glasgow, UK), Centre for Dance and Performance Studies South Africa, Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (UK) 8
Ori Hiser BFA Costume, 2021 Ori completed a placement on the production of the feature film Three Thousand Years of Longing, written and directed by George Miller. The production design is by Roger Ford, and the costume design is by awardwinning NIDA alumna Kym Barrett, also costume designer for Matrix and Aquaman. ‘I learnt a lot about the difference between theatre and film. I learnt that there is so much more attention to detail on a film, for example the stitch length had to be exactly the same for consistency as it was highly visible – a three on some sections and a four on others – and the amount of rows had to be the same. I met a lot of good people and made a lot of great connections.’
Leia Loisa BFA Technical Theatre and Stage Management, 2021 Leia completed a three-week placement with Sydney Dance Company’s first season of 2021 Impermanence under their Stage Manager Simon Turner, mainly observing how the company operates during bump in, plotting, technical rehearsals and performances. Leia also helped setting-up the dressing rooms.
‘One of my highlights would be given the opportunity to do preshow calls to the company by the Stage Manager. I gave their hour calls, half hour calls, fifteen-minute calls, five-minute calls and beginners calls. I have been aiming and dreaming to work with the Sydney Dance Company since I was in first year, it felt surreal to be able to observe and experience how the company works from up close when back then you were an audience.’
Tess Healy BFA Costume, 2020 Tess completed her placement as costumier with the Australian Ballet as part of the production room team. ‘For my placement I worked under the cutters to create women and men’s dancewear pieces, including tutus and leotards. The biggest impact on me has been learning about collaboration. There is no one way of doing things.’
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Ghost Lights, Digital Theatre Festival 2020
PRODUCTIONS AND SHOWCASES Studying at NIDA means you’ll have many opportunities to be collaborative with peers in fully staged productions under the guidance of leading international and Australian directors, writers, choreographers and designers. These opportunities include: three annual Seasons of Student Productions, short films, musical theatre, cabaret, studio performances, writers’ readings, exhibitions, puppet shows, costume displays, props presentations and more.
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ARTICULATE Acting students deep dive into the world of voice dubbing and sound effects creation for film and TV.
SEASONS OF STUDENT PRODUCTIONS Learning on the floor, renowned directors come to NIDA to work with students of all disciplines on full scale productions.
TRIPLE J UNEARTHED MUSIC VIDEOS Directing and Design students collaborate with triple j Unearthed artists to create music videos.
MAKE-UP SHOWCASE A special audience immersive event showcasing stage and screen make-up, that’s presented to the public and industry guests.
MUSICAL THEATRE SHOWCASE
PERFORMANCE FILM PROJECTS
Musical Theatre students collaborate with all Diploma students in a production presented to producers and industry agents.
Stage and Screen Performance students collaborate with NIDA Directors and Writers to produce screen performances.
EXHIBITIONS Showcasing their work in a rare insight into what takes place behind the scenes: design, props, costumes, audio-visual work placed centre stage.
FESTIVAL OF EMERGING ARTISTS A series of daring new works by the next generation of directors and set, costume and technical designers.
MASTERWORK PRESENTATIONS Students in Costume, Props and Scenic Construction showcase an in-depth research project based on their own areas of interest.
PUPPET SHOW A dynamic performance opportunity in which Properties and Objects students become puppeteers and present their creations.
SCRIPTED SPACE
WRITERS’ READINGS
Exploring the intersection between story and scale models with Writing and Properties and Objects students collaborating.
Writing students present a collection of short readings of their new work to a public audience. 11
ALUMNI
NIDA alumni can be found working on and behind stages and screens all over the world. They are recognised, not only for their success on stage and behind the scenes, but also for their dedication to telling Australian stories.
Vivienne Awosoga, Acting Wentworth, Foxtel
Emily Adinolfi, Props & Objects Sydney Theatre Company
Rob Collins, Acting Cleverman, ABC
Fiona Crombie, Design The Favourite
Merindah Donnelly, Cultural Leadership BlakDance
Nyx Dorian Calder, Acting Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Yerin Ha, Acting Steven Spielberg’s Halo, Showtime
Mia Healey, Stage & Screen Performance The Wilds, Amazon Prime
Remy Hii, Acting Spiderman, Far From Home
Chika Ikogwe, Acting Fangirls, The Musical
Catherine Martin, Design The Great Gatsby
Deborah Riley, Design Game of Thrones, HBO
Shari Sebbens, Acting The Sapphires
Miranda Tapsell, Acting Top End Wedding
Lillian Hannah U, Technical Theatre & Stage Management Bangarra Dance
Gretel Vella, Writing for Performance The Great, Hulu
Sarah Snook, Acting Succession, HBO
Sophie Wilde, Acting Eden, Stan
Other acclaimed alumni include Cate Blanchett, Essie Davis, Judy Davis, Baz Luhrmann, Yael Stone, Sam Worthington and many more. Meet our alumni at nida.edu.au/alumni. 12
Keerthi Subramanyam, Design Darlinghurst Theatre Company
Michael Wilkinson, Design Aladdin
‘Challenge yourself and most importantly believe in yourself’ Shaka Cook, BFA Acting 2012 Playing Hercules Mulligan and James Madison in the Australian production of Hamilton
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PROPS WORKSHOPS
SCENIC CONSTRUCTION WORKSHOP
SPACE PLAYHOUSE
REG GRUNDY STUDIO
PARADE THEATRE
STUDIO THEATRE
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OUR CAMPUS
COSTUME WORKSHOPS
ATRIUM
REHEARSAL ROOMS
COSTUME RESEARCH COLLECTION NIDA has a Costume Research Collection of original garments in a temperature controlled environment, the oldest being from 1815, to those of the present day. These garments are used as a resource by our Design and Costume students to investigate construction techniques and the different qualities of fabric in period and contemporary garments.
THE LARGEST DEDICATED PERFORMING ARTS CAMPUS IN AUSTRALIA Based in Sydney (Kensington), NIDA’s campus is located across the road from the University of New South Wales, with light rail and bus routes outside the front door that bring you past Fox Studios and the Entertainment Quarter on your daily commute. The award-winning campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities including: → six performance venues including a 700-seat proscenium arch theatre → nine fully equipped rehearsal rooms → acoustic studios for voice work and sound recordings → design and lighting studios → construction, costume and props workshops → the Rodney Seaborn Library, which includes over 30,000 drama books and play scripts.
Click on the images to explore our campus 15
STUDENT LIFE
Life as a NIDA student is busy and vibrant. With students coming from diverse backgrounds across Australia and internationally, there are opportunities to learn and collaborate with each other while studying the course material – creating a space to develop extensive and long-lasting networks and friendships. As an institution, we are commited to be responsive, safe and supportive – consciously working to cultivate a culture that is open, accessible and inclusive. 16
HEALTH AND WELLBEING To create the best environment to thrive and achieve, we understand the need to actively promote the holistic health and wellbeing of our students throughout their learning experience. Training embeds demonstrations, information sessions and workshops on a broad range of health topics from mindfulness to fitness and injury prevention. There is dedicated counselling on site available to students as well as access to Counselling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at UNSW Sydney Monday–Friday and phone/online emergency counselling 24/7.
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS Through NIDA’s relationship with UNSW, NIDA students can apply for accommodation at the various on-campus residential communities. NIDA students often share rented accommodation in the area close to campus.
POLICIES To protect the welfare and safety of students, NIDA has a Student Charter and Code of Conduct in place, as well as policies on a range of student life issues, available at nida.edu.au/policies.
STUDENT COUNCIL OF NIDA (SCON) SCON is the student union to encourage collaboration and engagement throughout the student cohort and support your wellbeing. ‘Our aim at SCON is to promote the voice and interests of union members and the wider NIDA community and to promote friendship and respect for all students. We offer support for incoming students by organising orientationweek events as well as social events throughout the year that bring the student body together. Your student reps are democratically elected to represent and campaign for your interests within NIDA and in the broader community. We hold meetings with the Executive Team at NIDA and act as a conduit for discussion between students and NIDA staff, to help improve the student experience. Your cohort representatives are always here for a chat, so please don’t hesitate to contact any of us. We look forward to meeting you at NIDA.’ Grace Stamnas Second year BFA (Acting) student SCON President 2021
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TUITION FEES AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE All students, including domestic and international students, are required to pay tuition fees for any course at NIDA. Domestic students in the BFA and MFA courses can apply for FEE-HELP, an Australian Government loan scheme that assists eligible students in paying all or part of their tuition fees. To find out information and how to apply, visit the Australian Government’s website at studyassist.gov.au. NIDA is an approved VET Student Loans provider. Domestic students in the Vocational Diploma courses can apply for VET Student Loans, an Australian Government loan scheme that assists eligible students in paying part of their tuition fees. To find out information and how to apply, visit the Australian Government’s website at studyassist.gov.au/vet-student. For all other information about fees, contact us at info@nida.edu.au or call 02 9697 7600.
NEW – APPLICATION FEE WAIVED FOR 2022 APPLICATIONS NIDA strongly encourages applications from students from diverse backgrounds. This year, to give more people the opportunity to apply, there will be NO APPLICATION FEE for any 2022 fulltime NIDA course. The MFAs applications close on 31 August 2020, the BFAs and VETs applications close on 30 September 2021. NOTE: late applications may be considered where there are places available and will incur an administration fee of $75.
SCHOLARSHIPS NIDA Scholarships are open to future BFA and MFA students (applicants), and enrolled students. Most scholarships are allocated based on financial need. In 2021, approximately $300,000 worth of NIDA Scholarships, including Indigenous Scholarships, is available to assist enrolled students with living expenses and/or tuition fees. NIDA appreciates the generous support of its donors, trusts and foundations and bequests.
YouTube Scholarship Launched in 2021 in partnership with YouTube, this scholarship is awarded annually to a successful applicant to any of NIDA’s Bachelor of Fine Arts undergraduate courses who is from a background which has been historically underrepresented on screen and stage. We define this as: First Nations and/or People of Colour, people with a disability, applicants from remote and regional areas or experiencing other barriers to access.
ARA Scholarships
Three ARA Scholarships are available to Indigenous students already studying at NIDA in the BFA courses. This support contributes to enriching emerging Indigenous creative artists’ education and training.
Luminis Foundation Indigenous Fellowship for Cultural Leadership In its fourth year, the Luminis Foundation Indigenous Fellowship will support a successful First Nations applicant to the MFA (Cultural Leadership) course. Investing into the future of our industry, this course provides a platform for increased knowledge of the cultural sector from diverse perspectives and practitioners who are leading, or aspiring to lead, change in their sector. To read more on these scholarships and others on offer, head to nida.edu.au/scholarships.
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‘I would love to incorporate my Japanese and Mexican heritage into the making of traditional costumes. Being surrounded by all my creative like-minded peers at NIDA, and the support of my family, is what motivates me to keep pursuing my passions.’ Michiru Encinas, BFA Costume student Recipient of the 2021 YouTube Scholarship
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NIDA CAREER PATHWAYS Career pathway key Bachelor of Fine Art
Master of Fine Arts
Vocational Diplomas
A C D P S
CL De Di V W
L
Acting Costume Design for Performance Properties and Objects Scenic Construction and Technologies T Technical Theatre and Stage Management
ARTS/CULTURAL MANAGERS Arts and cultural advisor and advocate CL Arts and cultural consultant CL Artistic director D, De, Di, CL Community cultural programmer CL Creative producer CL Creative social innovator CL Cultural facilities manager CL Cultural policy and strategy expert CL Cultural researcher CL Curator CL Event director Di Executive director CL Production manager Di, CL Program manager Di, CL Resident/touring director Di, CL Theatre producer CL
COACHING
Movement coach A Vocal director V Voice coach V Voice teacher V Speech practitioner V
DESIGNERS/MAKERS Animator P Art department De, D, P Art fabrication P Art finisher De, D, C, P Art installer S, P Buyer – costume/props/sets De, D, C, P, S Concept model-maker P 20
Cultural Leadership Design for Performance* Directing Voice* Writing for Performance
Live Production and Technical Services CUA50420 MT Musical Theatre CUA50220 MS Screen and Media (Specialist Make-up Services) CUA51020 SS Stage and Screen Performance 10194NAT
*offered in 2023
Construction supervisor – stage/screen S Costume assistant or standby C Costume art finisher C Costume buyer C Costume curator De, D, C Costume cutter C Costume designer De, D Costume designer (interactive technology) De, D Costume finisher C Costume maker C Costume researcher De, D, C Costume standby De, D, C Costume supervisor C Design assistant/associate De, D Design educator in the arts De, D Designer De, D Digital fabrication P Draftsperson De, D, P, T Event designer De, D Exhibition display P Footwear designer De, D Footwear maker C Hair stylist MS Headwear designer De, D, C Headwear maker C Game designer De, D Installation designer De, D Installation manager De, D, P Illustrator (costume) De, D Illustrator (pre-visualisation) De, D Lighting designer De, D, T Make-up artist MS Milliner C
Model maker De, D, P Mould maker P Practical effects maker P Production designer De, D Properties designer De, D Properties maker P Properties standby P Prosthetics maker MS Puppet maker P Scenic artist P Sculptor P Set builder S Set decorator/dresser De, D, P Set designer De, D Set director De, D, S Special effects artist P Special effects designer S Special effects make-up artist MS Special effects make-up designer MS Speciality props P Speciality costume C Stagehand stage/screen S, L Storyboard artist De, D Systems integrator S Technical designer S Theatre maker T Theatrical tailor C 3D modeller P 3D fabrication P 3D sculptor P Video content designer De, D Video for live performance designer T Wardrobe manager C Wig maker MS Workshop manager C, P, S
DIRECTORS AND WRITERS Artistic director De, Di, CL, D Director in digital (video, game design) Di Director – stage and screen Di Dramaturg W Event director Di Immersive theatre director Di Immersive theatre writer W Opera director Di Performance director Di Playwright W Resident/touring director Di, CL Screenwriter W TV director Di Writer in performance genres (radio, video game and digital media) W Writer for audiobooks W Writer for stage and screen W, SS
PERFORMERS Actors – musical theatre A, MT Actors – screen A, SS Actors – stage A, MT, SS Cabaret performer A, MT Dancer MT Motion capture artist A, SS Musical theatre performer MT Opera performer A, MT Performer – stage/screen A, MT, SS Presenter A, MT, SS Singer MT Singing actor A, MT
Social media influencer A, SS, MS Voice artist A, SS Voice over actor A, SS
TECHNICAL PRACTITIONERS AND MANAGERS Assistant stage manager T Automation operator T Automation technician S Backstage crew member T, L Draftsperson De, D, P, T Events manager T Foley artist (sounds for film, video, and other media) T, L Lighting designer De, D, T Lighting operator T, L Lighting programmer T, L Lighting technician T, L Mechanist S Project manager P, T Production manager T Sound designer T Sound operator T, L Sound recordist T Stage manager T Staging technician S, T, L Technical director T Technical manager S, T Theatrical technician T, L Video programmer T Vision systems operator T, L
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BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS ACTING ‘The routine at NIDA is incredible. You’re basically acting every day of the week for 3 years. It’s like playing the scales. You come out into the industry having the foundational technique there and the confidence to tackle those difficult pieces whether it be selftaping, on set, on the stage, you name it!’ Alan Zhu, BFA Acting 2021
APPLY FOR ONE OF TWO STREAMS:
→ The Actor → The Singing Actor CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Actor for stage (theatre), screen (film, TV, online) and music entertainment (music theatre, cabaret, musicals) DURATION
3 years MODE
Full-time, on campus Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm Some evenings and weekends 22
PLAY COURSE VIDEO
A course that invites you to bring your curiosity for and creativity with storytelling into a space dedicated to championing your best artistic self. Building an exceptional ensemble, we encourage your creativity to flourish safely, while you work with diverse cohorts in Directing, Technical and Writing streams, emulating the collaborative nature of working in the industry. We believe there is no ‘one way’ to act, we also believe that each actor is unique . As you progress through the course, you will collect a versatile toolkit of skills and techniques to enhance your craft for theatre, musical theatre, film, multimedia and television. Working across cannons and disciplines with inspirational staff and prominent guest artists with contemporary knowledge, this course is a robust environment to learn and experiment in professional theatres and facilities while working on fully-supported productions presented to the public and the industry. By the end of your training you will showcase your skills to industry representatives and enter the workplace as a flexible, adaptive, future facing artist capable of the highest level of artistic expression and ready for a confident life-long career.
OUR ACTING GRADUATES Our Acting alumni include many of the most recognised actors around the world, including two-time Academy Awards winner Cate Blanchett, Academy Awards nominee Judy Davis, Remy Hii, Richard Roxburgh, Sarah Snook, Miranda Tapsell and Sam Worthington
COURSE STRUCTURE AND FEES Visit nida.edu.au/acting
HOW TO APPLY Via audition, see p. 48 Applications open 1 June–30 September 2021 Visit apply.nida.edu.au
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS See p. 51
FEE-HELP Available – see p. 18 and check your eligibility at studyassist.gov.au
CRICOS CODE 083696J 23
BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS COSTUME ‘The biggest impact on me has been collaboration. The learning process is never ending, and we are lucky to be in a wonderful industry in which we keep learning and growing all the time.’ Tess Healy, BFA Costume 2020 Costumier at The Australian Ballet
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Costume supervisor, TV costume coordinator, costume maker, costume cutter, costume assistant or standby, theatrical tailor, buyer, stylist, costume art finisher, milliner, wardrobe manager DURATION
3 years MODE
Full-time, on campus Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm Some evenings and weekends 24
PLAY COURSE VIDEO
This course will equip you to become professional costume makers and managers in the theatre, film, TV and entertainment industries. With worldclass facilities and a wealth of diverse presentation opportunities, you will not only gain a solid theoretical understanding of traditional and digital skills in costume making, but priceless opportunities to collaborate on full scale productions – from brief to execution. Working in intimate, dedicated classes of six students, you’ll practise and develop skills in costume cutting (pattern making), fitting and construction, fabric dyeing, art finishing, fabrication, corsetry, leatherwork, tailoring and headwear. Your knowledge is further deepened with teaching from industry professionals with diverse historical and cultural practices that will strengthen your understanding of the traditions, value and knowledge carried within various costumes and making processes. By third year you’ll take responsibility for a team as a costume supervisor on a Student Production. This includes budget management and collaborating with actors, stage managers and costume designers. To complete your degree, you’ll take your skills on a placement with leading theatre, opera and dance companies and major film and television studios. Collaborating with leading guests and specialists in opera, theatre and film costume in Australia and the world, also provides a unique network development opportunity for our graduates, supporting your tradition into the industry. You will graduate with a robust skillset, valuable industry connections and confidence about your future.
OUR COSTUME GRADUATES
Our graduates are employed by Opera Australia, The Australian Ballet, Sydney Theatre Company, Cosprop (London), Bangarra Dance Theatre, Ensemble Theatre and have worked in live theatre productions such as Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Frozen, on movies such as Aquaman, Peter Rabbit, Three Thousand Years of Longing, Mad Max series’ Furiosa, Bazmark Films’ Elvis, and TV shows such as Dancing with the Stars.
COURSE STRUCTURE AND FEES
Visit nida.edu.au/costume
HOW TO APPLY
Via audition, see p. 48 Applications open 1 June–30 September 2021 Visit apply.nida.edu.au
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
See p. 51
FEE-HELP
Available – see p. 18 and check your eligibility at studyassist.gov.au
CRICOS CODE
083698G
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BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS DESIGN FOR PERFORMANCE ‘When I discovered the design course at NIDA, I found a profession that incorporated all the creative arts and visual languages I loved. Production design for film, television and theatre is about building a world, so drawing, photography, model-making – all the different forms of imagination and expression I love merge together now in my practice.’ Ruru Zhu, BFA Design for Performance 2021
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Designer of set, production, costume, lighting, video and properties, art director or design educator in the arts, entertainment and creative industries, including traditional performance (film, TV, theatre, opera, dance), digital (film, screen, video, game design), immersive theatre and events DURATION
3 years MODE
Full-time, on campus Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm Some evenings and weekends 26
PLAY COURSE VIDEO
This immersive course focuses on both stage and screen design. In a practice-based learning environment, you will learn to create sets, costumes, props and lighting for live performance and film productions. With small groups and high levels of individual tuition you will develop your design skills with a spirit of intellectual inquiry in professional student studios, theatres and workshops. This course will equip you with technical skills such as rendering, virtual visualisation techniques, manual drafting, computer-aided drafting, drawing and pre-visualisation. You will extend your creative tool-kit by investigating the social, historical and cultural contexts of contemporary performance, design, architecture, fashion and art. This is supported by industry experts across stage and screen that will guide you through your own work, and provide a range of lenses to approach work. Throughout your degree, you will take your skills from the studio all the way to a final completed work, within collaborative teams. You will create designs for live productions, short films, music videos, devised works, installations and industry collaborations. In your final year, you will be placed with a design professional and professional arts company. You will leave NIDA with a robust skillset, valuable industry connections and confidence about your future in stage and screen design.
OUR DESIGN GRADUATES
Our graduates win awards, including numerous Academy Awards, BAFTA Awards, AACTA Awards, APDG Awards, Green Room and Sydney Theatre Awards. They have designed for Cirque du Soleil, Bangarra Dance Theatre, feature films from international studios including Aladdin, The Amazing Spider Man, The Matrix, Romeo + Juliet, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 and 2, Watchmen, 300, Garden State, The Favourite, Game of Thrones, The Great Gatsby, Moulin Rouge!, True History of the Kelly Gang, 21 Grams, numerous Olympic Games and more
COURSE STRUCTURE AND FEES
Visit nida.edu.au/design
HOW TO APPLY
Via interview and portfolio, see p. 48 Applications open 1 June–30 September 2021 Visit apply.nida.edu.au
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
See p. 51
FEE-HELP
Available – see p. 18 and check your eligibility at studyassist. gov.au
CRICOS CODE
083699F
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BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS PROPERTIES AND OBJECTS ‘I love making fantastical artworks that evoke a visceral reaction from the audience. I like for my art to be able to send a message or aid in the creation of a story.’ Gaia Stein, current BFA Properties and Objects student
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Properties designer-maker, scenic artist, set decorator, animator, puppet-maker, modelmaker, digital fabricator, special effect artist, draftsperson, 3D modeler, project manager, properties workshop manager, freelance artist DURATION
3 years MODE
Full-time, on campus Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm Some evenings and weekends 28
PLAY COURSE VIDEO
Students will become versatile props and objects designer-makers, ready to join the arts and entertainment industries including film, theatre, live shows from opera to theatre artistic performances, music videos, fashion shows, shop windows, advertisement and television to name a few. Working in small, focused cohorts and through practical projects, you will develop your creative, making and problem-solving skills. Your learning will be grounded in a holistic understanding of cultural traditions and diverse modes of storytelling, equipping you with a widened perspective that will inform their work. You will be introduced to techniques such as drawing, drafting, sculpting, metal work, wood work, leather work, mould-making and casting, weaving, pattern making, scenic art and model making, as well as contemporary skills in digital design and fabrication such as digital graphics, 3D modelling, 3D sculpting, 3D rendering, 3D printing, laser cutting and CNC machines. As you progress, you will apply your knowledge to projects that involve sculpture, furniture making, set dressing, costume props, costume jewellery, architectural models, short films, electronics, practical effects, prosthetics and puppetry, taking your learnings from the studio onto the set. In your final year, you will initiate, develop and construct your own masterwork project. Collaborating with other course students and industry guests, you will also manage the production and outsourcing of properties, objects and practical effects required for Student Productions. To finalise your studies you will engage with an industry-leading performing and entertainment art company, including major theatre companies, film production companies, TV channels and public festivals. You will leave NIDA with a robust skillset, practical experiences, valuable industry connections and confidence about your professional future.
OUR PROPERTIES AND OBJECTS GRADUATES Our graduates have been employed by Cirque du Soleil, Creature Technology Company, Weta Workshops, Aardman Animation, Sydney Theatre Company, Opera Australia, Fox Studios and Dan Oliver Special Effect to mention a few.
COURSE STRUCTURE AND FEES Visit nida.edu.au/properties-and-objects
HOW TO APPLY Via interview and project, see p. 48 Applications open 1 June–30 September 2021 Visit apply.nida.edu.au
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS See p. 51
FEE-HELP Available – see p. 18 and check your eligibility at studyassist. gov.au
CRICOS CODE 083697G 29
BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS SCENIC CONSTRUCTION & TECHNOLOGIES ‘NIDA helped me gain the knowledge and confidence I needed to pursue my craft. I wouldn’t have discovered my passion for aerial rigging as early as I did without studying staging and having the support of the tutors in fostering my interests was second to none.’ Grace Llanwarne, BFA Scenic Construction and Technologies, 2019 Mech/auto swing on Magic Mike Live
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Staging technician, set builder, mechanist, technical manager, technical designer, art installer, special effects designer, systems integrator, automation technician DURATION
3 years MODE
Full-time, on campus Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm Some evenings and weekends 30
PLAY COURSE VIDEO
Providing an unparalleled learning opportunity in Australia, and as one of only a few available worldwide, this course provides unique practical and immersive teaching and learning methods to equip you with the skills to construct performance environments in opera, theatre, film and live events. Working in small groups in the NIDA scenic construction workshop, you will learn how to create the worlds of performance alongside designers and industry professionals. You will learn stage engineering, stage rigging and automation, risk and project management. You will also develop theoretical knowledge about theatre, arts and culture. During your first year, you will study timber and metal fabrication, rigging, mechanics, drafting, computer-aided design and stage machinery. In your second year, you will design and realise your own projects for specific staging challenges, including automation such as revolving stages. During your final and third year, you will work as a construction manager or technical manager on fully staged professional productions with guest artists at the top of their game, to be presented to industry professionals. To complete your degree, you’ll take your skills on a placement with some of the leading production companies either in Australia or internationally. You will leave NIDA with a robust skillset, valuable industry connections and confidence about your future in live events, theatre and film.
OUR SCENIC CONSTRUCTION AND TECHNOLOGIES GRADUATES Our graduates have been employed by Disney Studios, Opera Australia, Sydney Theatre Company, Stagekings Australia, ASAP London, Henn Projekt Germany, Simple Motion, The Australian Ballet, MnR Constructions and more.
COURSE STRUCTURE AND FEES Visit nida.edu.au/scenic-construction
HOW TO APPLY Via interview and project, see p. 48 Applications open 1 June–30 September 2021 Visit apply.nida.edu.au
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS See p. 51
FEE-HELP Available – see p. 18 and check your eligibility at studyassist.gov.au
CRICOS CODE 083700G 31
BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS TECHNICAL THEATRE & STAGE MANAGEMENT ‘Theatre gives you the chance to create magic... I want to spend my life in the behindthe-scenes magic of the stage.’ Grace Sackman, current Technical Theatre and Stage Management student
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Theatre-maker, production manager, technical manager, stage manager, event manager, lighting designer, sound designer, video for live performance designer, theatrical technician DURATION
3 years MODE
Full-time, on campus Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm Some evenings and weekends 32
PLAY COURSE VIDEO
With a high employment outcome, this immersive practicebased course will guide you on your journey to being a successful and adept technical theatre and stage management artist and practitioner. You will learn to manage and integrate the technical requirements for theatre, live events, musicals, opera and concerts. You will graduate equipped with the broad range of experience and knowledge required for a leadership role in the industry with an understanding of your role within the creative collaboration process. You will learn the theory and practice of stage management, production management, lighting, sound, technical drawing and video for live performance, working in small groups with industrystandard equipment. You will acquire a high level of practical, hands-on experience as a stage manager, technical manager, technical designer and crew in live productions during the annual Student Productions seasons. In your final year, you will do industry placements with major theatre companies, opera companies, musicals, dance companies, arts festivals and leading arts practitioners in Australia and overseas to gain real world experience, which will lead you to a sustainable career in the arts as a highly soughtafter technical theatre and stage management practitioner.
OUR TECHNICAL THEATRE AND STAGE MANAGEMENT GRADUATES Our recent graduates have been employed by Sydney Theatre Company, Sydney Opera House, Sydney Dance Company, Bangarra Dance Theatre, Melbourne Theatre Company, The Australian Ballet, Cirque du Soleil, Abbey Theatre (Dublin), Sydney Festival, Adelaide Festival, Michael Cassell Group, RGM Productions (London), Gordon Frost Organisation, Disney Theatrical Group, PRG Scenic Technology (USA) and more.
COURSE STRUCTURE AND FEES Visit nida.edu.au/technical-theatre
HOW TO APPLY
Via interview and project, see p. 48 Applications open 1 June–30 September 2021 Visit apply.nida.edu.au
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS See p. 51
FEE-HELP Available – see p. 18 and check your eligibility at studyassist.gov.au
CRICOS CODE 083701F 33
MASTER OF FINE ARTS CULTURAL LEADERSHIP ‘What is extraordinary about NIDA’s Cultural Leadership course material is that it can be adapted to your field, making everything you learn relevant. The information exchanged by peers from all over Australia in a variety of practices is just the cherry on top.’ Mel George, MFA Cultural Leadership, 2019 Manager, Ernabella Arts, Central Australia Recipient of the Luminis Foundation, Indigenous Fellowship for Cultural Leadership
Cultural Leadership alumna Libby Lincoln launching City of Gold Coast Music Action Plan, March 2019. Image by City of Gold Coast
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
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Executive director, general manager, creative social innovator, theatre director, creative producer, interdisciplinary artist, community cultural programmer, company manager, cultural facilities manager, artistic director, theatre-maker, cultural researcher, arts and cultural consultant, curator, cultural policy and strategy expert, arts and cultural advisor and advocate DURATION
30 months MODE
Part-time, on campus intensive blocks in Sydney and online
PLAY COURSE VIDEO
This course challenges you to question and debate the role of the cultural sector in our society and your own place within it. It is designed specifically for those who already have active roles in the cultural sector who aspire to facilitate resilient, new leadership models. Through part-time online learning and face-to-face intensives at NIDA in Sydney, you will be encouraged to exchange and collaborate in innovative approaches to creative and professional practice. Topics covered include governance, cultural policy, change management, communication, advocacy, cultural transformation, sustainability, and research generated through practice. Throughout the course you will develop into a future focused arts leader. You will be taught by experienced cultural leaders in the arts industry and supported by senior NIDA academics. The course includes the opportunity to undertake an international case study to enhance your networks and put your knowledge into practice. Given the ongoing impact of the COVID pandemic on international travel, this subject offers options for undertaking an internationally-focused cultural leadership research project without requiring international travel.
OUR CULTURAL LEADERSHIP GRADUATES Our graduates are actively engaged in a wide range of contexts including arts festivals, performing arts companies, local government and arts funding bodies, libraries, performing arts venues, independent artists and producers, museums and galleries, creative industries and cultural service organisations.
COURSE STRUCTURE AND FEES
Visit nida.edu.au/cultural-leadership
HOW TO APPLY
Via written application and interview, see p. 48 Applications open 1 June–31 August 2021 Visit apply.nida.edu.au
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Undergraduate degree or at least five years of documented professional experience in the arts, cultural, creative or other relevant sector/s, including evidence of sector leadership experience, see p. 53
FEE-HELP
Available – see p. 18 and check your eligibility at studyassist.gov.au
CRICOS CODE
086128F
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MASTER OF FINE ARTS DIRECTING ‘The directing course provided me with the tools, vocabulary, and confidence to create in a way that feels authentic and vital to me as a storyteller. By collaborating with a range of creatives on many different projects throughout the year, I was able to expand my worldview of theatre, create lasting professional connections, and discover my unique directorial style.’ Miranda Middleton, MFA Directing 2020 Step Up Associate Artist at bAKEHOUSE Theatre Company
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Theatre director, opera director, film director, TV director, performance director, event director, director in digital (video, game design), immersive theatre director DURATION
15 months MODE
Full-time, on campus in Sydney Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm Some evenings and weekends 36
PLAY COURSE VIDEO
We have been training talented, versatile and visionary artists to master the directing process for nearly 50 years. The impact of our training comes from the rigorous studio-based learning and by nurturing each individual’s unique directorial voice. You will be challenged to create and express your artistic vision for the future of our arts and entertainment industries and connect with contemporary audiences. Your learning will be embedded in real-world collaborative projects that span classical and contemporary theatre, screen, opera, musicals, devised performance and event-based directing. Your projects are developed and mentored alongside leading Australian and international industry guests. You will be given opportunities to engage with actors, designers, production companies, performing arts centres and festivals, nationally and internationally if travel is possible. Examples of field trips include Adelaide Festival, Perth Festival, Theatertreffen Festival Berlin and the National Aboriginal Islander Skills Development Association (NAISDA Dance College). As your final project, you will develop, cast and direct a short production or screenwork of your choice in a season at NIDA Theatres. As well as the general public, Artistic Directors and other industry professionals are invited to your graduation production. You will leave NIDA with an advanced approach to collaboration and leadership, a comprehensive process as a director and will have forged industry connections to activate your career.
OUR DIRECTING GRADUATES
Our graduates win awards, including several AFI Awards, Australian and International Film Festival Awards, Sydney Film Critics Awards, Directors Guild Awards, the Prix Italia Award for Directing, Helpmann Awards, Sydney Theatre Awards. Our graduates have been employed by Sydney Theatre Company, Belvoir, Melbourne Theatre Company, Opera Australia, Schaubühne Berlin, Royal Court Theatre (London), La Boite Theatre Company, Bazmark (Baz Luhrmann) Films, Warner Brothers Entertainment and more.
COURSE STRUCTURE AND FEES
Visit nida.edu.au/directing
HOW TO APPLY
Via interview and audition, see p. 48 Applications open 1 June–31 August 2021 Visit apply.nida.edu.au
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Undergraduate degree or five years of professional experience in an area relevant to directing, see p. 53
FEE-HELP
Available – see p. 18 and check your eligibility at studyassist.gov.au
CRICOS CODE 080368E
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MASTER OF FINE ARTS WRITING FOR PERFORMANCE ‘I can write, but I’ve never learned how to best put my voice on the page. I needed some guidance and NIDA was, to me, the best opportunity to showcase my voice.’ Douglas Hackett, Current MFA Writing for Performance student
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Playwright, screenwriter, scriptwriter, writer in performance genres such as radio, video game and digital media, immersive theatre DURATION
15 months MODE
Full-time, on campus in Sydney Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm Some evenings and weekends 38
PLAY COURSE VIDEO
You have already decided to call yourself a writer and see writing for performance as your primary calling. In this course, while a wide variety of craft skills are taught and practiced, the real focus is on critical thinking and arming you with the techniques to access and unleash your creativity, as well as developing the skills to promote and produce your own work, making it unique in Australia and internationally. You will work in fields as diverse as film, gaming, digital media, theatre, television and online series, while developing and researching your major work, a complete full-length work of creative writing. Directing actors in a rehearsed reading, you will present excerpts of your work to a public audience at NIDA. Throughout the course, you will engage directly with theatre companies, TV networks and festivals. You will immerse yourself in the craft of writing, developing your global awareness through national and international learning experiences, if travel is possible, such as live theatre and festivals, screen media and online arts and drama programs. This often includes the Sydney Festival, the Adelaide Festival and Fringe Festival, Dark Mofo, the National Aboriginal Islander Skills Development Association (NAISDA Dance College), as well as the Edinburgh Festival and the London theatre scene.
OUR WRITING GRADUATES
Our award-winning graduates have been employed as playwrights and as writers for theatre, film, TV, radio and digital media. Some work include: A Sunburnt Christmas (Stan), The Great (on Hulu/Paramount), All My Friends Are Racist (ABC iview) As writing for performance is normally a freelance occupation, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to access and navigate a rapidly changing landscape of contemporary textual practices.
COURSE STRUCTURE AND FEES
Visit nida.edu.au/writing
HOW TO APPLY
Via interview and written work, see p. 48 Applications open 1 June–31 August 2021 Visit apply.nida.edu.au
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Undergraduate degree and a demonstrated commitment to original writing, see p. 53
FEE-HELP
Available – see p. 18 and check your eligibility at studyassist.gov.au
CRICOS CODE 080371K 39
MASTER OF FINE ARTS DESIGN FOR PERFORMANCE OFFERED IN 2023
This course is not on offer in 2022, to register an expression of interest for 2023 please email applications@nida.edu.au
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Designer of set, production, costume, lighting, video and properties, art director or design educator in the arts, entertainment and creative industries, including traditional performance (film, TV, theatre, opera, dance), digital (film, screen, video, game design), immersive theatre and events
40
PLAY COURSE VIDEO
This immersive course focuses on both stage and screen design. This is for a designer interested in broadening their artistic, theoretical and technical understanding of scenography, mise-en-scène, and all aspects of design for performance in stage and screen. It is particularly suitable if you have experience or qualifications in performing arts, screen, architecture, visual arts, fashion, lighting, interiors, technical theatre, or backgrounds creation. You will build your practice through a high level of individual tuition, a uniquely intense mentorship program and technical support. Choose one or two specialisations in set design, production design, costume design, lighting and/or video design. You will access studio spaces, fully equipped theatres and workshops to realise your stage and screen projects. As a key member of a creative team, you will learn how to make meaningful, well informed design choices, and gain the creative and practical skills to develop and realise them. For your major project, you will collaborate intensely with professional and student directors, writers and performers to create a fully staged production in NIDA Theatres. Throughout your course, you will foster your own individual artistic identity, practice and goals. In your final semester, you will have the chance to do professional placements at prestigious arts organisations. Previous students have undertaken placements with the English National Opera, The National Theatre UK, Alexander Dodge Design NY, and Music Hall Belgium, or placed with international designers, including NIDA alumni around the world.
OUR DESIGN GRADUATES Our graduates win awards, including numerous Academy Awards, BAFTA Awards, AACTA Awards, APDG Awards, Green Room and Sydney Theatre Awards. They have designed for Cirque du Soleil, Bangarra Dance Theatre, feature films from international studios including movies such as The Amazing Spider Man, The Matrix, Romeo + Juliet, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 and 2, Watchmen, 300, Garden State, The Favourite, Game of Thrones, The Great Gatsby, Moulin Rouge!, True History of the Kelly Gang, 21 Grams, numerous Olympic Games and more.
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MASTER OF FINE ARTS VOICE OFFERED IN 2023
This course is not on offer in 2022, to register an expression of interest for 2023 please email applications@nida.edu.au
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Teaching and coaching actors, working in film, TV, theatre, other performing arts and broadcast media or in the corporate world as voice coach, vocal director, presenter and voice or speech practitioner
42
PLAY COURSE VIDEO
This is a course for those who wish to follow or develop their professional career in voice teaching and vocal training. It is ideal for actors, directors, drama teachers, singers and speech therapists/ pathologists. Your learning will be centered on embodied knowledge – learning through ‘doing’ – and a critical reflection on that experience. In small groups, you will engage in specialised study and practice in voice, speech and text. You will be empowered to develop your own artistic vision, as well as your capacity for leadership within the cultural, performance and academic communities. The course uses methods developed by leading international specialists such as Cicely Berry, Barbara Houseman, Arthur Lessac and Frankie Armstrong, among others. Throughout your course, you will foster and develop your cultural, individual and artistic voice through practice and critical thinking. In your final assignment, you will experience a four-week placement at a prestigious institutions nationally or internationally if travel is possible. Previous international placements include Toi Whakaari, University of Pretoria, Yale University, Carnegie Mellon University, Rose Bruford College of Theatre and Performance, Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, and the University of California Long Beach. These placements will give you the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in teaching practice, forge industry connections and solidify future pathways.
OUR VOICE GRADUATES
Our graduates have been employed as Lecturer in Acting at Charles Sturt University, Head of Voice at Sydney Theatre School, and Voice Tutors on the NIDA BFA (Acting) course and LASALLE College of the Arts, Singapore.
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CUA50420 DIPLOMA OF LIVE PRODUCTION AND TECHNICAL SERVICES This course is an intensive year of practical study that equips you with the skills and knowledge to set up and take down equipment, sets and other staging elements related to live events and productions. You will also learn how to set up and operate lighting, audio and vision systems. Your tutors are practising professionals from the entertainment arts industry. The course is supported by Opera Australia and Foundation Theatres and includes site visits to a range of Sydney venues including Sydney Theatre Company, Sydney Opera House and Sydney Lyric Theatre. Classes are practical, providing you with a hands-on approach to learning. Throughout the course, you will apply your skills to live performance and film projects, collaborating with students from other creative disciplines across NIDA. As a key part of the course, you will also undertake an industry placement, enabling you to develop networks and pursue an area of specialisation.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Backstage crew member, sound operator, lighting operator, vision systems operator
DURATION
1 year
MODE
Full-time, on campus
HOW TO APPLY
Via interview, see p. 54 Applications open 1 June–30 September 2021 Visit apply.nida.edu.au
COURSE STRUCTURE AND FEES
Visit nida.edu.au/live-production
VET STUDENT LOANS
Available – see p. 18 and check your eligibility at studyassist.gov.au/vet-student
RTO CODE
90349 44
PLAY COURSE VIDEO
CUA50220 DIPLOMA OF MUSICAL THEATRE
This course is an intensive year of practical study that trains you to become a ‘triple threat’: singer, dancer and actor. Providing the rigour and skill required to get a foothold in musical theatre, the course is industry driven. You will learn from practising professionals and leading tutors from the entertainment arts industry. You will be trained to respond creatively to scripts and songs, collaborate effectively with other performers and make informed decisions about character interpretation. Training is practical, with an even distribution of classes in each of the disciplines of singing, dancing and acting. You will train in ensemble and solo singing in a range of musical theatre repertoire, acting technique for both spoken and sung dialogue, and in ensemble and individual dance in a variety of styles. At the end of the course, you will present a live showcase of your work in one of the NIDA Theatres attended by entertainment industry practitioners, producers and agents.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Musical theatre performer, singer, dancer, actor, cabaret performer
DURATION
1 year
MODE
Full-time, on campus
HOW TO APPLY
Via audition and interview, see p. 54 Applications open 1 June–30 September 2021 Visit apply.nida.edu.au
COURSE STRUCTURE AND FEES
Visit nida.edu.au/musical-theatre
VET STUDENT LOANS
Available – see p. 18 and check your eligibility at studyassist.gov.au/vet-student
RTO CODE
PLAY COURSE VIDEO
90349
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CUA51020 DIPLOMA OF SCREEN AND MEDIA (SPECIALIST MAKE-UP SERVICES) This practical and intensive year of study provides you with the skills and knowledge to design and apply make-up, style hair, create wigs and design and make special effects and prosthetics. The tutors are all current practising professionals from the entertainment arts industry. The course is supported by Pinchgut Opera and includes site visits to Opera Australia and City Recital Hall. You will have opportunities to apply your skills on live performance or film projects. The course includes placement on a NIDA Student Production which is at the heart of NIDA’s calendar year. This gives you the opportunity to work with NIDA tutors and industry guests, and to collaborate with other NIDA students. At the end of the course, you will present a live and filmed showcase of your work in one of the NIDA Theatres attended by entertainment industry practitioners, producers and agents.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Make-up artist, hair stylist, wig maker, special effects and prosthetics make-up artist
DURATION
1 year
MODE
Full-time, on campus
HOW TO APPLY
Via interview, see p. 54 Applications open 1 June–30 September 2021 Visit apply.nida.edu.au
COURSE STRUCTURE AND FEES
Visit nida.edu.au/make-up
VET STUDENT LOANS
Available – see p. 18 and check your eligibility at studyassist.gov.au/vet-student
RTO CODE
90349 46
PLAY COURSE VIDEO
10194NAT DIPLOMA OF STAGE AND SCREEN PERFORMANCE This year-long intensive and practical course puts you centre stage and in front of the camera, giving you the tools to develop and perform your own stories for stage and screen. During the course you will learn how to collaborate with others to develop and create original works for various media. Training includes classes in acting for stage and screen, audition technique and screen testing. The course also provides masterclasses with industry guests. You will learn about the multiplicity of roles, technologies and methodologies that exist within the theatre, film, TV and the digital industries. You will be taught by NIDA staff and leading tutors from the industry. At the end of the course, you will present a live and filmed showcase of your work in one of the NIDA Theatres attended by entertainment industry practitioners, producers and agents.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Performer and creator for stage and screen
DURATION
1 year
MODE
Full-time, on campus
HOW TO APPLY
Via interview, see p. 54 Applications open 1 June–30 September 2021 Visit apply.nida.edu.au
COURSE STRUCTURE AND FEES
Visit nida.edu.au/stage-and-screen
VET STUDENT LOANS
Available – see p. 18 and check your eligibility at studyassist.gov.au/vet-student
RTO CODE
PLAY COURSE VIDEO
90349
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READY TO APPLY? We are keen to hear from passionate and courageous individuals who want to create stories across stages, screens and beyond. NIDA strongly encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, and individuals from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences.
APPLICANTS SEEKING ADMISSION MUST: → Have reached the age of 18 before the commencement of the course (in exceptional circumstances this may be waived). → For BFA: hold a Higher School Certificate or its equivalent from any state or territory in Australia or overseas (in exceptional circumstances this may be waived); ATAR is not required. → For MFA: have an undergraduate degree or at least five years of professional experience in a relevant area. → Be fluent in spoken English and proficient in written English. International students need 8.0 IELTS (Academic) or equivalent for MFA courses and BFA Acting, and 7.0 IELTS (Academic) or equivalent for all other BFA courses. → Complete the audition or requirements for their chosen course (please refer to apply.nida.edu.au from 1 June 2021 for full details). 48
ROUND 1 1. CHOOSE A COURSE Visit apply.nida.edu.au for detailed and up-to-date information about the courses on offer, selection criteria for each course, and NIDA official events, talks and demonstrations.
2. SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION Applications must be submitted directly to NIDA via apply.nida.edu.au. Follow the prompts on the application page and make sure you include all supporting documentation. This year, to give more people the opportunity to apply, there will be NO APPLICATION FEE for any 2022 full-time NIDA course. Applications open 1 June 2021. The MFAs applications close on 31 August 2020, the BFAs and VETs applications close on 30 September 2021. NOTE: late applications may be considered where there are places available and will incur an administration fee of $75. Applicants will be notified whether they will be required for an audition or interview.
ROUND 2 3. PREPARE FOR YOUR AUDITION/INTERVIEW If you are successful in the first round you will be invited for an interview or recalled for an audition. Full audition and interview requirements are available at apply.nida.edu.au.
4. UNDERTAKE YOUR AUDITION/INTERVIEW All interviews and recalls for non-Acting BFA courses will be held face to face or online via Zoom. Depending on COVID-19 restrictions, recalls for Acting will be held either in most Australian capital cities or online via Zoom.
5. RECEIVE AN OFFER If you are successful and NIDA offers you a place on the course you will be advised by telephone and in writing of your study offer.
APPLICATION SUPPORT We’re here to help you – for any questions related to your applications contact us at: applications@nida.edu.au
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APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS
50
ACTING
Your audition video should include two monologues:
COSTUME DESIGN FOR PERFORMANCE PROPERTIES AND OBJECTS SCENIC CONSTRUCTION AND TECHNOLOGIES TECHNICAL THEATRE AND STAGE MANAGEMENT
→ Heightened text and language (e.g. Kae Tempest, Ntozake Shange and William Shakespeare) → Modern or contemporary: one short monologue from a modern or contemporary play (Australian or International).
All applicants are invited to submit an online application at apply.nida.edu.au and must prepare a portfolio of their work, and/or an artist’s statement and submit this in a digital format.
AUDITION PROCESS All applicants are invited to submit an online application at apply.nida.edu.au. The Actor or The Singing Actor Applicants to both The Actor and The Singing Actor streams undertake a first round audition via video.
If successful, you will be invited to attend a face-to-face recall where COVID restrictions allow, you may be asked to participate in a practical workshop to assess your vocal, physical and performance skills. If COVID restricts travel then you may be recalled via Zoom session.
PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
Specific portfolio details will be available at apply.nida.edu.au from 1 June 2021. If you are successful in the first round, you will be invited to attend a face-to-face or online interview via Zoom and to complete the online written response or the creative project.
This will involve preparing the following: The Actor → A third audition monologue which may be contemporary or classical. Be prepared to work on a scene (supplied) with a scene partner. The Singing Actor → Two songs (from the list provided). Be prepared to explore some choreography. If you are unsuccessful in gaining a place on the Singing Actor stream, NIDA may offer you a place on the Actor stream. Application requirements are subject to change. Full details of the 2021 process will be available at apply.nida.edu.au from 1 June 2021.
INTERVIEW PROCESS The interview includes a brief introduction to NIDA and the course, followed by a discussion about your portfolio, your ideas about arts and entertainment industries including theatre, film, TV, exhibitions and events and why you want to study at NIDA. There will be an opportunity for you to ask any questions. Application requirements are subject to change. Full details of the 2021 process will be available at apply.nida.edu.au from 1 June 2021.
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APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS MASTER OF FINE ARTS
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CULTURAL LEADERSHIP SELECTION PROCESS All applicants are invited to submit an online application at apply.nida.edu.au. If you are successful in the first round, you will be invited to discuss your strategic vision, creative process and experience at a face-to-face or online interview via Zoom. Applicants who do not have an undergraduate degree may be considered on the basis of evidence of extensive relevant professional experience of at least five years. A relevant area may be cultural, creative or other relevant sector/s, including evidence of sector leadership experience. You will be required to submit: → A detailed CV highlighting your education and training, professional work and other relevant information. → A personal statement of no more than 600 words, outlining interest in the course and your leadership aspirations. → A copy of your university transcript or certificate of award, or proof of five years of professional experience in a relevant area. If you are offered a place at NIDA, you will be required to provide certified copies of any documentation. Application requirements are subject to change. Full details of the 2021 process will be available at apply.nida.edu.au from 1 June 2021.
DIRECTING SELECTION PROCESS All applicants are invited to submit an online application at apply.nida.edu.au. If you are successful in the first round you will be invited to discuss your ambition, creative process and experience at a face-to-face or online interview via Zoom. You will be required to submit: → A detailed CV highlighting your education and training, professional work and other relevant information. → A two-page critical essay or report discussing an area of directing that you are interested in, your directing practice or a particular cultural event you have witnessed. → A portfolio with examples of past work that demonstrate your suitability for a career in directing. → A project based on a published play text of your choosing. This will form part of the discussion at the interview. → A copy of your university transcript or certificate of award, or proof of five years of professional experience in a relevant area. If you are offered a place at NIDA, you will be required to provide certified copies of any documentation.
WRITING FOR PERFORMANCE SELECTION PROCESS All applicants are invited to submit an online application at apply.nida.edu.au. If you are successful in the first round you will be invited to discuss your ambition, creative process and experience at an interview. You will be required to submit: → A detailed CV highlighting your education and training, professional work and other relevant information. → A portfolio with examples of your past work that demonstrate your suitability for a career in writing for performance. → Three best pieces of creative writing. These do not have to be plays or scripts but at least one piece should display dramatic qualities and one should contain a sample of dialogue. Each piece should be no more than 2,000 words. → A copy of your university transcript or certificate of award, or proof of five years of professional experience in a relevant area. If you are offered a place at NIDA, you will be required to provide certified copies of any documentation. As part of the selection process, you may be asked to rewrite and resubmit part of your work on the basis of comments provided by the Course Leader, Writing for Performance. NIDA may keep all or part of your work until the final selection of applicants is made. Ensure you keep a copy of all written work, as it will not be returned. Application requirements are subject to change. Full details of the 2021 process will be available at apply.nida.edu.au from 1 June 2021.
OFFERED IN 2023 → MFA (Design for Performance), for more info visit: nida.edu.au/design-for-performance → MFA (Voice), for more info visit: nida.edu.au/voice To register an expression of interest for 2023 please email applications@nida.edu.au
Application requirements are subject to change. Full details of the 2021 process will be available at apply.nida.edu.au from 1 June 2021. 53
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING WE SELECT APPLICANTS WHO: → → → →
Demonstrate skills in their area of interest. Exhibit a capacity to collaborate. Communicate effectively. Respond to feedback.
CUA50420 DIPLOMA OF LIVE PRODUCTION AND TECHNICAL SERVICES APPLY ONLINE Application details are published on apply.nida.edu.au and include a video submission, where you introduce yourself and discuss your interests, experience and training.
INTERVIEWS Once you’ve completed your application, you may be asked to participate in an interview, online or in person. If we meet you for an interview: → Provide a short testimonial from a teacher, colleague or employer outlining why you would be a good candidate for the course. → Provide evidence that you have completed the CUAWHS302 Apply Work Health and Safety Practices unit of competency, or, if you do not have this unit, you will be able to demonstrate equivalence on the day of the interview. At the interview, you may be asked to: → Talk to us about your experiences and /or training, in at least one technical area: staging, lighting, sound, or vision. → Undertake a written short-answer questionnaire. → Participate in one or more group problem-solving tasks.
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CUA50220 DIPLOMA OF MUSICAL THEATRE APPLY ONLINE Application details are published on apply.nida.edu.au, and include a video submission, where you sing two songs that are different in style, perform a monologue, and discuss your experiences and training.
AUDITIONS AND INTERVIEWS Once you’ve completed your application, you may be asked to participate in an audition and interview, online or in person. At the interview, you may be asked to: → → → →
Sing one or more songs. Present a monologue. Talk to us about your experiences and/or training. Participate in individual, and/or group, acting tasks.
CUA51020 DIPLOMA OF SCREEN AND MEDIA (SPECIALIST MAKE-UP SERVICES)
10194NAT DIPLOMA OF STAGE AND SCREEN PERFORMANCE
APPLY ONLINE
Application details are published on apply.nida.edu.au and include a video submission, where you perform monologues, and discuss your experiences and training.
Application details are published on apply.nida.edu.au and include a video submission, where you introduce yourself and discuss your interests, experience and training.
INTERVIEWS Once you’ve completed your application, you may be asked to participate in an interview, online or in person. If we meet you for an interview: → Provide a short testimonial from a teacher, colleague or employer outlining why you would be a good candidate for the course. → Bring along basic make-up items for a practical task.
APPLY ONLINE
AUDITIONS AND INTERVIEWS Once you’ve completed your application, you may be asked to participate in an audition and interview, online or in person. At the interview, you may be asked to: → Perform one or more of your monologues. → Talk to us about your experiences and/or training. → Participate in individual, and/or group, acting tasks.
At the interview, you may be asked to: → Present examples of your creative work (drawings, makeup face charts, photos of any make-up designs you have created). → Talk to us about your experiences and/or training. → Undertake a written short-answer questionnaire. → Participate in a practical make-up task.
OUR DIPLOMA GRADUATES Graduates from NIDA Diploma courses have found success in a range of entertainment organisations including Amazon Studios (The Wilds), John Frost (Shrek the Musical), Opera Australia (West Side Story, The Phantom of the Opera), Foundation Theatres (Capitol Theatre and Sydney Lyric), GWB Entertainment (School of Rock, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory), Michael Cassel Group (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child), ABC TV (Harrow, Wakefield), Seven Network (The Secret Daughter), MECCA Cosmetica, Sydney Opera House, City Recital Hall and more.
RTO Code: 90349 Vocational Education and Training at NIDA is only open to domestic students (Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents and New-Zealand residents). For the full audition and interview requirements, please refer to apply.nida.edu.au from 1 June 2021. Application requirements are subject to change. The latest information can be found via apply.nida.edu.au. 55
The information contained in the brochure was accurate at the time of publication: June 2021. NIDA reserves the right at any time to make changes as it deems appropriate. For the most up to date information visit apply.nida.edu.au.
National Institute of Dramatic Art 215 Anzac Parade Kensington NSW 2033 Australia Post NIDA UNSW Sydney NSW 2052 Australia Phone 02 9697 7600 Fax 02 9662 7415 Email info@nida.edu.au ABN 99 000 257 741 nida.edu.au @NIDACommunity Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn YouTube
The National Institute of Dramatic Art is supported by the Australian Government
NIDA is a registered Higher Education Provider Provider ID: PRV12052 CRICOS provider code: 00756M NIDA is registered by the Australian Skills Quality Authority under the National Vocational Education and Regulator Act 2011 as an NVR Registered Training Organisation RTO Code: 90349
