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2 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
Contents Subscription form............................................... 2 Acting .................................................................. 10 Arts Management ............................................. 30 Circus ................................................................... 37 Costumes/Props/Sets Design and Making ... 39 Dance ................................................................... 45 Directing ............................................................. 55 Drama/Education .............................................. 59 Make-Up .............................................................. 64 Music ................................................................... 67 Musical Theatre ................................................. 83 Sound & Light .................................................... 96 Stage Management ........................................ 106 Voice .................................................................. 113 Writing For Theatre ........................................ 115 Cover image: WAAPA 2015 production of Legally Blonde. Photo: Jon Green. www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 3
Acting
Federation University’s Thoroughly Modern Millie.
10 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
A Dream Play
Kim Carpenter, the artistic director of Theatre of Image, led an all-student cast and crew from NIDA in June to produce a hauntingly beautiful rendition of A Dream Play by Caryl Churchill and August Strindberg. The play is about a girl who descends from heaven to find out what life is like on earth. The production involved Acting, Costume, Design, Technical, Properties and Staging students from the Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees. Kim describes the experience.
You eventually have to invent all your organic logic to the whole thing, because it is a dream, and the object is to put a dream on stage. When I first met the actors, I didn’t give my opinion. I asked them what they thought after having read the play. They said they thought it was beautiful. I thought isn’t that wonderful. The general comment from the public was that they found it beautiful. We knew it was an enigmatic piece. Being a young company of NIDA It has been known to be called un- students, I wanted to find the light in the dark. directable. Carol Churchill likes to be In the Churchill version there are no cryptic and disconnected. So when you stage directions. They say it’s a room. combine Strindberg’s disconnection with hers, you get a double dose. It is Or a stage door. The scenes just begin and end. enigmatic, and you do spend a lot of It is so much to do with time wondering what the intention or atmosphere. Some connect with it, meaning is.
others don’t, like a surrealist painting. It was designed by a third year student, Isabel Hudson. We worked together. She is a student I have taught in a classroom. Once designed we had all the students in different departments work on it. For some it was a huge leap to work on something like this. (The design included windows, building blocks and little people.) The window plays a big part in our life. You see faces framed in windows. People looking out of windows. It is a frame like a photograph. But it was a skewed window. Everything was slightly irregular, in keeping with dream. The building block was about power and ambition and achievement and skyscrapers. The puppets depicted all the little tiny people on this planet. They rose to the occasion in terms of the actors. It is good to introduce something non naturalistic. They looked to expressionism in its various forms. I encouraged them to give truthful performances that were heighted and expressionistic. I think they are have achieved that in bold performances. www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 11
called? In acting terms, this may sound simple, and it is. The tricky part about things that are easy to do is that they are just as easy not to do - the actor can then become sidetracked by obligations that neither anchor nor release them. So - lock and load: energetically lock on and encompass what’s on your radar - be 100% present whilst giving each component the attention it both deserves and demands. Then, load your intention: from there allow the golden rule to guide you: if you’re getting what you want, want more of it. If you’re getting what you don’t want, work to change it. Getting ‘in state’ Actors then need to get ‘in state’ in order for this process to work effectively - i.e. in a state of readiness in every way required for acute reception and transmission of energy. When I’m ‘on’ as an actor, teacher or director, I feel available, present, eager, free, brave, sturdy, flexible, instinctive, responsive, alert. What are the words for you that describe your ‘on’ and in state? Once this moves into your muscle memory you’ll be able to step into your peak state on command for an audition, a screentest, the first run of the play, a preview, opening night, you name it. It doesn’t mean percentage of his energy waits for the there isn’t vulnerability present and some trepidation. There most often approaching bus, the majority of it is (always) is, particularly the higher the beaming across the world, alert, stakes. But it means you can ‘be’ with exposed and ever-present. that whilst being in command of all Now - intention. To zero in on you need to do. Therein lies one of the intention ask this simple question: skills of the actor, self-management: “What can I learn or lose within my choosing what you wish to focus on field of focus?” In other words will and what you choose to give your what’s on my radar screen help or hinder me? Is it someone or something energy to. Look at what triggers move you into I want in my life or out of my life? The your peak state and also which triggers golden rule of acting then kicks in: if move you out of state. As with all it’s good for you, want more of it. If things, we want to build on our it’s bad for you, run from it, hide from strengths and manage well our it, deny it, destroy it or change it. weaknesses. With your attention chosen and intention loaded, the actor then needs to let go and surrender to the journey Dean Carey, 2015 (Quotes from The as it unfolds through words and action. Acting Edge book) The man at the bus stop has .2% of his energy locked on the bus and 99.8% locked on his distant girlfriend. He ACA’s Full-Time Course applications sends a simple text, “Hey - what’s will be launching in August 2015. happening?” but with the intention: For ACA’s online course info go to Do you miss me? Do you care for me as www.acasydney.com.au I do for you? If so, why haven’t you
What Fuels An Actor? Dean Carey, Creative Director of Actors Centre Australia (ACA) in Sydney, says two things fundamentally fuel acting: the actor’s attention and intention. I define attention as whatever your energetic field is encompassing: what or who is on your radar and within your field of focus; it could be the book you are holding, the person who sits across the dinner table from you, the people surrounding you in the doctor’s surgery waiting room or a combination of a number of elements. It can also be invisible to the eye. When observing someone lost or deep in thought, even though this person sits on the couch in your lounge room, it is clear their energetic field is encompassing something far off and unseen. Watch a man staring at the screen of his cell phone and even though he is physically at the bus stop, his multitude of thoughts are clearly miles away - in fact, 3,578 miles to be exact, as his new girlfriend is away overseas. A small
12 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
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Duet & Bogey Man. Photo: Paul Jones.
From Wollongong To Singapore University of Wollongong’s Bachelor of Performance students were recently represented at the 8th Asia Pacific Bureau Theatre Schools Festival and Directors Conference at La Salle in Singapore.
The Asia Pacific Bureau (APB) Theatre Schools Festival was established in 2008. Its aim is to foster collaboration, build professional connections and encourage the sharing of knowledge and experience between theatre schools in the Asia Pacific region. The project was a double Daniel Keene is a multi-award bill: Duet & Bogey Man, two short plays by Daniel Keene directed by winning playwright; critically third year Bachelor of Performance acclaimed throughout Australia, the United States and Europe. Since student, Mark Churchill. The two plays are woven together 2000, more than 80 productions of into a single performance, but each his work have been presented, describes a different world. predominately in France. Bogeyman is set on a farm exploring Mark Churchill is working with the relationship of a farmer and his four 2nd year Bachelor of wife after the death in birth of their Performance students to bring Keene’s observations on the first child. Duet is set in a sewer where two homeless men push each symptoms of the underclass to the stage. He was recently awarded the other to the breaking point. Keene’s drama exists not only in inaugural Emerging Theatre Artist’s the words but around, beneath and Award for the high calibre of his between, in the silences from which work as an emerging theatre director, and in recognition of his his words are formed. Keene strips contribution as a sound designer his characters bare leaving them to struggle with their needs and vast and musician on various student and staff directed projects. cravings in worlds that are parched and desolate. 14 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
Rising Star Wins Heath Ledger Scholarship Screenwise Showreel graduate Matt Levett has been announced as this year’s winner of the hotly contested Heath Ledger Scholarship held in LA. The Heath Ledger Scholarship, proudly sponsored by Screenwise, was established in 2008 in honour of the late Academy Award winner. The scholarship aims to identify promising young Australian actors, and provide a bridge to help them carve out a career both at home and in Hollywood. Levett is now one step closer, receiving a USD$10,000 cash fund, a two year scholarship at the Stella Adler Academy of Acting and Theatre in Los Angeles, return flights with Virgin Australia, a 7 day Californian trip from Visit California, USD$5,000 worth of visa and immigration services from Raynor and Associates and complimentary lifetime membership to StarNow. The scholarship also includes mentorship from professionals in the industry. Since Matt graduated from Screenwise, he has appeared in TV dramas including A Place to Call Home, Bed of Roses, Home & Away, All Saints and the acclaimed mini-series Devil’s Playground. The career trajectory of the Aussie actor has continued to gain momentum through headlining Dean Francis’ powerful teen feature Drown, which played to sold out screenings at Sydney’s Mardi Gras Film Festival and also through directing the comedy short, Unwanted Friend, which was a finalist at Tropfest Film Festival in 2012. While it has been a prosperous 12 months for Levett, his success has been carefully planned and driven by dedicated training and hard work. In 2004 Levett enrolled in the popular Showreel Course at Screenwise. It is a part-time, year-long course that develops screen acting skills required for a professional and competitive Visit www.screenwise.com.au for information on the Showreel Course as well as other courses. showreel.
It was during his studies here that Screenwise CEO and Principal Denise Roberts quickly noticed Levett’s “unique ability to back up his acting skills with confidence and passion while under pressure which is at the core of our Showreel Course.” The Sydneyraised actor said he was stunned when he received the phone call from Ledger’s father, Kim. As is tradition, each year, Kim, patron of the scholarship, contacts the winner to advise them that they have won. “It is always such an exciting phone call to make because we know that the scholarship makes such an impact on a young performer’s career,” Ledger said. “For the seventh year, the scholarship has gone to a deserving recipient in Matt Levett.” Levett described winning the scholarship as “an incredible gift and a foot in the door, in the US.” Matt continues to cement his name in the domestic and international Film & TV Industry. Now spending more time in the US to “ride the wave”. “I will stay in the US for a bit now but I love Australia and I’ll never forget where I started,” he said. Screenwise Showreel students have scored roles in Home & Away, Janet King, Underbelly, Rescue, Crownies, Packed to the Rafters and countless TV commercials whilst studying at Screenwise. Proven to be a launch pad for many acting careers, the Showreel Course has produced actors of the calibre of Andy Whitfield (Spartacus), Stef Dawson (Hunger Games: Mockingjay 1 & 2), Tabrett Bethell (Legend of the Seeker), Valentino Del Toro (Fools Gold) and
Christian Clark (Gabriel) to name a few. Screenwise was established fifteen years ago to provide specialist, careerfocused training in acting for film & television. Screenwise Showreel graduates develop a showreel that illustrates the depth of their acting calibre. Over 40 weeks students refine their acting skills in preparation for a five week week production.
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Actors Centre Australia (02) 9310 4077 info@acasydney.com.au www.acasydney.com.au Advanced Diploma of Performing Arts, (Acting) - 2.5 years ASQA Australian Skills Quality Authority registered. VET FEE HELP approved. Course Content: Acting, Character, Voice, Movement, Mask, Emotional Instrument, Language Power, Performance History, Improvisation, Life Mastery, Animal, Shakespeare, Mask, Camera, Script Analysis, Singing, Screen Acting, Screen-testing, Audition Technique, Performance Lab, Accents, Singing & Showreel. Productions: Australian Scenework, Devised Theatre Project, Voice & Physical Theatre Performance, Russian Theatre Project, Shakespeare Theatre Project, VERBATIM theatre performance, American Theatre, & Industry Showcase. First year is foundational, Second year develops performance skills & Third year focus is industry readiness. Positions for first year intake offered through auditions only. Auditions in Sydney/Melbourne in November/December. ACA accepts 24 students annually. Actors College of Theatre and Television (02) 9213 4500 info@actt.edu.au www.actt.edu.au Advanced Diploma of Stage and Screen Acting - 4 semesters (two academic years) ACTT’s Advanced Diploma is designed to ensure students enter the industry with the highest level of preparation possible. The course includes extensive training in acting and the core principles of movement, voice, singing and dancing. Practice during the course is extended to theatre, stage and screen - including television and film, ensuring actors graduate with the versatility required for a successful and diverse career. Developed and refined over 20 years, this course incorporates the Eric Morris complete system of acting training. During the course, students will gain an understanding of the current industry and its history to support and give context to their practical instruction. Gaining a solid acting technique is only part of the journey to success. At ACTT, students are taught the importance of articulating and developing their own creative goals whilst continuing to work on solid stage and screen performances. From theatre classics to contemporary film scene work, students will be encouraged to explore conceptual techniques and acting traditions, and to integrate these for personal interpretation and practice. During the final year of this course a complete package of assets (including a showreel, headshots and showcase performance media) ensures students graduate with a well- developed portfolio to show prospective employers. Prerequisites Written application Audition No minimum ATAR/UAI required Minimum age of 18 at time of course commencement Certificate IV in Theatre and Screen Performance - 2 semesters (one academic year) This unique course provides the perfect foundation every performer needs to embark on a career in acting for stage, film or television. It integrates acting, voice and movement skills with performance training and delivery. This makes it the perfect preparatory course for ongoing vocational actor-training, entry into the performing arts industry or to complement skills in other professions. During the course, tutors draw upon a diverse range of exercises by many of the great acting teachers including Stanislavski, Meisner, Adler, Strasberg, Chekhov and the Eric Morris complete acting system. Students will also develop spatial and sensory awareness, and learn how to break down blocks and inhibitions. The Certificate IV in Theatre and Screen Performance not only develops the artist’s theoretical knowledge of the current industry and its history, but allows scope for practical development and execution. Students are given a very diverse range of opportunities in which to practice their skills during the course. From collaborating with other actors on campus to working with filmmakers from the co-located International Film School Sydney (IFFS), students complete this course with core acting skills and a clear vision of the contexts in which these skills may be applied. Towards the completion of the course, students are given the opportunity to apply the broad range of skills learnt to the delivery of a final performance, whilst also undertaking some of the operational ‘behind-the- scene’ roles required of the production Prerequisites Written application Audition No minimum ATAR/UAI required Minimum age of 18 at time of course commencement 16 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
The Actor’s Pulse (02) 9690 2216 | 0414 475 515 admin@theactorspulse.com www.theactorspulse.com.au Full Time Acting Course - 3 years full-time The Actors Pulse facilities coupled with our industry professional teachers are designed to give students creative and open environments to develop and grow as confident actors. Our students graduate as smart, marketable and strongly prepared actors who are able to confidently take their career into their own hands. Subject Areas include: Meisner Technique (acting technique, scene study, character, stage performance) Screen Acting (scene study, Character- film and TV, Audition technique, Screen performance technique) Movement (body language, expression) Voice and dialect (foundations, phonetics, accents) Prerequisites: Audition and Interview. No minimum ATAR required. http://enrol.theactorspulse.com.au/full-time-acting-course Meisner Technique Acting Course - 10-week terms (ongoing) The unique approach of our acting classes combines the techniques used for stage acting with the special considerations needed for film and television work. With a strong and basic foundation, an actor can confidently approach any material. Classes are ongoing and students progress through the levels according to their individual abilities. Great facilities, world-class industry professional teachers, flexible courses for focused and dedicated individuals. The Meisner Technique acting course can be taken in conjunction with the Screen Acting course. Prerequisites: Interview. No minimum ATAR required. http://theactorspulse.com.au/acting-courses/meisner-technique-acting-classes Screen Acting Course - 10-week terms (ongoing) The Actors Pulse Screen Acting course is specifically designed to give actors the skills required to do the job consistently at an international level of acting. At the core of this course are the underlying principles of the Meisner Technique as well as classic structure of story and character breakdown. The course is broken up into three levels that build upon each other, allowing students to understand and develop one step at a time. The course is ongoing and students progress according to individual abilities. Subjects to be covered over the three levels: Story Shape Character Style Text Relationship Techniques for cold reading, screen tests, monologue, auditions and commercials Screen Acting course can be taken in conjunction with the Meisner Technique acting course. Prerequisites: Interview. No minimum ATAR required. http://theactorspulse.com.au/acting-courses/screen-acting-camera-course Australian Institute of Music (02) 9219 5444 www.aim.edu.au/courses/acting-theatre Bachelor of Performance - 2 years (6 trimesters) The Dramatic Arts department (formerly the Australian Academy of Dramatic Art - AADA), provides students with the unique opportunity to train professionally as actors, theatre-makers & producers. Students learn the craft of acting & gain fundamental theatre-making skills in the areas of directing, design & technical production required for a professional career in the performing arts. www.aim.edu.au/courses/acting-theatre/bachelor-of-performance
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Canberra Academy of Dramatic Art (RTO 4059) 1300 908 905 admin@cada.net.au www.cada.net.au The Actor’s Craft Program - Certificate III in Performance (Acting) (One Semester) If you want to test whether you’ve got what it takes to pursue acting as a professional performer, this is the way to begin. The Certificate III in Performance program is an intensive drama school experience over one semester, introducing you to essential concepts and techniques. You’ll cover acting for stage and screen, voice and movement studies, auditioning, history of theatre and film, and much more. All trainers are professional actors, directors, producers and writers. On the successful completion of this course you’ll know whether you want to take it further - and if so, you have opportunity to move on to the Advanced Diploma of Performance within our Working Actor program. Entry to the Certificate III is via drama workshop (group) audition. As an entry-level course, no preparation is needed for this audition. www.cada.net.au/the-actors-craft.html The Working Actor Program - Advanced Diploma of Performance (Two years) VET Fee-Help Available - study now, pay later The ultimate aim of the actor-in-training is to become a working actor. CADA’s Advanced Diploma of Performance program is designed to make you just that: a versatile performer who can work across different media. Along with more in-depth training in technique and more stage and screen productions than the Certificate III, the Advanced Diploma includes companion skills for the actor - things like voiceover artistry, TV hosting, stage combat and more. The actor’s life is project-based, moving from one screen or theatre project to the next. We train you to know how to best manage this kind of lifestyle, as well as how to create your own work for performance, and how to think of yourself as ‘a business’ working in an industry. Our students and graduates have been cast in short and feature films, commercials, corporate video, and stage shows in Canberra and interstate. Entry to this course is by completion of the Certificate III at CADA or an equivalent training program. www.cada.net.au/the-working-actor.html NIDA (02) 9697 7600 info@nida.edu.au Bachelor of Fine Arts (Acting) - 3 years The Bachelor of Fine Arts (Acting) equips students with the specific knowledge and skill to pursue careers as actors across the breadth of today's arts and entertainment industries - in main stage and smaller independent theatre companies, film and television and commercial arenas. An emphasis on collaborative and self-directed devised work throughout the course prepares students to engage with a wide range of communities, and to initiate and create performance and related employment opportunities. Through practice-based learning, students develop technical skills in acting, voice, movement and music, as well as a thorough grounding in acting for camera, microphone technique and screen-related skills. Students participate in classroom exercises, in-depth scene work, rehearsals and full scale productions as they explore their individual talents and find their personal artistic voice. www.nida.edu.au/acting Sydney Theatre School 1300 551 432 Fax: (02) 9319 6400 info@sydneytheatreschool.com www.sydneytheatreschool.com Advanced Diploma of Arts (Acting) 10260NAT - 3 years full-time Sydney Theatre School is a Registered Training Organisation which was established in 2005. The school provides practical training for a professional acting career that’s production-based by design and industry-driven by nature. Under the guidance of expert teachers who are also experienced working actors and/or directors in theatre, film and television, students are constantly rehearsing and regularly performing on stage and screen throughout their program. We offer a fully accredited full-time course over three years leading to an Advanced Diploma of Arts (Acting) qualification. The course covers acting for both stage and screen; voice; movement; singing; theatre history; theatre skills; industry survival skills and more. Students graduate with a showreel and perform on stage for agents, casting directors and other industry professionals. For those wishing to train over a shorter period of time we also offer a one-year part-time Foundation course in acting for stage and screen. Prerequisites: Entry by audition and interview 18 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
University of New England (02) 6773 3755 akiernan@une.edu.au www.une.edu.au/about-une/academic-schools/school-of-arts/study-areas/theatre-studies Bachelor of Theatre Studies Bachelor of Arts (Major in theatre studies) Master of Applied Theatre Studies Master of Arts with Honours Doctor of Philosophy University of Newcastle Faculty of Educations and Arts, School of Creative Arts (02) 4921 8902 creativearts@newcastle.edu.au www.newcastle.edu.au/degrees/bachelor-of-arts/what-you-will-study/majors/creative-and-performing-arts Bachelor of Arts (Creative & Performing Arts) Doctor of Philosophy Drama and Performance If you are a creative type looking to sharpen your skills and explore new and intriguing areas of self-expression, this confidence-boosting and character-building major is for you. You can choose from a diverse range of visual art, drama and performance-making courses offered at the Callaghan and Central Coast campuses. Explore what it means to think creatively and how it can help you navigate an increasingly complex world. Visual artist, musician, writer and Creative Arts Lecturer Sean Lowry says this major attracts a wide range of academic abilities and that the most exciting element of the courses is unlocking every student's potential. Graduating with this major, you will be valued in the workplace for your: artistic and creative ability communication skills critical thinking project management skills technical knowledge understanding of group dynamics. Job opportunities exist in government and private sectors, as well as in other creative industries such as advertising, journalism, public relations and marketing." www.newcastle.edu.au/degrees/bachelor/majors/arts/creative-and-performing-arts.htm Screenwise (RTO 91699) (02) 9281 4484 Fax: (02) 9281 4482 info@screenwise.com.au www.screenwise.com.au Diploma of Screen Acting (91506NSW) - 2 years full-time Now with VET FEE HELP for eligible students, The two-year full-time comprehensive and technical screen acting course provides students with specialist career focused training. Based on the Roberts Method, The course fuses a strong academic element with a hard-nosed professionalism. With the majority of renowned acting schools in Australia focusing on theatre, Screenwise aims to give students total focus and immersion training in the unique skills and techniques required for screen acting to meet the demands of today’s industry. During the second year of study, students will prepare for and participate in a major Industry Showcase. Prerequisites: Applicants must be 18 years of age by course commencement www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 19
University of Wollongong School of the Arts, English and Media (02) 4221 3456 | 1300 367 869 lha-enquiries@uow.edu.au or uniadvice@uow.edu.au http://lha.uow.edu.au/taem Bachelor of Creative Arts (Theatre) (UAC 754609) / Bachelor of Creative Arts (Theatre) Deans Scholar (UAC 754610) - 3 years full-time The study of theatre looks at how performers, props, lighting, special effects, movement, sound, music and text combine to create an experience or reflect the world to a live audience, in order to entertain and inform. It considers all the elements of how the stage is presented to create atmosphere and impact. This flexible degree equips you with skills in a broad range of performance-related areas including stage craft, dramaturgy, stage management and the production of live performance. You will be introduced to performance skills including acting, singing, movement and voice, as well as lighting and sound design. You will learn that theory and history are essential to your development as an informed, professional and self-reliant practitioner. You can also undertake units in playwriting through the creative writing program. Prerequisites: Nil. Recommended studies in English and Drama http://go.uow.edu.au/bca-thea Bachelor of Performance (UAC 754800) / Bachelor of Performance Deans Scholar (UAC 754810) - 3 years full-time The performing arts offers a wide variety of roles and occupations: from acting, singing and directing to production, lighting, sound stage management and set design. The performing arts form part of the creative industries sector—a $32 billion dollar industry that is one of the fastest growing in the world. Subjects will cover traditional interpretive actor training, developing your skills in acting, voice, singing and movement, and also focus on both text-based and devised works for theatre and contemporary performance. You will study theatremaking with an emphasis on collaboration and ensemble practice. Subjects also build research skills and cover the history and theory of theatre. Prerequisites: Nil. Recommended studies in English and Drama http://go.uow.edu.au/bperf Doctor of Creative Arts (PhD) The Doctor of Creative Arts (DCA) is for students with a high level of professional experience who wish to extend their practice within a scholarly context. As a Creative Arts candidate you will have opportunities to work and study with artists and media practitioners in a vibrant research culture with significant opportunity for interdisciplinary and cross-art form collaboration. http://www.uow.edu.au/handbook/yr2016/pg/H16006009.html Wesley Institute (02) 9819 8888 info@wi.edu.au www.wi.edu.au/courses/creative-arts-courses/drama-courses Bachelor of Dramatic Art - 3 years full time / Up to 6 years part time Diploma of Dramatic Art - 2 years full time / Up to 4 years part time The Bachelor of Dramatic Art offers three specialist strands, Performance, Production and Theatre Practice, allowing you to take classes unique to your chosen career path. Regular productions supply excellent opportunities for practical training and our outstanding faculty, headed by Dr Herman Pretorius, offer specialist support and a wealth of knowledge and experience. You’ll grow in the confidence and expertise necessary to generate your own works and to participate successfully in a theatre company. This degree also offers the opportunity to supplement your passion with the skills, experiences and expertise necessary for a career in theatre, film and television. Students exiting the Bachelor of Dramatic Art after the first two years of the degree will be awarded the Diploma of Dramatic Art. Oz to LA Within the Bachelor of Dramatic Art, study alongside the best in the business through the Oz to LA Industry Placement. Successful students will participate in up to 3 months intensive training in screen acting in Hollywood. You will have the opportunity to pursue your passion for film, while networking with Christian artists in Hollywood and participating in industry talks covering topics including, ‘Ethics and The Industry’ and ‘The art of feeding the dream, while living the reality: A Faith/Art/Life interaction.’ Program highlights also feature a VIP tour of the Warner Brothers Studios and excursions to Bel Air Presbyterian Church, The Dream Center, Oasis Church and Paramount Studios (among others). 20 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
The Actors Workshop Australia (07) 3891 1411 admin@theactorsworkshop.com.au www.theactorsworkshop.com.au Certificate IV in Film and Television Introduction to Acting Technique, Improvisation, Voice Training, Screen Acting for Camera, Monologues, Short Films, Role Plays, Work Experience. Prerequisites: Preferred Grade 12 completion. Diploma of Film and Television Acting - 2 years Advanced Acting Technique, Character, Movement, Improvisation, Voice Studies, Screen Acting for Camera, Stage Combat, Host Presenting, Auditioning, Monologues, Critical Film Analysis, Short Films, Role Plays, Work Experience. Prerequisites: Preferred Grade 12 completion Advanced Diploma of Film, Television and Theatre Acting 2 years training. Advanced Acting Technique, Character, Movement, Improvisation, Voice Studies, Screen Acting for Camera, Stage Combat, Host Presenting, Auditioning, Monologues, Critical Film Analysis, Short Films, Role Plays, Work Experience, 2 year Theatre Program. Prerequisites: Preferred Grade 12 Griffith University 1800 154 055 Bachelor of Arts in Applied Theatre - 3 years full-time Designed for those who are committed and passionate about theatre, drama and performance work, this practical and creative course involves group collaborative workshops and small research groups. Industry professionals will teach you skills in devising theatre, acting and performance skills development, directing, staging major productions, understanding contemporary and historical theatre contexts, and developing applied theatre projects in community contexts. You'll also undertake a major work placement in the theatre industry or a related area, such as media. Exchange opportunities to prestigious universities in the UK, Canada and Taiwan are also available. Prerequisite: English (4SA) www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?programCode=1069 Master of Applied Theatre and Drama Education - 2 years full-time As a teacher, social worker or dramatic artist, these programs give you the knowledge and understanding of the pedagogy and practice of drama education and leadership skills. Prerequisites: Hold a bachelors degree from a recognised tertiary institution; and possess demonstrated ability to benefit from a postgraduate level program; and have satisfied the Admissions Committee in a qualifying test and/or interview; and provide, if requested, written support from the employer. www148.griffith.edu.au/programs-courses/Program/OverviewAndFees?programCode=5462 Master of Applied Theatre and Drama Education with Honours - 3 years part-time As a teacher, social worker or dramatic artist, these programs give you the knowledge and understanding of the pedagogy and practice of drama education and leadership skills. Prerequisites: Hold a bachelors degree from a recognised tertiary institution; and possess demonstrated ability to benefit from a postgraduate level program; and have satisfied the Admissions Committee in a qualifying test and/or interview; and provide, if requested, written support from the employer. www148.griffith.edu.au/programs-courses/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=5403 Bachelor of Education - Secondary (Drama) - 3.5 years full-time You’ll learn how to teach Drama and one other subject at secondary level. For your second subject, you can choose Computer Education, English, Geography, Health and Physical Education, History, Mathematics, Music, Science (Biology), Visual Arts or Learning Enhancement. You’ll undertake practicums in secondary schools to develop your teaching skills. www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=1397
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Queensland University of Technology Creative Industries Faculty (07) 3138 8114 Bachelor of Fine Arts (Acting) - 3 years full-time The QUT acting course is the only undergraduate degree in acting in Queensland and is designed for those who want to become professional actors. This conservatoire-style acting course will educate, train and nurture your creative potential from a novice to a professional. It offers a rich program of study that fosters the development of bold, truthful, and passionate actors. You will develop your skill, craft, artistry and your humanity. Our staff are committed to offering you a learning environment that challenges and inspires you to be an innovative and imaginative actor. QUT actors work with professional film production companies and perform on stage in professional venues in a season of public productions. Your screen work will include both studio and on-location shoots. You will graduate as an employable stage and screen actor with an understanding of the profession, ready to identify your niche within it and join our many successful graduates within the industry. www.qut.edu.au/study/study-areas/study-acting Bachelor of Fine Arts (Drama) - 3 years full-time The QUT drama course is for students interested in exploring practical careers in directing, designing, teaching, devising, creative producing and administration, or performing in a range of experimental theatre forms. It offers flexibility and breadth, combining creative experiences in performance making with highly relevant theoretical studies that will connect you with contemporary performance both nationally and globally. You will find yourself collaborating with talented industry professionals and students and the creative relationships you develop will establish the professional networks you will be drawing on throughout your career. A range of elective units are on offer to build skills in complementary areas— choosing from other disciplines in the Creative Industries Faculty which may include film, TV and new media, creative writing, visual arts, or music, to name a few. Our most recent graduates are at the heart of the exciting growth in the independent theatre sector in Australia. Graduates work as event coordinators, festival organisers and administrators. Some establish companies with other graduates to create work for the independent theatre sector. Others have established successful careers as playwrights, artistic directors, directors and designers or performers working across a variety of genres including physical theatre or music. www.qut.edu.au/study/study-areas/study-drama University of Queensland (07) 3365 1111 www.uq.edu.au Drama Single Major Seeing and critiquing professional performance, reading plays from around the world and throughout the past 2000 years, honing your performance skills: These are all part of the Drama major. You will learn how to interpret theatre through time and space, but you will also be challenged to think about what constitutes performance, not only on the stage, but on the page and in everyday life. You will develop an understanding of the theatrical and literary aspects of drama, from ancient Greek classics to Medieval theatre to the most recent Australian and European plays. You do not have to audition but there are practical performance options at advanced level. www.uq.edu.au/study/plan.html?acad_plan=DRAMAX2320 University of Southern Queensland Faculty of Arts (07) 4631 5315 1800 269 500 study@usq.edu.au Bachelor of Creative Arts The Program offers: an exciting range of learning options and career pathways provides extensive opportunities for creative practice and performance a comprehensive selection of courses in dramatic theory in all courses the integration of theory and practice is paramount a solid foundation in arts business practice that is linked to industry and professional expectation mentored through a process of developing a project aligned to their career aspirations in the final year. In the first two years of a degree, students are supervised through a range of practical projects incorporating: children's and young peoples' theatre 22 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
community theatre video production an introduction to the basic working language of the modern actor. www.usq.edu.au/handbook/2014/creative-arts-media/BCRA.html Also Honours Flinders Drama Centre Flinders University (08) 8201 2578 drama@flinders.edu.au http://flinders.edu.au/drama Acting (BCA) - 4 years The Flinders Drama Centre acting course is unique in Australia because it integrates the skillbased teaching of a drama school with the conceptual and analytical skills of a university. At Flinders there is no artificial separation between the body and mind, emotion and intellect. Our degree programs prepare our graduates to be creative, articulate and adaptable artists in whatever area they work. Unlike many other acting courses in Australia, the Drama Centre places equal emphasis on screen and theatre acting. And for more than twenty-five years, former Flinders Drama students have made impressive contributions to Australian film, theatre and television. Among our graduates are winners of Australian Film Institute Best Actor and Actress awards, the New York Best Newcomer Award, Green Room Awards, South Australian Critics’ Circle Awards, and the Jill Blewitt Playwright prize. We even have an Academy Award nominee. Flinders graduates can be found throughout the performing and media arts in Australia, working successfully as writers, performers, directors, administrators and commentators. http://flinders.edu.au/ehl/drama/undergraduate-courses/acting/acting_home.cfm Drama Honours (BA) The Honours year in the BA is an opportunity to pursue an advanced program of study in Drama and to develop research skills by writing a thesis. The Honours program is available to all students with a major in Drama at Distinction level or better in their third year. An Honours degree is the usual requirement for admission to postgraduate study. It also offers valuable specialisation for students intending to teach Drama http://flinders.edu.au/ehl/drama/undergraduate-courses/drama-honours-ba.cfm Bachelor of Creative Arts (Drama) - 3 years The aim of the course is to prepare students for a professional life by: equipping students with basic professional skills in the areas of major employment in the entertainment industry: realistic acting techniques, acting for screen, directing for theatre and screen, and music theatre; introducing students to areas of development and increasing importance in the Australian industry: post-modern performance techniques, intercultural performance, and the interface between live performance and multimedia; encouraging all students to work as conceptual artists through courses specialising in techniques of group devising, auto-performance and scriptwriting; developing in students, through a comprehensive history and theory stream, an awareness of the relevance of these discourses to professional practice. www.flinders.edu.au/courses/rules/undergrad/bca/bca-drama.cfm##courseaims University of South Australia 1300 UNINOW study@unisa.edu.au Bachelor of Media Arts (Drama Major) https://my.unisa.edu.au/public/pcms/program.aspx?pageid=446&sid=1621&y=2013 Adelaide College of the Arts TAFE SA (08) 8463 5000 arts.adl@tafesa.edu.au acarts.edu.au At Adelaide College of the Arts we believe that studying acting is studying humanity, and is therefore a rich and lifewww.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 23
affirming pursuit. That philosophy brings context to the rigour, and spirit to the muscle of our course. Students find the study and practice of acting, movement and voice at is constantly pursued under this philosophy. We not only help our students to understand acting and how to do it, but why they do it; theatre’s purpose and their purpose as an actor and artist. This course equips students to take centre-stage in mainstream theatre, film and TV and to follow scores of our graduates in creating their own successful and innovative theatre as well as pursuing interests in teaching, directing, producing and writing theatre. All these things grow from our rigorous actor-training program. There are many roads to being an actor, but there are very few courses in Australia, like ours, that can afford the 9am to 6pm, Monday-to-Friday focus on the body, voice and imagination of the actor; on essential studio time with high quality feedback from our teachers. Our state- of-the-art studios and theatres are situated in a $60m purpose-built performing and visual arts centre located in the heart of the city. The Advanced Diploma of Arts (Acting) focuses on the core disciplines of acting, voice and movement through: regular singing classes; a strong strand of teaching and projects in theatre-making, culminating in a third year main stage production; a grounding in theatre history, performance studies and aesthetics; a production schedule throughout the second and third years that sees you rehearsing a sequence of eight shows in our fully equipped theatres, working with the best directors in the local industry and culminating in a graduate show, presented alongside an industry showcase to local and national theatre and film agents and directors; training in the specialised demands of acting on screen, with classes from first year onward culminating exercises in television multi-camera in second year, and short films and professional showreel shoots in third year. University of Tasmania Tasmanian College of the Arts (Theatre) (03) 6324 4400 | 1300 363 864 TCotA.Theatre@utas.edu.au www.utas.edu.au/tcota Bachelor of Contemporary Arts (Theatre) CRICOS CODE 039207G - 3 years full time The three-year, BCA (Theatre) degree is part of an ongoing 40 year history of theatre and performance education in Tasmania. Studying with us will develop, expand and diversify your understanding of contemporary theatre practice as you become part of one of the nations leading sites for cultural and practical interaction and education in artistic pursuits: The Tasmanian College of the Arts (TCotA). Our Theatre students are exposed to key areas of performance, design, production, direction, voice, movement and devising. They are dedicated, passionate and part of a unique theatre family housed within the extraordinary surrounds of the Annexe Theatre complex at Inveresk, a working theatre space dedicated to the highest levels of research, design, rehearsal, production and performance practices. Prerequisites: Applicants are expected to have satisfied the University’s Admission requirements and will be required to present a portfolio of their work to be discussed at interview (overseas and interstate applicants may submit a digital portfolio). Deakin University 1300 DEGREE (1300 334 733) enquire@deakin.edu.au www.deakin.edu.au Bachelor of Creative Arts (Drama) - 3 years Deakin’s Bachelor of Creative Arts (Drama) offers you systematic exposure to collaborative possibilities between various art forms, the experience of bringing art forms together in major projects and training in creative arts enterprise and management. You will also receive grounding in the academic knowledge necessary to understand the arts and to create new forms of art. The program draws upon the expertise of its staff - who are active practitioners in their fields, and industry - through visiting, special guest and casual academic staff. The drama program will develop your skills in contemporary drama practices and perspectives. It is a dynamic combination of acting theory and practice, performance styles and processes, theatre history, text studies, community theatre and technical studies. Final year students are able to participate in performing arts (drama) internships. Deakin drama graduates have a well-deserved reputation for high levels of skill, flexibility and initiative. The course equips you with the skills to establish independent drama production companies and projects. www.deakin.edu.au/future-students/courses/course.php?course=A357&stutype=local
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La Trobe University 1300 135 045 www.latrobe.edu.au Bachelor of Creative Arts - 3 years This course provides a diverse range of subjects to help students shape and develop creative abilities - allowing them to explore creative practices while also preparing for professional roles in creative writing, performance and media arts. The curriculum combines practical work, critical thinking, research, and theoretical studies. It allows students to focus on specific areas of writing, performance, and media arts, and to combine subjects from these areas. Graduates have gone on to roles in a wide range of exciting careers in the arts, from screen-writing to acting, filmmaking and theatre production. www.latrobe.edu.au/courses/theatre-and-drama Monash University Monash University Academy of Performing Arts (03) 9902 6000 www.monash.edu.au Bachelor of Performing Arts - 3 years What do Academy Award-winning film producer Eva Orner, comedian Charlie Pickering, and playwright David Williamson have in common? They're all performing arts heavyweights who got their start with Monash. Walk in their footsteps with the most comprehensive theatre and performance program offered by any university in Australia. At Monash, we believe in learning by doing. As part of your degree you'll take part in cooperative productions which stretch your creative limits by combining two or more performing art forms - like musical theatre, dance-drama productions or sound sculpture exhibitions. Benefit from fantastic facilities - our Performing Arts Centre contains a recital hall, drama theatre, music technology studios, an Early Music Room, an Asian Orchestras Room and a suite of practice studios. And be inspired by staff members like Dr Jane Montgomery Griffiths, who has been invited to participate in PlayWriting Australia's 2012 National Script Workshop - a prestigious invitation giving her the chance to disseminate her research at a national level with industry professionals. To polish your skills you can take part in the Monash Uni Student Theatre, and various productions with the Monash University Academy of Performing Arts. http://artsonline.monash.edu.au/theatre-performance Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Performing Arts - 4 years Can't get enough of the arts? Then this is the double degree for you. Mix music and theatre, and benefit from some of the best facilities in the world. Our School of Music - Conservatorium is consistently ranked among the best music schools in Australia. We attract individuals like Paul Grabowsky, the esteemed Australian pianist, jazz musician, conductor and composer, who has taken up a Vice-Chancellor's Professorial Fellowship in the School of Music from 2012. You will receive one-on-one instrumental teaching to develop your solo and ensemble performance skills. You'll have a number of opportunities to study overseas. For example, jazz and popular studies students travel to Italy and New York in alternate years to study and perform with world-renowned musicians such as James Morrison, Claire Bowditch, Don Burrows, Vince Jones, George Garzoni and Aaron Goldberg. Our performing arts degree is the largest comprehensive theatre and performance program offered by an Australian university. Be inspired by staff members like Dr Jane Montgomery Griffiths, who has been invited to participate in PlayWriting Australia's 2012 National Script Workshop - a prestigious invitation giving her the chance to disseminate her research at a national level with industry professionals. With both of these degrees, you will benefit from fantastic facilities - our Performing Arts Centre contains a recital hall, drama theatre, music technology studios, an Early Music Room, an Asian Orchestras Room and a suite of practice studios (with quality pianos). www.monash.edu.au/study/coursefinder/course/3054 Diploma of Arts Certificate in Theatre
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16th Street Actors Studio (03) 9533 0216 admin@16thstreet.com.au www.16thstreet.com.au Youth Program - 8 week terms 16th Street’s Youth Program, runs on Sunday’s from 11am to 2pm, 8 weeks per term for 14 to 16 year olds. The Youth Program will empower you to find your voice and share your stories through exploring some of the challenges teenagers are currently faced with. We encourage you to trust your unique opinions and ideas and to celebrate your differences. Prerequisites: Entry by audition. Part Time Program - 18 months Subject Areas (120 words) - In this program at 16th Street you will develop your skill, craft, artistry and humanity. Your growth as a person is inseparable from your growth as an actor. 16th Street fosters a spirit of generosity, a dedicated work ethic and a respect for the craft of acting. We believe that actors must have the skill and ability to work in all mediums of our industry. Prerequisites: Entry by audition. Minimum age of entry is 18. Federation University 1800 FED UNI (1800 333 864) info@federation.edu.au www.federation.edu.au Bachelor of Arts (Acting) The Fed Uni Camp Street Campus offers a three-year full - time Bachelor of Arts (Acting), A three-year full-time Bachelor of Music Theatre is also offered. The Acting degree offers focused theatre study, allowing the student to develop skills and gain the techniques needed to become a professional actor. Classes are taught by respected artists and teachers, ensuring that the perspective gained by emerging performers is relevant, rigorous and contemporary. The student is encouraged to explore existing repertoire and new work. The course is underpinned by a philosophy of blending practice with theory, incorporating workshops, rehearsal and research. Subjects include: Voice, Dance, Acting (for theatre and film), Performance Studio and Critical Studies. Studio and public performances occur at each level of the program. Successful completion of this program will enable graduates to emerge as a performer with the knowledge and skills to: Demonstrate specific acting skills on stage or screen Demonstrate flexibility and range in vocal skills Demonstrate flexibility and range in movement skills Understand the performing arts heritage Synthesise performance skills, creative processes, production and management skills Display a sensitivity to the needs and reactions of other theatre workers and collaborators Research and contribute to the creation of characters and the collaborative process of performance-making www.federation.edu.au/faculties-and-schools/faculty-of-education-and-arts/school-of-arts-humanities-and-socialsciences/performing-arts/bachelor-of-arts-acting The National Theatre Drama School (03) 9534 0223 Fax: (03) 9593 6366 drama@nationaltheatre.org.au http://drama.nationaltheatre.org.au Advanced Diploma of Acting - 3 years Full-Time The first year of the course focuses primarily on the physical and vocal development of the actor. Voice classes, Movement techniques, The Actor’s Body all form the basis of the initial studies. The concentrated study of text work begins in the Second Semester of this year. In this second year the skills and techniques of devising original work are added to the on-going text-based practice along with the basic skills and techniques of screen acting. Rehearsal techniques for live performance are the focus of the first play project which takes place in the final term. In the third year the focus is on preparation for entering the Industry. Advanced screen acting and audition techniques, refinement of live performance skills and the development of performance-creation and presentation techniques are directed towards career development following graduation. 26 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
Preparatory Course - 6 months Part-Time A new part-time short-course provides opportunities to experience the range of disciplines and skills needed for a professional career on stage or screen, before committing to higher-level study. Working with respected Industry professionals, students undertake classes in Movement, Voice, Improvisation, Text Study, and Stage and Screen Acting. Class sizes are capped so that students receive the maximum attention and encouragement and are given the best chance to fully explore their training potential. Subject areas include: Improvisation, Stage acting, Text analysis, Movement for actors, Voice and singing, Industry knowledge, Screen acting basics There are two annual intakes (February and June) and places are allocated by audition in December and May each year. Victorian College of the Arts The University of Melbourne 13 MELB http://vca.unimelb.edu.au Bachelor of Fine Arts (Theatre Practice) - 3 years Theatre Practice is an intensive actor training program where you will develop into an autonomous artist, able to interpret established texts as well as generate and perform new material. The program provides a studio-based learning environment where you are encouraged to develop holistically as an actor. Our philosophy and practice is centred on the development of independent artists who possess a passion for theatre and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the evolution of the art form. We employ an expansive, progressive use of the term ‘actor’ that builds upon the idea of a performer who interprets existing text. Our definition also recognises the actor as an artist with agency to generate new performances. The structure of the course allows intensive skills training and practice to take place alongside rehearsal processes and a wide variety of performance situations. Collaborative practice is regarded as an important element of contemporary theatre and is therefore integral to our training. In the first year you integrate imagination, voice and body skills and apply these in a range of performance contexts. The second year continues to develop your kinaesthetic and perceptual awareness in performance and you learn to work within a production process from conception through to rehearsal and performance. In the final year of the program you have developed your methodology as a working actor and employ it in multiple productions - including the Festival of New Work. Our graduates work at all levels of the theatre, film and television industries, and are renowned for their capacity to work creatively and collaboratively, in both traditional and ground-breaking performance contexts. Students establish careers in professional theatre, community arts and education, film, television, radio, new media and education. https://vca.unimelb.edu.au/study/degrees/bachelor-of-fine-arts-theatre-practice/overview Master of Theatre Practise Winter and summer schools BA Communications (Media/Theatre) Act 1 School for Young Actors 0413 877 342 info@act1school.com www.act1school.com Acting Classes for Kids and Teens - 8 week terms Act 1 is the new generation of drama education for kids and teens. With locations in Richmond and Point Cook, we offer accessible, structured, acting classes for kids and teens. Our curriculum is based on years of training, hard work and experience of professional actors. At Act 1, we teach the relevant skills needed during rehearsal, on set and in the theatre. We provide a supportive and happy learning environment, where the self-expression of all students is valued and respected, allowing them to build self-esteem and self-confidence. By working with other students as a creative team, problem solving, communication and collaboration skills improve. And best of all, students learn through the exhilarating experience of creative expression.
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Talent Company of Australia (TCA) Stage School Australia (03) 9384 2963 agent@talentcompany.com.au www.talentcompany.com.au Screen Acting Short Courses - 8 to 10 weeks The TCA has recently introduced Screen Acting Short Courses as ongoing programmes of Stage School Australia. The TCA’s new Short Courses are a great way for young people aged from 10-18 to gain intensive, concentrated learning in Screen Acting techniques. With personalised classes in groups of no more than 14, these weekly sessions provide specific instruction in particular areas of acting. These classes are great for both Drama and Musical Theatre students to learn more of what it takes to succeed on the large and small screens! WAAPA Edith Cowan University 134 ECU (134 328) Outside Australia: +61 8 6304 0000 enquiries@ecu.edu.au Acting Studying Acting at WAAPA is an inspiring and all consuming experience. For over 25 years the Acting course has been developed and refined to provide graduates with the skills and experience required to engage in professional theatre practice. The Acting program trains students as a theatre ensemble. The ensemble develops performance skills in acting, voice and movement by exploring a wide range of works and performance styles, as well as through improvisation and devising original works. While theatre is the core focus of the course, students are also trained in acting for television, film and radio. This practical training is grounded by the study of text analysis, theatre history, contemporary theatre practice and professional preparation. Students integrate their class studies and performance training throughout the course in classroom presentations, workshops, short films and public performances. Students work closely with WAAPA’s world-class teaching staff and specialist tutors who share the knowledge and skills they have gained through professional acting and directing careers. Working with guest artists and leading industry practitioners facilitates the transition from student to professional life. Full-scale acting productions provide the opportunity for students to collaborate with their WAAPA peers from other disciplines, such as Production and Design, and subsequently learn more about the complete theatrical production process. WAAPA boasts five performance venues including a proscenium arch theatre, a court style theatre, a black box theatre and an outdoor amphitheatre all equipped with state-of-the-art production facilities. For graduating students the course culminates in Showcase performances in Perth, Melbourne and Sydney. This provides the opportunity for the students to be introduced to agents, directors, producers and industry professionals. WAAPA students have an enviable record for securing agency representation following Showcase. The Acting course has an international reputation for excellence built on the success of graduates such as Hugh Jackman, Frances O’Connor, Marcus Graham, Rachael Maza, Dominic Purcell, William McInnes and Ditch Davey. These and many other WAAPA alumni have established careers in theatre, film, television and radio both in Australia and internationally. www.waapa.ecu.edu.au/courses-and-admissions/our-courses/disciplines/acting Certificate IV In Aboriginal Theatre This accredited course is a one year vocational program integrating the fundamentals of song, dance and acting from an Aboriginal perspective. A course assisting students wishing to enter the entertainment industry from an Aboriginal perspective, who may be hampered by a lack of tuition at an appropriate level in one or more of the areas of song, dance and acting. The course assists Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to gain admission into mainstream theatre training programs in Australia and to enhance the student’s ability to audition for and perform roles in theatre, musical theatre, television and film. On completion of the course, students will have integrated dance, singing and acting into a performance skill. They will have acquired a basic knowledge of Indigenous culture in the context of performance, visual art and writing and they will be more aware of the communication skills necessary to gain employment and function as a professional artist. Prerequisites: Applications are submitted directly to WAAPA via the Online Application System. Admission is based on an audition and interview (no acting or performing experience is required). 28 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
Bachelor of Arts (Acting) Studying acting at WAAPA is an inspiring and all-consuming experience. The Acting course provides graduates with the skills and experience required to engage in professional theatre practice and contemporary screen work. The program trains students as a theatre ensemble. The ensemble develops performance skills in acting, voice and movement by exploring a wide range of works and performance styles, as well as through improvisation and devising original works. While theatre is the core focus of the course, students are also trained in acting for television, film and radio. Working with guest artists and leading industry practitioners facilitates the transition from student to professional life. Full-scale acting productions provide the opportunity for students to collaborate with their WAAPA peers from other disciplines, such as Production and Design, and learn more about the complete theatrical production process. Our Acting course has an international reputation for excellence, built on the success of graduates such as Hugh Jackman, Jai Courtney, Frances O’Connor, Marcus Graham, Rachael Maza, Dominic Purcell, and William McInnes. These and many other WAAPA alumni have established careers in theatre, film, television and radio both in Australia and internationally. Prerequisites: Applications are submitted directly to WAAPA via the Online Admission System. Admission is based on audition and interview and will be held in November-December annually. Students will be assessed on their ability to meet the technical requirements of the course and their suitability for the industry. The audition will include a thorough assessment of acting skills. Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School +64 4 381 9251 Fax: +64 4 389 4996 apply@toiwhakaari.ac.nz www.toiwhakaari.ac.nz Bachelor of Performing Arts (Acting) - 3 years full-time The first year is about discovery and exploration. We help you develop your craft through regular tuition in voice, movement, acting and performance for camera through the concept of Turanga (difference). The second year concentrates on strengthening technique and performance through Raranga (collaboration). Special block based courses may include bouffon, screen, object animation, mask and devising. During the third year, (Waewae - moving forward), all students present a major research project and perform in the professionally directed and crewed graduation film and a graduation production. In addition, each participates in professional industry secondments, supervised independent study and collaborative projects across the year. Prerequisites: There are no educational prerequisites however a good level of physical fitness is essential. Entry is by audition and interview. www.toiwhakaari.ac.nz/study-at-toi-whakaari/acting Toi Whakaari NZ Drama School’s Into The Woods. Photo: Philip Merry.
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Arts Management
NIDA production of The Tempest.
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Back in 2008, Alexis Johns was looking for a new career path. She had a degree in Contemporary Arts (Theatre) from the University of Tasmania and had worked overseas as an English teacher. The idea of working in the arts industry both creatively as well as on the business end appealed to her. “Having a creative background, I’ve always enjoyed working with actors and other creatives,” says Johns. “However I also had a real interest and flair for the business side of the industry.” In 2009 she enrolled in WAAPA’s Arts Management course, with the aim of becoming a casting agent. “I worked hard to steer my studies and related-work experience in that direction and apply my learning to the screen industry,” says Johns. In her final year at WAAPA, Johns secured a workplace secondment with one of Australia’s top casting agencies, Mullinars Casting Consultants in Sydney. She found herself assisting on casting a major TV commercial and a feature film. When her secondment finished, Johns was offered a job as a voice-over agent with Australia’s top voice agency, RMK Management. Now a Casting Associate at
Casting Calls How an Arts Management graduate got her dream job in casting Mullinars, Johns has worked on film and television projects including Underbelly, Love Child, Howzat! Kerry Packer’s War, A Place to Call Home, Puberty Blues, Paper Giants, Fat Tony, Serangoon Road, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries and House of Hancock. Johns believes the Arts Management course set her up for her future career. “I apply the skills and knowledge I gained to my work every single day,” she explains. “Whether it be negotiating with agents, working with actors in a creative sense or dealing with producers and networks, subjects I studied at WAAPA such as Arts Law, Management and Finance prepared me for many of the specialised areas I am now responsible for.” The practical experience Johns gained at WAAPA, working in a number of different arts organisations and getting to know the people
behind them, also played an important role in preparing her for the industry. “I still hear their words of wisdom and advice in my head when I come across a difficult scenario.” Johns is happy that many of her fellow graduates have also gone on to positions in top arts organisations. “It’s our own little arts management community. We see each other often and it’s nice to be able to get together and talk shop over a few drinks.” The budding casting director thinks one of the most important skills actors need is to know the industry ‘inside out’. Johns believes it serves actors well to be aware of what is happening on Australian screens, the people who produce the work and their competition in the market. “It’s also important to embrace and maintain your individuality. Casting directors and producers are always looking for someone unique who can bring something different to a role they may not have envisaged before. And don’t take yourself too seriously...!”
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-year Diploma in Musical Theatre and will introduce a Diploma of Specialist Make-up Services and a Diploma of Live Production and Technical Services in 2016. These 8-12 month vocational courses provide a great steppingstone for further study as well as the Edwina. skills needed for students to go on to entry-level positions in their chosen NIDA’s strong ties to the arts and field. entertainment industries also help For Diploma of Musical Theatre students forge careers across a whole range of areas in Australia, including student Vivienne Awosoga, the new theatre, screen, live events and music. course was a perfect fit. “Musical Theatre has always been a passion of One of the unique projects NIDA students have the chance to be a part mine so it has been an absolute pleasure to be taught by such an array of is an annual collaboration with triple j Unearthed. Each year NIDA and of incredible tutors with so much Unearthed team-up to give seven knowledge and experience to share – I cannot wait to complete the second lucky bands or musicians the chance half of my diploma,” commented Vivienne. As part of the centre’s strong focus on preparing students for the ever-changing arts and entertainment industry, NIDA also offers the chance to study in one of Australia’s best performing arts campuses with five theatres and state-of-the-art technology and facilities. The NIDA Graduate School is the next exciting step in NIDA’s and Australia’s performing arts evolution. Set to open in 2016, the Graduate School will comprise a two-storey extension to NIDA’s existing campus in Kensington and will be a creative hub for developing Australia’s future creative leaders and their work. to have a professional music video This landmark project will also see produced by NIDA’s directing an expansion of NIDA’s Masters students. Working with design and courses to offer artists from Australia production students, each director has and around the world the chance to just $200 and two days to create a study areas such as cultural leadership, unique music video for their band/ design for performance and advanced artist that is then aired around the acting techniques. country on Rage. The Graduate School is just one of As Head of Directing Dr Egil Kipste said, this unique experience provides a the many ways NIDA continues to great learning experience for both the invest in its training and stay at the forefront of performing arts education musicians and the NIDA students. “From working to a strict budget and around the world. Whether you are a timeline to managing the collaborative budding artist or an established professional, NIDA is dedicated to the process, this opportunity will play a future success of its graduates. big role in their professional development and help the students to navigate a successful career,” commented Dr Kipste. For more information about courses Building on the success of the and how to apply, please visit centre’s popular Bachelor and Masters nida.edu.au/courses. courses, in 2015 NIDA launched a one
Shape Your Creative Future With NIDA Are you looking to explore a future in the creative industries next year? Then the National Institute of Dramatic Art is the place for you. With a variety of study options, unique industry access, expert teaching staff and state-of-the-art equipment, NIDA is the perfect place for passionate and dedicated artists looking to take the next step in their career. As well as NIDA’s world-acclaimed Acting degree, there are Diploma, Bachelor and Masters courses on offer across a range of disciplines including screen acting, musical theatre, costume, design, directing, properties and objects, staging, specialist make-up, technical theatre, stage management and writing for performance. No matter your interest, Australia’s leading centre for education and training in the performing arts has something for you. For more than 50 years, NIDA has educated Australia’s greatest performers, artists and creative professionals for stage and screen by delivering innovative, practice-based programs. These programs include unique opportunities for students, like working with industry guests and professional work experience placements. Costume student Edwina James was fortunate to travel to the UK to be part of the team creating the costumes for the upcoming film The Huntsman, starring Australian Chris Hemsworth, under the guidance of award-winning designer Colleen Atwood. This work experience was invaluable to Edwina’s craft and future career. “My time working on The Huntsman was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that not only gave me the chance to put my skills and knowledge into practice, it provided invaluable insight to the wonderful world of costume,” commented
32 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
NIDA’s The Roaring Girl. Image courtesy of NIDA. Photo: Lisa Maree Williams.
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Australian Institute of Music (02) 9219 5444 enquiries@aim.edu.au www.aim.edu.au Bachelor of Entertainment Management - 2 years This course combines excellent business management education with a creative focus. Course content meets the demands of today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving entertainment industry, examining both the artistic and the commercial sides of the business, as well as exploring the dynamic between the two. The degree has a strong focus on the commercial music industry, but also considers the not-for-profit sector. www.aim.edu.au/courses/entertainment-management/bachelor-of-entertainment#sthash.7sckbH41.dpuf Bachelor of Music This degree combines music business AND musical instrument studies. The Entertainment Management teaching staff of AIM are active and successful music industry and entertainment management specialists, with extensive national and international experience. They are highly respected individuals who are passionate about developing talented industry professionals. www.aim.edu.au/courses/entertainment-management#sthash.UJjLc0F3.dpuf University of Technology Sydney School of Business Certificate in Executive Management (Short Course) www.business.uts.edu.au/acem/pdfs/ecem_sydney_brochure_for_web_march12.pdf TAFE Queensland Gold Coast (07) 5581 8300 http://tafegoldcoast.edu.au Diploma of Music Business Give students a thorough grounding in the business side of the music industry. Whether you would like to manage a band or music company this course will assist you in living your dream! This accredited program is designed to give music professionals the working knowledge to take their place in the music business industry.is delivered by experienced and qualified teachers who are actively involved in the music industry. http://tafegoldcoast.edu.au/course/creative-arts/11528/diploma-music-business Queensland University of Technology (07) 3138 2000 askqut@qut.edu.au Bachelor of Creative Industries - 3 years full-time This unique course provides diverse knowledge, creativity and practical skills across a range of industries and practice to prepare you for a career as a creative professional. Core units provide well-developed communication, project management and digital media skills, an up-to-date insight into the creative economy, and an appreciation of creative collaboration. Your Work Integrated Learning (WIL) units in your final year will prepare you for your creative career as an entrepreneur, consultant, project manager or creative professional, or give you the hunger for higher degree research. In addition to your creative industries major (13 to choose from) you select a second major to develop a significant depth of knowledge and skill in two discipline areas, including options in business or design. Alternatively, you might prefer to develop a breadth of knowledge across three discipline areas by adding two minors to your chosen creative industries major. Your combination of study options makes your course unique. www.qut.edu.au/study/courses/bachelor-of-creative-industries Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Creative Industries - 4 years full-time This double degree provides additional Business studies to your Bachelor of Creative Industries, giving you even more flexibility in your career options. Graduates have gone on to work in a diverse range of interesting careers, taking on positions such as: entertainment industries producer events manager entertainment marketing professional www.qut.edu.au/study/courses/bachelor-of-businessbachelor-of-creative-industries Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Creative Industries - 4 years 34 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
University of South Australia Business School (08) 8302 0935 kellie.willason@unisa.edu.au Graduate Diploma and Masters in Cultural Management. In the Graduate Diploma, students will cover arts law, marketing, finance, strategic management, people management, grant writing, managing boards, leadership in the arts, introduction to cultural policy, business planning and other contemporary management issues. The Master program builds on the Graduate Diploma and can be completed by undertaking additional course work. UniSA graduates work in many and varied positions both in Australia and internationally. Management positions in museums, galleries, symphony orchestras, ballet companies, opera companies, theatre companies and arts centres and festivals are just some of the exciting opportunities open to graduates. http://programs.unisa.edu.au/public/pcms/program.aspx?pageid=98&sid=608 Music SA (08) 8218 8444 daniel@musicsa.com.au Certificate III In Music Business http://musicsa.com.au/articles/coursesart/2012/bandmanagement.aspx Victoria University (03) 9919 6100 Bachelor of Business (Music) This course will help you gain a comprehensive understanding of the business of music. You will learn to plan and promote music events, arrange and negotiate deals, and gain a full understanding of the nature of music copyrights. With strong connections with current industry participants, the Bachelor of Business Music Industry specialisation is widely recognised for producing graduates with business acumen and entrepreneurial flair. The Bachelor of Business gives you options to tailor your learning to your specific needs. All students study a common first year which is complemented in second and third years by specialisations in either two business disciplines, or a single specialisation and an area of study. www.vu.edu.au/courses/bachelor-of-business-music-industry-bbus-bspmui Australian Institute of Music enquiries@aim.edu.au www.aim.edu.au Bachelor of Entertainment Management - 2 years This course combines excellent business management education with a creative focus. Course content meets the demands of today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving entertainment industry, examining both the artistic and the commercial sides of the business, as well as exploring the dynamic between the two. The degree has a strong focus on the commercial music industry, but also considers the not-for-profit sector. www.aim.edu.au/courses/entertainment-management/bachelor-of-entertainment#sthash.7sckbH41.dpuf WAAPA Edith Cowan University 134 ECU (134 328) Outside Australia: (61 8) 6304 0000 enquiries@ecu.edu.au Bachelor of Arts Management WAAPA offers the only full-time undergraduate Arts Management course in Australasia. The course has an international reputation for excellence built on the success of its graduates who have found work as arts managers in events, production, venues, finance, sponsorship, marketing, publicity, promotion and human resources, both in Australia and internationally. Provides a foundation in business theory and practice for the arts industry. The program is specifically industry focused and designed to give students the knowledge and skills to work in a diverse range of art forms and organisations including theatre companies, venues, dance companies, exhibitions, galleries, concerts and festivals. www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 35
An emphasis on academic study and experiential practice gives students the opportunity to apply theory to practical situations and workplace scenarios by developing their understanding of art forms and processes within various arts organisations. By studying at WAAPA, students have opportunities for practical experience and during the later stages of the degree, practical experience is gained in the wider arts industry. It is expected that graduates from the course will possess a high level of management expertise, together with leadership abilities, human resources skills and a broad knowledge of the arts industry which will enable them to function as Arts Managers in an intelligent, effective and sensitive manner. Admission Requirements Applications are submitted to both TISC and WAAPA (via the Online Application System). Admission is based on an interview. Individual interviews are conducted to provide information about the applicant’s experiences, motivation and goals. It is important that prospective students already have an interest and background in the arts as well as a commitment to extending their knowledge in management and the arts In general. Careers: General Manager, Arts Marketing Manager, Audience Development Manager, Sponsorship Manager, Business Development Manager, Communications Manager, Program Manager, Venue Manager, Producer, Events Coordinator Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School +64 4 381 9251 Fax: +64 4 389 4996 apply@toiwhakaari.ac.nz www.toiwhakaari.ac.nz Bachelor of Performing Arts (Management) - 3 years full-time The first year of the course focuses on key areas in theatre production. Students gain basic skills in a broad range of production areas including lighting design and operation, costume, sound mechanics and design, set building and design, production and stage management, stage mechanics and AV. In the second year there is a focus on developing a deeper understanding of process through a series of elective units. Students apply their skills to production activity; reinforced with block courses and industry secondments. The third year is dedicated to developing business and leadership skills in a range of management, leadership and administration areas. This includes events, stage, production and financial management and performance research and development. Prerequisites: There are no educational prerequisites however a good level of physical fitness is essential. Entry is by application form and interview. www.toiwhakaari.ac.nz/study-at-toi-whakaari/performing-arts-management Toi Whakaari NZ Drama School’s Into The Woods. Photo: Philip Merry.
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Circus
Ariel’s Dream (2009). NICA
NICA (03) 9214 6975 info@nica.com.au www.nica.com.au NICA’s courses are accredited by Swinburne University of Technology. CRICOS provider code 00111D TOID 3059 Bachelor of Circus Arts (BA-CIRCA1) - 3 years full-time NICA's core program is a three year full-time Bachelor of Circus Arts degree course. It is the highest level of accredited circus training available in Australia. Through the vocationally-oriented degree, NICA strives to produce highly employable, skilled and creative artists who will be respected nationally and internationally in the global circus and physical theatre industry. Subject areas: Circus basics such as tumbling, handstands, flexibility, manipulation, aerial and partner work. Group acts: adagio, group aerial, group juggling, hoop-diving and teeterboard. Specialty apparatus Fitness, strength and conditioning. Performance skills: acting, improvisation, mask, clown and voice. Movement skills: ballet, contemporary dance, hip-hop, jazz and contact dance. History and culture of circus. Circus business and career management. Technical aspects of circus production, equipment and safety in the circus environment. Basic anatomy, physiology, nutrition and sports psychology. Prerequisites: The successful completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Applicants should have a background in performing arts, physical theatre, youth circus, dance, acrobatic sports or gymnastics. Entry into NICA is by audition, interview and successful completion of a medical assessment. Applicants must apply to audition. Certificate IV in Circus Arts (10111NAT) - 1 year full-time The Certificate IV in Circus Arts provides training in preliminary level circus skills and knowledge. This course is suitable for aspiring circus artists seeking a qualification and as a pathway for further learning. The Certificate IV can be used for preparation for the Bachelor of Circus Arts course. It is also suitable for those teaching in social or community circuses, www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 37
who wish to acquire more specific circus skills training. This training may be delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding. Some students may be eligible for a Government subsidised place. Subject areas: Circus basics such as tumbling, handstands, flexibility, manipulation, aerial and partner work. Circus group acts such as adagio, group aerial, group juggling, hoop-diving. Preliminary circus specialties may include but not limited to; static and swinging trapeze, tissu, rope, handstands, tightwire, contortion, Chinese pole, rolla bolla, juggling, hula hoops, and clowning. Fitness, strength and conditioning for circus performers. Performance and movement skills. Heritage and traditions of circus and application to circus practice. Safety in the circus environment. Basic anatomy, physiology, and nutrition. Prerequisites: Applicants for the Certificate IV in Circus Arts are expected to have: A demonstrated capacity in learning, reading, writing, oracy and numeracy competencies to Level 3 of the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF); successful completion of the Certificate III in Circus Arts (10110NAT); or proven ability to undertake circus arts study at AQF Certificate IV level through undertaking an audition to demonstrate technical and artistic skills in the following areas (to NICA Circus Arts Education and Training Benchmark Introductory Elementary Level E): fitness and conditioning, flexibility, handstands, tumbling, strength, manipulation, demonstration of body alignment, and performance skills, and participants must be physically able to undertake the qualification. Provision of medical evidence of suitability for circus training may be required. Certificate III in Circus Arts (10110NAT) - 2 years part time The Certificate III in Circus Arts offers young people the opportunity to gain a nationally-recognised qualification in Circus Arts. The course provides basic training in contemporary circus arts for students who wish to pursue a career as a circus performer. The Certificate III can be used for preparation for Certificate IV in Circus Arts and as an entry level qualification in circus arts. To be considered for the Certificate III in Circus Arts, students must plan to combine NICA training with Year 11 or 12 studies at the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School (VCASS). Subject areas: Circus basics such as tumbling, handstands, flexibility, manipulation, aerial and partner work. Fitness, strength and conditioning for circus performers. Performance and movement skills for circus performers. Prerequisites: Applicants for the Certificate III in Circus Arts are expected to: Have completed Year 10, and undertake an audition that includes the demonstration of basic technical and/or artistic skills in some of the following areas: flexibility, handstands, tumbling, strength, manipulation, demonstration of body alignment, performance skills, and be physically able to undertake the qualification - provision of medical evidence of suitability for circus training may be required. WA Circus School (08) 9335 5370 info@circuswa.com www.circuswa.com Acrobatics, Aerials, and Manipulation Duration: Classes and courses vary in length from 1-2 hours. Workshops vary in length from 14 hours. Subject Areas: The WA Circus School Inc. (WACS) is a not for profit organisation, based in Old Customs House, 8 Phillimore Street, Fremantle. We aim to promote circus skills in the community both as a means to improve health and also as form of artistic expression. We run classes, courses, and workshops for all ages and all abilities from 3+ years to professional performers. The basis of all our classes is about the spirit of community, skill exploration, development, and having fun! At WACS, we believe in allowing students to flourish at their own pace in a safe, non competitive, and nurturing environment. Students have the opportunity to learn a variety of circus skills and may have the showcase opportunities throughout the year. Prerequisites: Most of our classes, courses, and workshops have little to no prerequisites other than the desire to have fun and try something new, however some classes and courses do have strict prerequisites which are noted in the class descriptions on our website. 38 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
Backstage at the 2015 ACA showcase. Photo: Caitlin Withers.
Costumes/Props/ Sets Design and Making
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Cutting It Across The Tasman Catherine Creighton and Victoria Gridley both moved to Wellington from Australia at the beginning of 2015 to follow their creative passion for textiles and to study Costume Construction at Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School. “Within the first two months I could already see a difference in my work, in the way that it was done and presented,” says Vic. Costume students collaborate with the New Zealand School of Dance on their major performance events, as well as being actively involved in the shows and performance projects at Toi
Whakaari. In addition, the annual Costume Showcase is an opportunity for the graduating costumiers to work on a live performance event that showcases their own major works. The first year Costume Construction students are currently working on Restoration period pieces. “You’re producing work that you get to see up on stage, what it looks like in a performance environment and moving around,” says Cat. “The learning environment at Toi Whakaari is completely different from anything else I’ve experienced and it feels like it prepares you more for the real world than any of the universities I’ve been
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to,” adds Vic. Cat and Vic both started out making Cosplay costumes before going to Melbourne to get degrees in science and animation respectively. Part of the process “I find the structures the school uses to teach really grounding. It’s a strong base that applies to everything,” comments Vic on the collaborative teaching environment at Toi Whakaari. “The course is a bit like an internship in a way; you’re learning as well as creating work that is used by the rest of the school, which is awesome.” Twice a week the future costumiers join other students from the Acting, Design, Technology and Management
courses for kōiwi. It’s where the students and staff gather in one of the big studios to practice the skills of collaboration and responsibility. It’s a way for Toi Whakaari to keep creating a culture that enables the teaching and learning to be ongoing and life giving. “The way kōiwi makes the school work together has affected the way we learn; we listen and we do, we respond as necessary to the work we have to do and just get on with it, which is really good,” says Vic. Fitting in Cat and Vic feel at home in New Zealand. “Everyone is just so polite and giving here. I haven’t met a mean Kiwi yet,” says Vic. Both students have been juggling school and work to get by. It’s not just about money for the necessities according to Cat, “but just meeting new people and learning different skills, so that I can combine all my work skills and my school skills and become a more well-rounded, mature adult.” The Diploma in Costume Construction is the only course in New Zealand that specialises in costume for stage and
screen. It’s taught by some of today’s best industry professionals and aims to provide students with skills in all forms of costume construction and production, leading to employment in theatre, film and allied industries.
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NIDA (02) 9697 7600 info@nida.edu.au Bachelor of Fine Arts (Costume) - 3 years NIDA’s Bachelor of Fine Arts (Costume) is an immersive practice-based course offering education and training in costume construction, management and related period and social research. Students are introduced to the techniques required to produce creative works integral to becoming a costume professional, including costume construction, tailoring, pattern making, period cutting, draping, costume management, millinery and leatherwork. As they progress to making fully tailored and more advanced garments for full-scale productions, students expand the depth of their collaboration with the designer and performer, applying their skills in increasingly complex situations including practical workshops, exhibitions, installations and research projects. New and non-traditional materials and techniques are explored, and students gain experience of how to manage budgets and how to supervise a costume department. The course prepares students for careers as a costume maker, costume supervisor, assistant costume supervisor, costume cutter, theatrical tailor, buyer, finisher or milliner in the arts and entertainment industries. www.nida.edu.au/costume Bachelor of Fine Arts (Design for Performance) - 3 years Students of the Bachelor of Fine Arts (Design for Performance) learn in a collaborative environment, developing knowledge and skills to equip them to respond to increasingly complex design briefs across the duration of the course. Students acquire knowledge and skills, and the ability to apply these, through practical workshops, conceptual and realised projects, major production designs, exhibitions and installations. Recognising that a professional designer requires knowledge and ability across a wide variety of skills, students undertake specialist education and training in set design, costume design, the design of properties and lighting design, as well as accumulating technical skills in model-making, rendering, virtual visualisation techniques, manual drafting, computer aided drafting (CAD) and life drawing. They also investigate the social, historical and cultural contexts informing contemporary art, architecture and design, the history of costume and clothing, and colour theory. The course equips students with the specific knowledge and skills to pursue careers as designers and assistant designers of scenery, costumes, properties and lighting in the arts and entertainment industries, including theatre, opera, dance, film and television, and events. www.nida.edu.au/design Bachelor of Fine Arts (Properties and Objects) - 3 years NIDA’s Bachelor of Fine Arts (Properties and Objects) introduces students to prop-making and object-making techniques through education and training in life drawing, metalwork, woodwork, sculpture, mould making, pattern making, scenic art, technical drawing, puppetry, prosthetics, electronics, joinery, set dressing, film studies and model making. Students are also introduced to communication, presentation, research and self-evaluation techniques as well as financial management skills, sustainable practice and the fundamentals of work health and safety (WHS). As they progress through the course, students explore areas such as costume jewellery, architectural models, computer-aided design, graphics software and 3D modelling for digital manufacturing. This course equips students with the specific knowledge and skills to pursue careers as makers of properties, models and bespoke objects, and managers of these fields in the arts and entertainment industries, such as theatre, opera, dance, film, television, exhibitions and special events. www.nida.edu.au/properties Bachelor of Fine Arts (Staging) - 3 years NIDA’s Bachelor of Fine Arts (Staging) is the only degree of its kind offered in Australia, and one of only a few available worldwide. Through this course, students study current staging practice, stage engineering, stage rigging, risk and project management, as well as develop a broader theoretical and contextual knowledge of theatre, arts and culture. The strength of this course is the breadth of its content, equipping students with an understanding of all aspects of staging in terms of creating a production, in addition to specialised skills in areas such as engineering, automation and rigging. Students acquire knowledge and skills, and the ability to apply these, through practical workshops, conceptual and realised projects, major productions, exhibitions and installations. The course equips students to pursue careers as technical designers, technical managers, assistant technical managers, construction managers, technical project managers, set builders, staging technicians and mechanists in the arts and entertainment industries, including for theatre, opera, dance, film and television, special events and product launches. www.nida.edu.au/staging 42 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
Victorian College of the Arts The University of Melbourne 13 MELB Bachelor of Fine Arts (Production) Students major in one of three areas: Performance Technology; Stage Management; or Design Realisation, whilst still being exposed to all aspects of performance production - set, costume, lighting, multimedia and sound technology and design, workshop and costume construction, and stage and production management. Intensive delivery of skills and practice takes place through studio based training and direct application of these skills to rehearsals and productions. The course provides students with the opportunity to participate in productions staged within the VCA - in the School of Performing Arts (collaborations with Dance and Theatre) and Music Theatre projects; and beyond the VCA through projects and secondments with professional companies. Graduates of this course have a tradition of high employment success. Graduates demonstrate capacities for artistic imagination, creativity, transformation and interpretation. They work at various levels, both as an individual and as a team member, in a wide variety of visual/performing arts environments including: work on large-scale events; major festivals; theatre, dance and music theatre productions. http://vca.unimelb.edu.au/bfaproduction Masters of Fine Arts Production http://vca.unimelb.edu.au/mfaproduction WAAPA Edith Cowan University PH: 134 ECU (134 328) enquiries@ecu.edu.au Advanced Diploma of Live Production and Management Services Diploma of Live Production and Technical Services WAAPA’s Production and Design programs prepare students in a range of interpretive and technical theatre disciplines through teaching methods designed to recognise and refine the skills and potential of each individual. Unparalleled in any other Australasian arts training institution, WAAPA provides Production and Design students with the greatest diversity of ‘on the job’ theatrical experiences. Our students have access to simulated industry training in the design, construction and management of the Academy’s annual repertoire of 30 plus productions, utilising our seven diverse performance venues, as well as numerous external performance spaces. WAAPA’s professionally staffed and equipped workshop and wardrobe facilities, along with state-of-the-art lighting and sound studios, give students immediate ‘hands-on’ access to all production development, construction and staging processes associated with the most up-to-date industry expectation and practice. Incorporating a provocative mix of national and international professional directors, teachers and supervisors, WAAPA’s year-long season of drama, music theatre, dance, opera, films and jazz, classical and contemporary music concerts gives our Production and Design graduates the winning edge in preparation for a seamless transition into a wide range of careers within the creative and technical industries both here and abroad. Prerequisites: Applications are submitted directly to WAAPA via the Online Admission System. Admission is based on portfolio and interview. Advanced Diploma of Live Production For Theatre and Events (Design) - 3 years This course provides training in the principles, techniques and processes required in designing for live theatrical performance. Design studio classes in each year level expose students to increasingly challenging design projects, thereby providing the opportunity to refine processes in visualization, script analysis, research, idea generation, concept development and design presentation. Final year productions give students the opportunity to present their designs for scenery, props and costumes to the public through the Academy’s annual performance program. www.waapa.ecu.edu.au/courses-and-admissions/our-courses/disciplines/design Props & Scenery - 3 years The Props and Scenery course is available to those students who demonstrate potential for, and wish to acquire expertise in, the technical and production aspects of the entertainment industry. The program is structured to provide skills and experience consistent with the growing needs of this industry. The Props and Scenery course includes aspects of scenery and properties construction, scenic painting, metal fabrication, upholstery and technical and general drawing. Students www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 43
gain experience in handling scenery, scenery flying and the general backstage skills of the mechanist as they are closely involved in the practical work of live production including film and television on a regular basis. www.waapa.ecu.edu.au/courses-and-admissions/our-courses/disciplines/props-and-scenery Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School +64 4 381 9251 Fax: +64 4 389 4996 apply@toiwhakaari.ac.nz www.toiwhakaari.ac.nz Bachelor of Design (Stage and Screen) - 3 years full-time The first year of the course introduces the practice of design for performance, encouraging research, critical skills and independent learning. Design skills are developed through a series of studio projects alongside classes and workshops. The second year extends the skills necessary for more complex design projects. Students embark on collaborative work, co-designing and working across disciplines. Through Toi Whakaari’s close connections with industry practitioners, students make good contacts beyond the classroom, advancing their knowledge and skills through production, projects, supervised research and industry secondments. The third year is an outward looking year and preparation for a sustainable career. Students consolidate their independent design practice, testing their abilities as leaders and collaborators. Students initiate their own independent research project and complete a major realised design for either a theatre production or a film. Prerequisites: There are no educational prerequisites however a basic level of physical fitness is essential. Entry is by portfolio and interview. www.toiwhakaari.ac.nz/study-at-toi-whakaari/design-for-stage-screen/ Diploma in Costume Construction (For Film, Theatre and Allied Industries) (Costumes) - 2 years full-time During the first year, students take workshops in sewing, pattern making, draping, costume props and accessories, maskmaking and millinery. They take classes in history of costume, fabric dyeing and printing. The students use industrial sewing equipment and work to the standards of a professional company as costumiers on Toi Whakaari productions; including fitting, dressing and maintaining costumes. During their second year, students learn to interpret costume drawings, realise design concepts and work alongside student designers to supervise and produce costumes for Toi Whakaari productions and related performance projects. They advance their work in pattern cutting, costume construction and other specialist skills and prepare a major work and portfolio to exhibit at the annual Costume Showcase. Costume students attend a range of classes that extend their knowledge and understanding of the production process, including production management, business and financial management, and occupational health and safety. Prerequisites: There are no educational prerequisites however a basic level of sewing proficiency is essential. Entry is by portfolio and interview. www.toiwhakaari.ac.nz/study-at-toi-whakaari/costume-construction
Toi Whakaari NZ Drama School’s costume showcase. Photo: Philip Merry.
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Dance
Saturday Night Fever.
Wesley Institute (02) 9819 8888 info@wi.edu.au www.wi.edu.au/courses/performing-arts-courses/dance-course Bachelor of Dance - 3 years full time Up to 6 years part time Associate Degree of Dance - 2 years full time Up to 4 years part time. Wesley Institute’s Bachelor of Dance is the only performance-based dance degree in NSW. Offering professional training in dance technique, choreography, production and performance in all major genres, as well as body mechanics, body science and complimentary movement studies, the degree prepares students for careers in Theatre and Teaching. Headed by teacher, director and choreographer Adele Hyland, and taught on campus in Drummoyne by renowned industry professionals, the course represents an intensive and highly relevant combination of practical and theoretical training. Students exiting the Bachelor of Dance after the first two years of the degree will be awarded the Associate Degree of Dance. Diploma of Dance Brent Street 1300 013 708 info@brentstreet.com.au www.brentstreet.com.au/professionals#mt Diploma Of Dance (Elite Performance) - 1 year full-time Subject Areas: This audition only one year, full-time course offers passionate, young contemporary dancers aspiring to one day dance in a professional company or commercial dancers with aspirations in an area of specialisation a boost to their career. While the Certificate IV in Dance is not a pre-requisite for the Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance), students wishing to audition for the Diploma are expected to already be achieving at Certificate IV level. Diploma students will usually be in their second year of a training pathway. This program provides a greater depth (Continued on page 48) www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 45
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Online extras! Check out a showreel of Spectrum productions. Scan the QR code or visit https://youtu.be/gOVDZ0QWvaw
Spectrum Dance
Where Small Classes Equal Big Time Stars Melbourne’s Spectrum Dance is celebrating another group of students gaining employment around the world, on the high seas and on land. Former student Tyrone Anthony will be a featured dancer with Caribbean Cruises travelling throughout Asia. Laura Parker is currently sailing the seas as a lead dancer in their aerial show and Saturday Night Fever The Musical. First year student Stephanie Quittner will join the Entertainment Store in their tour of the Middle East as Baby Bop in the Barney show. Spectrum Dance is committed to cultivating talent and providing personalized classes that allow students to excel in all facets of performance. Directors Trish Squire-Rogers (The Footy Show, Melbourne Storm Cheerleaders) and Katie Rappel (World Expo ‘88, Victorian State Opera) strive to create the next generation of Australian stars within a safe and supportive environment. Class sizes are deliberately kept small. Spectrum Dance only accepts artists prepared to commit to their craft
and offers the chance to excel in every style of dance training to ensure healthy, happy and employable dancers at the completion of the course. Spectrum Dance offers students a variety of options in their education and future career from Certificates through to Diplomas, and leads directly into the Spectrum Talent Agency. The company says over 80% of students join the professional ranks of the performance industry through their inhouse talent agency. Students are offered the flexibility to work and study throughout the course. This comprises specialized programs that encapsulate more than the basics of dance training. In addition to the Certificate IV and Diploma (Elite Performance) in Dance, Spectrum also offers a Diploma in Musical Theatre headed by Stephen Wheat (Legally Blonde, Shout, Dusty) that encompasses the fundamentals of Drama, Singing and Dance (Accredited Qualifications are delivered in partnership with ATOD (RTO#31624). In conjunction with Yvette Lee, recognised internationally for her work
For more information about the Spectrum Dance courses and audition dates, head to spectrumdance.com.au choreographing on SYTYCD Australia, Moonshadow and Rock of Ages, and Kim Adam, described by the school as ‘Australia’s favourite pocket sized powerhouse dancer and choreographer’, Spectrum has many of Australia’s best professional performers guiding their students. With so many former (and current!) Spectrum Dance students obtaining professional contracts across the globe, there are increasingly more opportunities for employment closer to home, giving Australia a strong global presence. Former Spectrum Dance student Dakota Gordois and 3rd year student Breeana Davis were recently chosen to work with the original Pussycat Doll Robin Antin in a unique performance at Crown Casino Melbourne. At the Burwood studio, dancers will be nurtured, encouraged and given every opportunity to succeed. www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 47
(Continued from page 45)
of study in core specialisations and students will be partnered with a mentor to develop these throughout this intense year of training. www.brentstreet.com.au/dod2014 Certificate IV In Dance - 1 year full-time Subject Areas: The Certificate IV in Dance is a one year, full-time nationally recognised training course offered in triple threat and contemporary streams. Brent Street has offered a Certificate IV course for over 21 years. Graduates gain work all over Australia, Asia and Europe. They have also starred on Broadway and enjoyed long seasons performing in shows on London's West End as well as appearing in TV, film and on stage. Students studying the Certificate IV undertake training across a broad range of performing arts to develop the required skills in dance technique, staging and production of live theatre and commercial performance style and the best preparation for a career in this competitive industry. Prerequisites Acceptance into this course is by audition only. This course is open to students over the age of 17 who have completed Year 11 secondary education and have an interest and aptitude in the performing arts. www.brentstreet.com.au/certiv2014 Certificate IV In Dance Teaching And Management - 20 weeks (6 months) x 4 days per week (New for 2015!) Subject Areas: Learn how to teach DANCE! Get valuable ‘on the job training’ at Brent Street through a series of practice teaching sessions in our Petites and Young Performers Program where you will be guided in classroom and student management techniques as well as how to plan and implement great lessons that your students will love. For nearly 30 years Brent Street has been the place to learn how to become the best dancers, performers and choreographers. Now you have the chance to be trained in best dance teaching practice by our industry experts. www.brentstreet.com.au/certivdtandm2014 National College of Dance (RTO 91281) (02) 4952 9294 admin@nationalcollegeofdance.com www.nationalcollegeofdance.com Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance) (CUA50111) - 1 year Designed to prepare students for the next step in their dance career, this program is committed to providing the best dance education in the country. Our focus is choreography and performance, with leading artists and teachers mentoring students and producing them to naturally evolve into the wider national and international industry. With an approach on complete education, embracing the main genres of dance, this program prepares students for employment or future education. A typical week consisting of classes and daily mentoring in Classical Ballet, Contemporary, Body Conditioning, Classical and Contemporary repertoire, Choreography, Jazz, Pas de deux, privately choreographed solos, Dance History, Nutrition and Anatomy this course will commence students training toward preparing for a professional career in the industry. Prerequisites: Auditions held on Sunday 19th September. Students required to prepare a ballet solo (on Pointe) and a contemporary solo no less than 1 min long. Audition DVD’s accepted. Certificate IV in Dance (CUA40111) - 1 year Providing the finest career mentoring, dance training and academic tuition in the country this is the perfect platform to a performance career. The quality of our exceptionally experienced teachers, the design of our leading edge program and scheduling and purpose built studio facilities is what makes this the most advanced program within Australia. Our program is government approved with the opportunity to convert to a recognised ATAR score for future pursuits.With daily mentoring and a typical week consisting of classes in Classical Ballet, Contemporary, Body Conditioning, Classical and Contemporary repertoire, Choreography, Jazz, Pas de deux, privately choreographed solos, Dance History, Nutrition and Anatomy students will utilise their training toward preparing for a versatile career in the industry. Prerequisites: Auditions held on Sunday 19th September. Students required to prepare a ballet solo (on Pointe) and a contemporary solo no less than 1 min long. Audition DVD’s accepted. Intensive Training Program (ITP) - Year 9 and/or year 10 A leading edge bridging program specifically designed for students with the ability and aspirations of becoming a professional dancer but too young to commence full time training. The program provides the important link between 48 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
moving from part time evening classes to full time training. Your schedule will consist of 2 days of dance training and mentoring and 3 days of academic and dance studies. With academic studies fully Government Approved and conducted by Big Picture Education Australia, dance education is continued while still achieving Year 9 and 10 academic studies. Classes include daily ballet class and weekly classes in Contemporary, Jazz, Repertoire, Solo, Anatomy and Nutrition and Year 9 and 10 government approved dance elective. This program is a careful balance between dance and educational studies. Prerequisites: Auditions held on Sunday 19th September. Students required to prepare a ballet solo (on Pointe) and a contemporary solo no less than 1 min long. Audition DVD’s accepted. Urban Dance Centre (02) 9571 7099 info@urbandance.com.au www.urbandance.com.au Certificate IV in Performing Arts (69818) Duration: 1 year full time and follows the school calendar terms. The intensive training follows the normal school week from 8:30am to 4:30pm, Monday - Friday. Some weekends are required throughout the year to prepare for performances, workshops or other events. http://youtu.be/fngFRUpIfJ4 Subject Areas: Jazz, Ballet, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Lyrical, JFH, Tap, Acrobatics, Break dance, Kicks Turns Jumps, Pilates, Performance, Acting, Singing, Nutrition, Presentation, Mock Auditions CV/Resume/Audition Preparation, Head Shots and In-house Agency Auditions. UDC training focuses on individual performance and technique, audition preparation and professional live and film performances. Most importantly students have access to cutting edge Australian Industry professionals to international guests and the best Australian Dance Agents. http://urbandance.com.au/udc/courses/certificate-iv Village Performing Arts Centre 1300 788 440 info@villagepa.com www.villagepa.com Certificate IV in Performing Arts (Dance) (CUA40111) - 1 year The Village Full Time Program is a one-year intensive performing arts training course unique to the Village, covering all genres of Performing Arts. Course includes classes in, but not limited to: Jazz, Singing (Vocal Repertoire), Tap, Classical Ballet, Acting (TV/Film/Stage), Hip Hop/JFH, Musical Theatre, Lyrical, Contemporary, Acrobatics, Latin/Ballroom, Aerial (Silks, Trapeze). VPAC are currently Offering the Certificate IV in Performing Arts (Dance). Qualifications are delivered in partnership with the Australian Teachers of Dancing. (RTO# 31624) All classes are taught by the country’s best choreographers, directors, performers and teachers as well as specialty classes such as modelling, health and nutrition, audition technique and industry lectures. Village Performing Arts Centre boasts Australia’s Leading entertainment industry professionals as its teachers. Australian Performing Arts Network (02) 9209 3067 hamish@apan.net.au or olivia@apan.net.au www.apanacademy.com.au At APAN academy, we deliver state of the art, industry current performing arts skills and knowledge. APAN Academy delivers a multi-disciplinary training to produce triple threat performers whom are attractively employable within the industry. Dance Styles such as Hip Hop, Classical, Commercial Dance, Tap, Lyrical, Acting, Vocal, Musical Theatre, Conditioning, Performance, Nutrition, Independent Business studies and much more. Our trainers in all genres have a wide range of actual industry performance experience with many of our trainers having performed on International and National tours. We have trainers and teachers that know what the industry needs on a professional level and they give our students the very best of training that gives our students the greatest chance of success. Prerequisites: Auditions via group and singular auditions. Certificate II in Dance (CUA20113) - 12 months part time www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 49
Certificate II in Performing Arts (52620WA) - 12 months part time Certificate IV in Performing Arts (Musical Theatre) (52621) - 12 months full-time Certificate IV in Performing Arts (Commercial Dance) (52619WA) - 12 months full- time Diploma in Musical Theatre (CUA50213) - 12 months full- time Diploma in Dance (Elite Performance) (CUA50113) - 12 months full- time Queensland University of Technology (07) 3138 2000 askqut@qut.edu.au Bachelor of Fine Arts (Dance) - 3 years full-time The dance program at QUT leads the way in developing the creative passions of future dance professionals who aspire to careers outside of dance performance in fields such as dance teaching, choreography, research and academia, community arts practice, and arts management. Students are taught by an internationally recognised faculty of permanent staff and visiting specialists, and you will benefit from partnerships with organisations such as Expressions Dance Company, the Queensland Ballet and the Royal Academy of Dance (UK). Our graduates move into careers as dance teachers in schools (with a graduate-entry teacher education course), private studios, universities, and professional dance company education programs, as well as choreographers, dance researchers and academics, dance journalists, festival and community project directors and producers, independent dance practitioners, arts administrators, and dance health professionals (with further specialised training). www.qut.edu.au/study/study-areas/study-dance Bachelor of Fine Arts (Dance Performance) - 3 years full-time The dance performance program at QUT boasts an enviable reputation. It combines a rigorous fulltime dance training course with academic studies at degree level, and is designed for young aspiring dancers who enjoy being challenged, are passionate about a career as a dancer, and willing to commit their energies to full-time training at university level. This course offers intensive daily training in the core techniques of ballet and contemporary dance supported by weekly duo, pas de deux, pointe, male coaching classes, Pilates, yoga and alternative dance and body conditioning styles—making you internationally competitive. Technology is integrated with choreographic workshops including a broad spectrum of screen studies. You will benefit from partnerships with organisations such as Expressions Dance Company, the Queensland Ballet and the Royal Academy of Dance (UK). Many graduates achieve outstanding recognition as performers and choreographers throughout their careers throughout Australia and internationally in major professional dance companies, dance education organisations, musicals, commercial environments and as independent artists. Pathways exist to postgraduate study and this course can be followed with a graduate-entry teacher education program to allow you to become a qualified teacher. www.qut.edu.au/study/study-areas/study-dance Deakin University 1300 334 733 enquire@deakin.edu.au www.deakin.edu.au Bachelor of Creative Arts (Dance) - 3 years The Bachelor of Creative Arts (Dance) enables you to develop practical skills in contemporary technique and choreography, with theoretical studies in dance history, analysis and aesthetics. A production and research project in the final year will help you develop specific skills and place the work in a public context. www.deakin.edu.au/future-students/courses/course.php?course=A356 Box Hill Institute of TAFE 1300 BOX HILL (1300 269 445) info@boxhill.edu.au Diploma of Dance (Teaching and Management) www.bhtafe.edu.au/courses/local/Pages/DAN50.aspx 50 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
Victorian College of the Arts The University of Melbourne 13 MELB http://vca.unimelb.edu.au Bachelor of Fine Arts (Dance) - 3 years full-time The Bachelor of Fine Arts (Dance) builds on our international reputation for performance-focused dance training. It attracts highly motivated, disciplined and creative dancers who are interested in shaping the future of Australian dance. VCA Dance offers a vibrant and simulating atmosphere in which dancers are trained for the technical demands and creative challenges of careers in dance. The course develops technically strong, kinaesthically aware dance artists through specialist training in contemporary dance, classical ballet, dance science and somatic practices, choreography and performance. New works by professional Australian and international choreographers provide invaluable performance experience and interaction with the dance profession. Graduates of the program work as dancers and choreographers in Australian and international contexts. https://vca.unimelb.edu.au/study/degrees/bachelor-of-fine-arts-dance/overview Bachelor of Fine Arts (Dance) (Honours) - 1 year full-time The program provides an opportunity for graduates from the Victorian College of the Arts’ Bachelor of Fine Arts (Dance) and dance graduates of other institutions to deepen their knowledge and dance experience by undertaking a specialised advanced program in a fourth year of study. The course extends students’ technical facility, artistic sensibility and creative capacities to deepen their knowledge of dance through artistic mentorship and academic supervision. There are opportunities to perform and create new work, independently or in collaboration with others. The degree will introduce students to practice-based research and to a range of research methodologies. Students will undertake a major creative project and related research paper. The program prepares you for work as a professional practising dance artist or for dance research with a direct pathway to a Masters Research degree. https://vca.unimelb.edu.au/study/degrees/bachelor-of-fine-arts-dance-honours/overview Diploma in Performance Creation Postgraduate Diploma in Performance Creation (Choreography) The Postgraduate Diploma in Performance Creation brings together choreographers, directors, designers, and animateurs in a program which enables distinct discipline specialisations as well as collaborative and interdisciplinary projects through common subject areas. The course is focused on nurturing and developing arts practitioners who will contribute through leadership, research and performance development to Australian culture in the arts. This is an intensive practicebased graduate coursework degree, taking one year of full-time study with streams available in Animateuring, Choreography, Directing, Design (Set and Costume), Lighting Design, and Sound Design. http://vca.unimelb.edu.au/pgdippc Master of Choreography The Master of Choreography gives students the chance to engage deeply in dance-making process, practice and research to refine and strengthen their choreographic voice and individual artistic vision. The course provides a framework to acquire skills in choreography, to develop an understanding of theoretical frameworks, to evaluate and critique dance performance, and to foster the capacity to evaluate, discriminate and make informed choices as part of choreographic process and practice. The Master of Choreography is a graduate coursework degree taken over one year of full-time study. Admission is based on completion of four years of undergraduate study in dance or a relevant field. The four subject areas are Process and Practice, Performance and Research Approaches and individual practice-based subjects, Project A and Project B. http://vca.unimelb.edu.au/mchor The Australian Ballet School (03) 9669 2807 ask@australianballetschool.com.au Level 4 Level 4 is currently the first year of full-time training. It is offered alongside academic year 8 or 9 at the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School (VCASS). Students in Level 4 are expected to achieve well in their academic studies as well as consolidate and expand their technical and artistic dance skills. Level 5 & 6: Diploma of Dance The levels 5 & 6 comprise the Diploma of Dance. This is an accredited qualification studied in conjunction with year 10 and year 11 academic studies including allied subjects such as Music, Performance Psychology, Nutrition and Cultural Studies. www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 51
Level 7: Advanced Diploma of Dance Students in Level 7 enrol in the Advanced Diploma of Dance, a qualification combining comprehensive dance training with a strong onsite academic programme. The course focus is on technical training and artistic development, preparing students for the dance profession. Students also complete their secondary schooling, gaining the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE). Level 8: Graduate Diploma in Classical Ballet Level 8 students enrol in the accredited Graduate Diploma of Classical Ballet. This qualification prepares students for the dance profession at a virtuoso level by refining their dance technique and developing their professional skills through career development activities and performances, including a secondment with The Australian Ballet’s Dancers Company. www.australianballetschool.com.au/index.html Dance World (03) 9696 2943 info@danceworldstudios.com Dance World Studios, a division of APO Arts Academy, provides industry focused training in the areas of Musical Theatre and Dance. Courses have a strong focus on practical components and are performance based; supported by allied studies and theoretical units. On completion of their training, our students will have the option of entering the professional industry or pursuing further training at higher levels. In either case, we provide the training, facilities, staff and resources to assist students in realising their own potential. Advanced Diploma Of Dance (Elite Performance) - 2 years full-time Diploma Of Dance (Elite Performance) - 2 years full-time Diploma Of Dance (Classical Ballet) (Elite Performance) - 2 years full-time Certificate IV In Dance - 1 year full-time Certificate III In Dance - 1 year part-time Certificate II In Dance - 1 year part-time www.danceworldstudios.com/FullTimeDanceCourses.html Dance Factory (03) 9429 9492 dancefac@netspace.net.au www.dancefactory.com.au All courses are accredited with ASQA and CRICOS for international students, and as such open a range of State and Federal support to students, as well as a recognised higher education pathway. Dance Factory graduates are performing across Australia, Asia, the West End, New York, cruise ships, Universal Studios and Disneyland, not to mention teaching, choreographing and producing across Australia and internationally. Certificate II in Dance (CUA20113) - 6 months full time or 1 year part time Certificate III in Dance (CUA30113) - 1 year full time or 2 years part time Certificate III in Assistant Dance Teaching (CUA30313) - 1 year full time or 2 years part time Certificate IV in Dance (CUA40113) - 1 year full time or 2 years part time Certificate IV in Dance Teaching & Management (CUA40313) - 1 year full time or 2 years part time Diploma of Musical Theatre (CUA50213) - 1 year full time or 2 years part time Diploma of Dance Teaching & Management (CUA50313) - 1 year full time or 2 years part time Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance) (CUA50113)
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Spectrum Dance 0433 733 187 (03) 9830 6588 ftc@spectrumdance.com.au www.spectrumdance.com.au Spectrum Dance offers a comprehensive Full Time Performing Arts Program that specialises in the performance and career development of artists. Spectrum Dance provides students the opportunity to excel through specialised teaching techniques whilst focusing on individual development. Our course will develop and advance dance techniques in all genres, build performance skills and provide opportunities to engage in the entertainment industry. Throughout the program, students will become proficient in the arts of singing, dancing and acting. In addition to the Full Time Performing Arts Program students have the option of three nationally recognised accredited certificates to choose from. These courses are offered in partnership with the Australian Teachers of Dancing (RTO#31624). If a student chooses to select an accreditation option they may be eligible for government funding. Nationally recognised accreditation Certificate IV in Dance (CUA40113) Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance) (CUA50111) WAAPA Edith Cowan University 134 ECU (134 328) (08) 6304 0000 enquiries@ecu.edu.au Bachelor of Arts (Dance) Advanced Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance) Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance) WAAPA’s Dance department prepares classical and contemporary artists of international standing through teaching methods designed to develop and refine the skills of each individual. Our courses offer a breadth that is unique to WAAPA and dance lecturers are continually assessing how best to prepare students for a seamless transition into a wide range of careers within the profession. All dance programs are intensive and performance based, with students averaging 35-40 contact hours per week, with special coaching programs designed for both men and women. Within each course, students have a degree of flexibility to choose and combine the mix that is best suited to their individual talents and aspirations. In addition to the highest calibre of daily tuition from WAAPA’s professionally credentialed and acclaimed teaching staff, students also regularly participate in national and international tours and collaborations and work frequently with visiting choreographers and guest teachers. Such touring opportunities and industry exposure refines individual skills and in turn showcases each student’s respective talents to dance professionals. Admission Requirements: Applications are submitted directly to WAAPA via the Online Admission System. Admission is based on audition and interview. Bachelor of Arts (Dance) Honours - 1 year full time Enables outstanding students to learn and apply practical, theoretical and research skills in either or both creative (choreographic or other media) and scholarly areas of dance. Certificate II in Dance - 2 years part time An accredited course that provides the career-minded dance student with specialised training in ballet and contemporary dance, to complement intensive studies undertaken in private studios. www.waapa.ecu.edu.au/courses-and-admissions/our-courses/disciplines/dance
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Adelaide College of the Arts TAFE SA (08) 8463 5000 arts.adl@tafesa.edu.au acarts.edu.au Adelaide College of the Arts is a centre of excellence in the performing arts, and has achieved a reputation for success in placing dance graduates with major companies in Australia and overseas. The Bachelor of Creative Arts (Dance) is a degree in elite dance performance and will draw on the strengths and reputation of Adelaide College of the Arts and Flinders University to deliver a premiere degree. Peter Sheedy, Lecturer in Contemporary Dance Studies: ‘Adelaide College of the Arts has very close connections with the industry’s current choreographers. We have collaborated with the Australian Dance Theatre and have been very successful in gaining employment for our dancers. We have dancers in Sydney Dance, DanceNorth and working all around the country in both big and small companies and in the independent scene. Anyone coming into the course can be assured that they will attain those connections and find those networks to be able to access the industry.’
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Directing
Toi Whakaari NZ Drama School’s Into The Woods. Photo: Philip Merry.
NIDA (02) 9697 7600 info@nida.edu.au Graduate diploma of Dramatic Art Directing stream (No accreditation confirmed for 2014) NIDA recognises that each student will be an individual artist. The course is designed to develop individual skills and knowledge, as well as a sense of leadership and accurate
communication. The course includes formal class work, seminars and tutorials in directing, acting, music, research, repertoire, design, technical theatre, stage management, arts administration and performance history, working as Assistant Director on NIDA productions and the preparation, rehearsal and presentation of short play productions. Particular emphasis is placed on the director's methods of communication with actors, designers and playwrights and on the development of repertoire. Master of Fine Arts (Directing) - 15 months (12 months on campus, 3 month personal research project) NIDA’s Master of Fine Arts (Directing) assists highly talented early career practitioners to master the directing process through education and training in the components of production, the interpretation of text, and the communication techniques required to engage with the contemporary audience. The course places strong emphasis on the collaborative role of the director in the theatrical process and challenges students to create and express their own vision in the context of international performance practice. This course provides students with the opportunity to analyse the theoretical underpinnings of the director’s craft and combine knowledge, skills and techniques across many platforms of theatre productions, including film. The directing technique that underpins the course builds on Stanislavski’s Active Analysis and contemporary theories of visuality. Other approaches are studied during the year as students formulate their own personal directing methodology. Particular emphasis is placed on the director’s methods of communication with actors, designers, stage managers, playwrights and other creative team members. Students will produce a short play (or film) in a public season, as well as undertaking a research project reflecting an aspect of their practice. www.nida.edu.au/directing Flinders Drama Centre Flinders University (08) 8201 2578 drama@flinders.edu.au http://flinders.edu.au/drama Bachelor of Creative Arts (Drama) - 3 years The aim of the course is to prepare students for a professional life by equipping students with basic professional skills in the areas of major employment in the entertainment industry: (Continued on page 58) www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 55
How To Direct A Farce
Sydney Theatre Company’s Noises Off. Photo: Brett Boardman.
pany’s Charley’s Aunt. Genesian Theatre Com
Braham Murray has released a practical handbook: How to Direct a Play - A Masterclass in Comedy, Tragedy, Farce, Shakespeare, New Plays, Opera, Musicals. In this excerpt he ducks swinging doors to give some hints on farce. A lot of directors won’t touch farce and if you don’t have a sense of humour and a love of gags it’s best to keep well away. It is very hard work and requires a lot of nerve but the sound of an audience rocking with laughter is one of the most rewarding sounds you have ever heard. The essence of great farce is that it is only one step away from tragedy. If it didn’t work itself out at the last moment then the leading characters’ lives would fall apart. There are many great French farces, mostly by Feydeau, though I prefer Hennequin and Veber, and I have three English favourites. The Happiest Days of Your Life is set just after the end of the Second World War in a boys’ boarding school. By mistake, the Ministry of Education billets a girls’ boarding school on them. The respective Headmaster and Headmistress battle for supremacy to protect their charges. Love blossoms between two young teachers, and doesn’t between a predatory frustrated spinster and her terrified opposite number. It is set at that moment when the old English Puritanism about sex and the cloistered nature of separately sexed education began to crumble. The play is hilariously funny but is much funnier if it is produced with this serious undertone in mind.
When you analyse Charley’s Aunt it has an extraordinary undertone. Kitty, Amy, Ela and Charley are all orphans and Jack’s mother is dead. You can’t play this overtly in the text but it makes their desire for love particularly intense. In See How They Run, a German POW has escaped. He is armed and the lives of those who live in the vicarage are in danger. If the audience believe that the characters in the play believe in the situation, then the play is funny. If they don’t, they aren’t, or at least not as funny as they should be. Casting farce is difficult. You need first-rate actors but if they don’t have what I call ‘the chuckle’, then the farce won’t work. What is ‘the chuckle’? They are actors who are inherently funny and engage an audience’s sympathy immediately. They must also enjoy the genre. A good serious actor, even one who is quite clever at business, will be like a lead-weight on the show if they haven’t got the chuckle. Your preparatory work and the first week of rehearsal will be different from any other genre. You will pre-block much more carefully and fully because positioning for the gags is crucial. Simple example: a character comes on
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stage, doesn’t see another character on there, makes some terrible remarks about the person they don’t see, then something happens that makes them turn and see the person. It requires the correct positioning and only you can see it. In the first week of rehearsals, although you will have broken down the text in the usual way, it won’t take long to go through the play. There is little complexity in farce and so you will be getting it on its feet pretty quickly to give the actors the feel of the production. Your aim is as usual to get them to the point when they are confident enough to start inventing business organic to their own characters. The invention and trying out of business is singularly unfunny and serious. You’ll find yourself saying something like, ‘Why don’t you walk across to the table, slip on that patch of water, fall off balance, crash into that table, grab the ruler which flips the rubber into the air and falls onto the head of the other teacher who is correcting prep.’ The actor does it. You watch and say, ‘No that isn’t funny. Try it again, and this time the rubber lands in the inkpot and splashes the Master’s corrections, he jumps up and backs into the Games Mistress who is practising her tennis swing and brings her racquet down over the Headmaster’s head.’ You watch again. ‘Yes, that’s funny, let’s keep that.’ So it goes on and by the time you get to the last week you and everyone else have probably lost faith that what you have invented is funny at all. There’s no one in rehearsals to laugh and everything seems purely mechanical and the more you run it the less funny it seems. I remember doing The Miser and becoming convinced that we were producing the unfunniest show ever. I managed to rustle up a small audience of Friends of the Theatre to watch a late run-through, they screamed with laughter and my confidence was restored. You will get used to this but it is very nerve-wracking. Enforced speed is of the essence. If ever there is a genre which requires the audience to be galloping to keep up
with you, this is it. Pauses are out. It’s sometimes necessary to tighten scenes in terms of cueing quite early on, as this both energizes the actors and gives them a glance of what the final result will be. If you go too slowly, the audience will see through the inevitable mechanical contrivances of the author. They mustn’t have time to think. The only pauses should be for laughter. Even here, don’t let the audience dominate you. Once each laugh has hit its peak and is beginning to die, tell the actors to come in with their lines. Not only does this help the rhythm stay correct but it builds and builds until that great moment when the audience laughs so loudly and even applauds, so that you just have to wait. Gags are, of course, mechanical but a good farceur will make them seem natural and therefore funnier. That old chestnut - the double-take - is hysterically funny if done for real in shock surprise. No gag should seem like a gag, and the actors should never seem to be asking the audience to
laugh. Feydeau’s advice was never to bother with laughs in the First Act but to draw the audience into the play so that they are involved in the story, all the whilst winding up the mechanism tighter and tighter and then letting it go, then the frenzy of what ensues will be totally believable. I don’t fully subscribe to not bothering about laughs in Act One but he’s right to emphasize involving the audience in the reality of the situation. To get the right breakneck speed and the reality of the play, you will have to be a martinet and drill the cast because the pace is not real and will have to be imposed. Your pay off, and theirs, will come with the first audience and their laughter.
A bonus copy is provided with every two or three year print subscription to Stage Whispers.
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realistic acting techniques, acting for screen, directing for theatre and screen, and music theatre; introducing students to areas of development and increasing importance in the Australian industry: post-modern performance techniques, intercultural performance, and the interface between live performance and multimedia; encouraging all students to work as conceptual artists through courses specialising in techniques of group devising, auto-performance and scriptwriting; developing in students, through a comprehensive history and theory stream, an awareness of the relevance of these discourses to professional practice www.flinders.edu.au/courses/rules/undergrad/bca/bca-drama.cfm##courseaims Victorian College of the Arts University of Melbourne 13 MELB Master Of Directing For Performance The Master of Directing for Performance is designed to develop your in-depth knowledge and skills of directing, and provide a framework to identify and reflect on your own practice as a director, performance-maker, collaborator and researcher. The program opens up a broad range of individual career pathways into contemporary performance practice through directing and performance making, practice-led research, and applied performance in intercultural and community engagement contexts. The VCA offers a unique environment for you to develop an individual approach to directing live performances and creative leadership in an environment of interdisciplinary and intercultural learning. You will experience a wide range of collaborative opportunities and leadership roles with designers, actors, production teams, writers, dramaturgs and choreographers at the VCA, as well as a range of creative encounters with local, national and international artists, organisations and communities. The program is delivered through lab-based workshops, seminars, lectures, self-directed exercises, tutorials, practical master classes, and national and international internships. It balances theory and practice across four semesters, to allow for progression from the intensively-taught, skills-based first year, to a more autonomous, project-orientated second year which culminates in an independent, practice-led research performance project or written dissertation. The program actively encourages intercultural and international training and research experiences through fieldwork in the second year of the course. https://vca.unimelb.edu.au/study/degrees/master-of-directing-for-performance/overview
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Drama/Education
NIDA’s A Dream Play. Image courtesy of NIDA. Photo: Lisa Maree Williams.
Many universities offer academic study of drama/theatre/Dance. It is most commonly taken as part of a Bachelor of Arts and can be a pre requisite for becoming a drama teacher. More details can be found here. www.adsa.edu.au/membership/current-members Sydney University Department of Theatre and Performance Studies http://sydney.edu.au/arts/performance Theatre and Performance Studies considers the whole extended field of aesthetic, social and everyday performance across a range of cultural and historical contexts: from theatre, dance, popular music and contemporary performance through to the performative dimensions of rituals, sport, politics and the law. This is an exciting area of interdisciplinary study (drawing, for instance, on anthropology, history, cultural studies, theatre studies, musicology, dance and movement studies) in which we seek to explain the phenomenon of performance as a complex, collaborative endeavour, involving performers and audiences alike in the production of meaning, feelings, a view of the world as it is and as it might otherwise be. University of New South Wales Theatre and Performance Studies https://sam.arts.unsw.edu.au/disciplines/theatre-performance/about Theatre and Performance Studies at UNSW examines how the theatrical and performing arts reflect and shape our sense of who we are. We study theatre and performance history and current trends, and deeply explores contemporary theatre and performance culture. Theatre and Performance Studies engages with both theory and practice, and subjects the entire spectrum of human performance to critical examination. Our focus includes new, hybrid and technologically advanced modes of performance, combining practical experimentation with intellectual exploration. Our scholars have particular expertise in contemporary performance theory and practice, 20th century European drama, theatre and dance theatre, live art and physical theatres, contemporary dance, multimedia performance, live entertainment and popular culture, and the relation of performance to other visual cultures, with close reference to Australian work across a range of genres. UNSW scored 5 out of 5 in the 2012 Excellence in Research for Australia in Performing Arts. www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 59
Theatre and Performance Studies is offered as a major or minor in the Bachelor of Arts and other combined programs and as a supervision area in the Master of Arts by Research and Doctor of Philosophy programs. Our unique combination of theory and practice is supported by the Creative Practice Lab, a specialised unit that supports teaching and practice-led research,and carried out in a number of well-equipped teaching, studios and workshop spaces at the university. Macquarie University Bachelor of Arts with a major in Dance and Performance This major assumes a wide definition of dance and performance, and students are encouraged to study broadly. This program considers not just the aesthetic dimension of dance and performance, but also their social, cultural, historical, and metaphorical frameworks. To develop confidence in working independently as artists, you are given opportunities to explore your own dance and performance making, combining theoretical and conceptual understandings with practical production experience. http://courses.mq.edu.au/undergraduate/degree/bachelor-of-arts/major-in-dance-and-performance Charles Sturt University Bachelor of Stage and Screen Acting Studies in acting, voice, movement and acting for the camera offer a busy practical program to learn the skills a professional performer needs. These skills are then applied to mainstage, studio and theatre productions and are supported with an active program of screen productions. www.csu.edu.au/courses/stage-and-screen-acting University of New England www.une.edu.au/about-une/academic-schools/school-of-arts/study-areas/theatre-studies The Bachelor of Theatre and Performance, the Bachelor of Arts (Theatre) and the Master of Applied Theatre Studies at UNE are unique courses in both practical and theoretical aspects of theatre. They are offered full-time and part-time, to both on- and off-campus students. The Theatre and Performance program at UNE is relevant to almost everyone, from those students who want to gain some experience in public speaking, oral communication and presentation through to experienced theatre practitioners and teachers who want to enhance and enrich their knowledge and professional skills. The Bachelor of Theatre and Performance examines theatre through a balance of theory and practice, and from many points of view. Different units of study focus on the roles of the actor, playwright, director, dramaturg, critic, theatre historian, scholar, teacher and audience. They look at Australian theatre and world theatre, at popular and classic forms. Deakin University Faculty of Arts and Education www.deakin.edu.au/study-at-deakin/find-a-course/drama Drama at Deakin specialises in marrying practice and theory. Drama students learn about the history and theory of drama, theatre and performance by making drama, theatre and performance. Monash University. Centre for Theatre and Performance. http://artsonline.monash.edu.au/theatre-performance The degrees offered by CTP explore theatre and performance in theory and practice, balancing performance opportunities with a challenging academic program. We have two strands, one aims to create theatre-makers and the other explores different historical and contemporary performance traditions and practices. In both we focus on the study of the past, present and future of the performance. SEDA 1300 117 332 info@sedagroup.com.au www.sedagroup.com.au SEDA Arts Development Program The SEDA Arts Development Program provides an exciting education opportunity for students looking to complete their Year 11 and 12 in a hands-on industry based program. 60 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
The Arts Development Program enables students the opportunity to achieve Year 12 completion and gain nationally recognised VET qualifications, while creating pathways to further study or the workforce. Students have the opportunity to complete: Certificate III in Community, Dance, Theatre and Events (CUA30213) Certificate IV in Community Culture (CUA40213) Diploma of Screen and Media (CUF50107) Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (Intermediate) (VCALINT001) Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (Senior) (VCALSEN001) Partnering with Arena Theatre Company and The Song Room, students will be given the opportunity to learn directly from those in the industry, developing networks to increase skill development and employment outcomes on successful completion of the program. The University of Queensland www.uq.edu.au/study/plan.html?acad_plan=DRAMAX2052 Part of Bachelor of Arts Honours The Honours program in Drama provides an understanding of the theatrical, and theoretical aspects of drama, from medieval street theatre, to the most recent Australian and European drama. The focus is on combining historical awareness with a framework for practical applications. The study of drama at honours level provides an enhanced context for understanding, analysing, and creating performance. The main aims of the Honours year are: To enable students with an adequate background in Drama to pursue further study in one specialist area in more depth than is possible with a pass degree. To enhance students' capacity for independent research and to acquire research skills appropriate to their area of specialisation. To train to a standard sufficient for enrolment in postgraduate research degrees, and for a specialist career. Achievement of first class or IIA honours allows direct entry to a PhD program. An Honours year in Drama will focus on developing and consolidating the knowledge and skills acquired during undergraduate study, with particular emphasis on utilising those skills in a sustained and purposeful way by conducting independent research. Apart from content knowledge, employers and professionals value both the reliability and capacity for independent work, and the skill at writing substantial reports which are demonstrated by successful completion of Honours. Griffith University Bachelor of Arts in Contemporary and Applied Theatre (1069) This practical and creative degree is designed for those who are committed and passionate about theatre, drama and performance work. You will learn through lectures, seminars, workshops, and collaborative group work and engage in a range of drama projects. Industry professionals will teach you skills in devising theatre, acting and performance skills development, directing, staging major productions, understanding contemporary and historical theatre contexts, and developing applied theatre projects for the community. An industry placement opportunity in your final year will further cement your practical experience. You will perform in venues such as Metro Arts, the Judith Wright Centre and the Brisbane Powerhouse. Exchange opportunities to prestigious universities in the United Kingdom, Canada, Sweden and more are also available. Curtin University Performance Studies http://courses.curtin.edu.au/course_overview/undergraduate/performance Bachelor of Arts (Humanities) - BA(Curtin) - MJRU-PERFS This major provides you with critical skills, theoretical understanding, practical training and experience in the fields of theatre and performance. You will develop skills in areas of theatre and performance practice, including acting and performance, directing, writing, devising, dramaturgy, critical analysis, stage management and theatre production. You will be able to learn from artists in residence and their professional production experiences. The extensive public production program by the on-campus Hayman Theatre Company presents you with the ideal chance to apply your skills and knowledge.
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Students perform six major productions each year ranging from Shakespeare to contemporary Australian or international works in the on-campus theatre, and also at venues around Perth. Each year ends with a Hayman Theatre pantomime. Performance studies is offered as part of the Bachelor of Arts. You can enhance your studies with a secondary major or choose from a range of elective units to support your career goals. Murdoch University Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theatre and Drama www.murdoch.edu.au/Courses/Theatre-and-Drama Our Theatre and Drama major will give you the perfect start into a world of drama. You will be taught by professionals who not only teach theatre and drama, but who are actively working and producing in Perth and beyond. They will provide you with the practice-based knowledge and skills to pursue your passion with creative vision and professional discipline. You can focus on specialising in acting, production, lighting, stage management or design. You will learn about the historical foundations of drama and theatre, as well as the most innovative and challenging contemporary work; you will be taught analytical and critical skills with which to develop your own ideas and theories. You will also be given the opportunity to enjoy the great literature of the world, and to write your own work. When you graduate you will be a versatile and informed practitioner; skilled at debating, analysing, arguing and communicating effectively. University of Notre Dame www.nd.edu.au/fremantle/schools/arts_sciences/theatre_studies.shtml Theatre Studies at Notre Dame is an engaging, creative and academically rigorous program which provides students with opportunities for study in acting, directing, theatre crafts, communications and literature. The Theatre Studies program offers the best possible combination of practical and theoretical learning and will be of real use to students in their professional lives. It is especially good in combination with such other discipline areas as English Literature and Communications and Media, and will equip students for graduate work in education, acting and directing. The Theatre Studies program also provides an excellent pathway to further study, including postgraduate opportunities in Arts management, directing and broadcasting. Flinders University www.flinders.edu.au/courses/undergrad/majors/drama.cfm Bachelor of Creative Arts (Drama) The Bachelor of Creative Arts (Drama) aims to develop the creative, practical, critical and collaborative skills required to pursue a career in the performing arts in Australia. Throughout the course you will combine practical training with a major sequence in an area of drama theory and electives of your choice. You will develop generic skills such as independent thinking, critical evaluation and the ability to do research that will greatly increase your employment prospects in a very competitive environment. Massey University Expressive Arts www.massey.ac.nz/massey/learning/departments/school-of-humanities/study/programme.cfm? prog_id=93330&major_code=2523 Expressive Arts Expressive Arts is an interdisciplinary programme that comprises three major discipline areas: theatre arts, creative writing and media practice. Expressive arts papers can be taken as a major or minor within the Bachelor of Communications, as part of an English or Media Studies major/minor in the Bachelor of Arts, or as elective subjects. Our programme explores the importance of artistic expression and the value of creative communication. We are interested in some of the fundamental questions that have traditionally underscored studies in the humanities: aesthetics, emotion, beauty, truth, identity and what it means to be human in the 21st century. Expressive arts explores these questions in relation to principles of creative processes, aesthetic dynamics, and notions of cultural citizenship. The programme equally values the roles of creative activity and critical enquiry in offering ‘ways of knowing’ that can help us to better communicate and understand important issues facing our globe, our nation, our home, and our selves. The curriculum offers a balance of artistic practice and scholarly research. Papers are taught by subject lecturers who are practicing artists in their fields who are equipped to help you develop critical thinking, research and interpretation skills, 62 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
as well as practical proficiencies in creative communication and expression. If you want to develop your artistic literacy or your practical creative skills, if you are an aspiring cultural producer and have a novel, a poem, a play, or a film that you have always wanted to produce, then expressive arts is the programme for you. The University of Auckland Drama www.arts.auckland.ac.nz/en/about/subjects-and-courses/drama.html Drama exists as texts which we can study, but is only fully realised when a dramatic text becomes live in performance. The study of drama is therefore academic (the analysis of texts) and creative (acting, designing, writing and directing). Drama is an ideal medium for addressing issues of contemporary relevance and debate. Historical and ancient dramatic texts are also often updated to the technology and conventions of modern theatre. An understanding of historical and cultural changes in theatre is therefore necessary to all practical drama. Drama is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes and is co-ordinated within English, Drama and Writing Studies in the School of Humanities. The University of Waikato Theatre Studies www.waikato.ac.nz/study/subjects/thst.shtml In Theatre Studies you learn about performance, the evolution of theatre and the creation of performance works. In Aotearoa/New Zealand there are examples of many forms of theatrical performance, both established and traditional, and also new and experimental. The live encounter at the centre of a performance makes theatre unique, and it is this uniqueness which shapes the nature of Theatre Studies at Waikato. The Theatre Studies programme uses a theory-through-practice approach to teaching and learning. A major in Theatre Studies is a rich and challenging pathway to an undergraduate Arts degree which can have a wide range of vocational applications. Many papers offer the opportunity for a focused practical study of performance, while others offer analytical approaches to the theories which have informed practice over the centuries. Two papers have public performance seasons as their main outcomes and the study process is closely linked to the process of page-to-stage, or idea-to-stage, which creates the performance. The practical tutorials, seminars and rehearsals take place in the theatre laboratory space, The New Place Theatre/Te Tapere Hou, and/or The Playhouse Theatre at the purpose-built Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts, which is also the venue for public performances. University of Auckland 0800 61 62 65 education@auckland.ac.nz or m.mullen@auckland.ac.nz www.education.auckland.ac.nz www.thebigidea.co.nz/connect/events/2014/jul/141586-applied-theatre-performance-of-hope-educ-756 A new postgraduate course at the University of Auckland’s Faculty of Education. This new special topic course examines drama and performance practices that address significant social issues. On this course students will: • Engage with practical approaches to applying theatre in diverse community contexts. • Build a historical overview of this area of practice. • Critically consider key political, ethical, aesthetic and pedagogic issues. This course can be taken within the following programmes: • Master of Education • Master of Professional Studies in Education • Master of Arts in Education • Bachelor of Education (Teaching) (Honours) • Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Education • Postgraduate Diploma in Education
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NIDA’s The Roaring Girl. Image courtesy of NIDA. Photo: Lisa Maree Williams.
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Make Up
Specialist Make-Up Students Take Centre Stage There were no drama queens allowed at St Joseph’s College’s recent musical production of Hairspray. Well-known for its high-quality productions, St Joseph’s knew who to call for hair and make-up for 55 cast members. They asked Specialist Make-up Services students from Northern Sydney Institute (NSI) to create unique looks for the production, and the results were astonishing. The NSI students, who were joined by two of their teachers for the Hairspray sessions, spent a semester planning the looks, approaching the production with enthusiasm and professionalism. This was a fantastic opportunity for these students, who were nearing the end of their course, to show off the skills they have learned. The chance to work in such a dynamic environment, presenting to a large audience, confirmed their passion to work in the industry. Hairspray is known for its extreme hairstyles and over-the-top make-up, making it ideal for these students to apply their classroom learning to a professional environment. They had to maintain their composure and high standards throughout the five 90minute evening performances. This kind of industry experience is what NSI is all about, giving the students a real taste of what it’s like to be a professional hair and make-up artist. Each NSI student was allocated a
invaluable to work alongside mentors with the years of industry experience they have. “I see theatre as an exciting setting for my career. At times the pace we experienced backstage made it feel like a blur, but it left us on a high.” The Specialist Make-up Services Diploma teaches artistry specific to the theatre and screen, and is the highest qualification achievable in Australia. Students learn how to design and apply makeup, and style hair, wigs and hairpieces for performances. Students also learn how to collaborate in a creative process while maintaining continuity of a performance’s appearance across its entire run. NSI shifted its class days to meet St Joseph’s programmed rehearsal times, giving students a taste of real industry working standards where the hair and makeup artists are a dynamic part of the production. NSI has a strong focus on delivering opportunities for students to practice the skills they learn in professional work environments. Many of the diploma’s mature age students said that they had always wanted to become hair and makeup specialists but had been discouraged because they feared not finding employment after training. The institute’s hands-on approach and focus on employment opportunities is helping them to finally purse their dreams careers with confidence. Maiss Aldugaily, who originally studied beauty therapy before returning to study the Specialist Makeup Services Diploma at NSI, said, “We dove into the roles of stage hair and makeup artists. We worked in the professional environment and that has been an invaluable experience that will help us when it comes time to find employment.” The St Joseph’s College production of Hairspray featured boys in Years 812 from St Joseph's as well as girls from Kambala, Loreto Kirribilli, Loreto Normanhurst, Marist Sisters, Mercy College, Monte S’Angelo, PLC Sydney, Queenwood, St Scholastica and St Vincent’s.
character from the musical to focus on, planning their looks throughout the semester before recreating them for each performance. The students had to think about the way the cast would be dancing and ensure the hairstyles could stand up to the movement. As is usually expected in stage productions, the lighting damaged the makeup work quickly so students worked in in the small spaces of time between scenes to do touch ups. The students transformed the cast of girls with stacked beehives, bouffants and baby-pink bobs, and slicked the boys’ hair into exaggerated pompadours to match the musical’s 1960s theme. Working behind the curtain can be a high-pressure experience when quick changes are required, the desired styling is complicated, and cast emotions run high. The students excelled, using their skills in collaboration, design, artistry and adaptability to provide industry-quality makeup and hair services. Mother of three, Claudine Demirian, originally studied nail technology and has returned to study the Specialist Make-up Services Diploma at NSI. Claudine said, “I have a new respect for the teachers after seeing how efficiently they worked during the shows. We had one quick change that Penelope Clements, coordinator and needed a cast member’s hair done in teacher of specialist makeup services, six minutes. The two teachers worked on one half each in silence and finished Northern Sydney Institute. with time to spare. As a student, it’s
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Sydney College of Makeup Art 0423 428 534 Info@sydneycollegeofmakeupart.com.au www.makeupcourse.com.au Certificate II of Makeup - Full-time or part-time Certificate IV of Makeup - Full-time or part-time Diploma of Makeup - Full-time or part-time Various shorts courses in makeup - Full-time or part-time 3Arts Make Up www.makeupeffectscollege.com/courses01.html Victoria University (03) 9919 4000 www.vu.edu.au Diploma of Specialist Make-Up Services Diploma of Specialist Make-Up Services is a must for those serious about pursuing a career in make-up. Learn how to style wigs and hairpieces apply specialised make-up for bridal, photographic, theatre, period, special effects, television, film and fashion. You will be qualified to work as a make-up/hair stylist/designer, special make-up effects artist/designer, freelance TV, theatre and film make-up artist. www.vu.edu.au/courses/diploma-of-specialist-make-up-services-cuf50407
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Music
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output in the ensemble setting in order to achieve a cohesive and coherent performance. It can be common practice at jam sessions for people who have never met before or even spoken to each other to be thrown into this situation of collaborating simultaneously. A high level of empathy (appreciating and understanding others’ role and contributions) and problem solving is required to be able to achieve a synergetic performance. These skills are extremely valuable to any profession.
A Jazz Education:
Life Skills Beyond The Music Jazz Music Institute believes that learning music through a jazz curriculum results in a more holistic understanding of how contemporary music works, more so than learning through any other genre. A jazz education instills a deeper understanding in melody, harmony and rhythm that can be transferred to any style or genre of contemporary music. However, it is not only music skills that can be transferred from a jazz education. There are also a number of life skills gained through a jazz education that can go beyond just the music. New York saxophonist Dave Liebman has outlined a number of values and life skills learned through the study of jazz music that are directly transferrable to life in general. Here are but a few of the skills learned through a jazz education that transfer to life skills beyond the music.
harmonic structure of the song you are improvising over (chord changes), knowing the notes that make up the chord changes (scales and arpeggios), understanding the rhythmic style of the song, listening to and reacting to the fellow musicians you are playing with. All while simultaneously funneling your own emotions, life experiences and personality to express your own voice and creativity through your instrument. Being able to achieve this complex level of multi-tasking is invaluable in skills outside of music. To be able to synthesise learned knowledge, environmental input and utilise one’s own personality and creativity displays an impressive level of clarity of thought, something that is useful in many life situations
Empathy and problem solving Collaboration in an ensemble performance In jazz music especially, Clarity of thought - Improvisation as an collaboration in performance involves a activity of multi-tasking heightened sense of “group” outside Improvisation is a central aspect to of “self”. Due to the improvisational learning jazz music. It involves a manner of the music, each member of complex process of multi-tasking in an ensemble must exercise a great your brain, understanding the awareness of every other member’s
Flexibility - Performing standard repertoire and applying one’s own voice Jazz music has a set of standard repertoire that, through the history of the music, is learned and interpreted by all aspiring jazz musicians. It’s common practice in the jazz industry to learn and understand the standard repertoire as it is, as well as applying your own interpretation of the repertoire through melodic, rhythmic and harmonic variation to express your own voice and personality. Through understanding the rules behind a song (the harmonic structure), learning jazz gives you tools for knowing what rules can be changed and broken to promote creative thinking and individuality. Being able to adjust and change direction in a situation already framed by a given set of rules and conditions instils the skill of flexibility and innovation; a life skill that is paramount to forging a successful career in any industry in the 21st century. The above are but a few skills learned through an education in jazz that are transferrable to other aspects of life in general. Through a jazz education you not only learn how to play music in a more holistic manner, arming you with tools that enhance your scope of creativity, you also develop valuable life skills that can be transferred to any vocation or industry.
For more information regarding the courses available at Jazz Music Institute, visit www.jazz.qld.edu.au
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Australian National University http://music.anu.edu.au Bachelor of Music Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Music Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Music Bachelor of Music/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Music/Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Music/Bachelor of Science (Psychology) Bachelor of Music/Bachelor of Asian Studies Bachelor of Music/Bachelor of Asian Studies (Specialist) Bachelor of Visual Arts/Bachelor of Music The School of Music is a unique place to study. Graduate fields of study include, but are not limited to: Australian indigenous music, including cultural performance Composition, including Australian composition Ethnomusicology, including applied and cultural performance Folk music Jazz composition, Improvisation and performance Music business, policy and administration Music curation, including musical instrument, audio-visual, and digital curation Music pedagogies and cognition Music technologies and media musicology Music theory, analysis, and semiotics Popular music Professional performance, including historically-informed classical performance Wesley Institute (02) 9819 8888 info@wi.edu.au www.wi.edu.au/courses/performing-arts-courses/music-course Master of Music - 2 years full time / Up to 6 years part time Bachelor of Music - 3 years full time / Up to 9 years part time Associate Degree of Music - 2 years full time / Up to 6 years part time The Bachelor of Music provides students with the technical, artistic and analytical training required to become professional musicians. The course features private tuition for voice and instrument studies and extensive performance and studio experiences. Offering multiple performance genres, regular performance opportunities and a strong project emphasis, the Bachelor of Music is an industry-standard degree for aspiring musicians. Students exiting the Bachelor of Music after the first two years of the degree will be awarded the Associate Degree of Music. Australian Institute of Music (02) 9219 5444 enquiries@aim.edu.au www.aim.edu.au Bachelor of Music - 2 years An AIM Bachelor of Music (BMus) qualification is an accredited and specialised music degree designed to give you professional education and training for a lifelong career in music and the entertainment industry. 70 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
Whereas you would normally study a single degree at a University in Australia over 3 years, the AIM Bachelor of Music degree can be completed in 6 semesters over 2 years of study, by completing 20 credit points per semester (120 in total). Diploma of Music | Contemporary Performance This course is a comprehensive program of technical skills, musical knowledge and performance experiences. As a Contemporary Performance major you will have training in music industry knowledge and skills that will prepare you for your career. You will work with specialist staff and have access to a range of quality facilities for live performance, studio recording and music production. www.aim.edu.au/courses/contemporary-performance/undergraduate/diploma-of-music.asp Academy of Music and Performing Arts (AMPA) (02) 9555 1666 www.ampa.edu.au Bachelor of Music Associate Degree of Music www.ampa.edu.au/index.php/undergraduate-music Northern Rivers Conservatorium of Arts (02) 6621 2266 admin@nrcac.edu.au www.nrcac.edu.au Cert III in Music Diploma in Music Southern Cross University 1800 626 481 Bachelor of Contemporary Music Core studies: During first year, students learn about contemporary music theory and styles, the practice of music, music technology and the internet, songwriting and musicianship. They then select two majors to specialise in their areas of interest. Majors: Performance enables specialisation in the student’s chosen instrument (guitar, bass, keyboards, voice or drums). Practical tuition is provided through individual lessons and group workshops. These classes are supported by ensemble classes which provide industry-relevant training, (for example playing in bands). Industry and Audio Production prepares students for working professionally in the music industry and enables students to train for a portfolio career that encompasses composition and music production as well as practical music. Other areas of specialised study include conducting business in the music industry, marketing musical products and managing a career as an independent musician. Music Education provides training for students who are pursuing a career in music teaching. Areas of study include western art music, ensemble direction and arranging, music theory, musicianship and practical music. These units provide vocational skills specifically required for secondary music teaching and also essential for teaching music in other contexts. Please note: Entry to the performance major is by audition during the first year of study, with students commencing the major in the second year. www.scu.edu.au/coursesin2014/?action=matrix&command=matrix_temp_load&spk_no=10144 Sydney Conservatorium of Music University of Sydney (02) 8627 8200 student.centre@sydney.edu.au http://sydney.edu.au/current_students/student_administration/contacts/student_centre.shtml Bachelor of Music (Performance) Performance students take a vocal or instrumental Principal Study through eight semesters. Specialists in jazz take Jazz Performance as their Principal Study. Principal Study is taken together with Chamber Music and Orchestral Studies (for those playing an orchestral instrument) or Jazz Ensemble (for Jazz students), and other performance-related studies. In www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 71
addition, students take core studies in aural perception, harmony and analysis (jazz music skills for Jazz students), as well as studies in analysis, history and culture, and pedagogy. Principal study is available in the following areas: Brass: French horn, trombone, trumpet, tuba Early Music: baroque flute, harpsichord, lute, recorder, viola da gamba, baroque trumpet Jazz: bass, brass, drums, guitar, piano, vibraphone, woodwind Organ Percussion Piano and Accompaniment Strings: cello, double bass, guitar, harp, viola, violin Voice (classical) Woodwind: bassoon, clarinet, flute, oboe, saxophone. http://sydney.edu.au/handbooks/conservatorium/undergraduate/b_music_performance.shtml Bachelor of Music (Composition) Bachelor of Music (Music Education) Bachelor of Music (Musicology) Bachelor of Music (Performance) Bachelor of Music Studies Bachelor of Music Studies (Honours) Combined with Bachelor of Arts Combined with Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery Diploma of Music Advanced Diploma of Opera TAFE Illawarra 1300 766 123 Diploma in Music Learn how to compose and orchestrate original music, lead music rehearsals and performances, coordinate technical production, test and repair sound equipment, make technical presentations, analyse music videos, or manage the production of sound designs and sound recordings. Gain employment in the music industry as a song writer, soloist and/ or member of a group, or behind the scenes in technical production, music promotion or teaching. Courses are available in: Music; and Sound Production. University of Newcastle Faculty of Education and Arts School of Creative Arts (02) 4921 8902 creativearts@newcastle.edu.au www.newcastle.edu.au/school/creative-arts/areas/music Why study music at UoN? If you’ve been performing or creating music, then studying music at university level is an excellent way to continue your studies and prepare you for a career as a professional musician or in a music-related field. The Bachelor of Music prepares students for a musical career at a professional standard. The degree is conducted over three years of full-time study or part-time equivalent, all of which is undertaken at The Conservatorium, located in the Civic Centre precinct of Newcastle. The degree aims to musically develop skills by providing every opportunity to develop individual creativity while receiving high quality training in music. www.newcastle.edu.au/school/creative-arts 72 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
www.newcastle.edu.au/degrees/bachelor/music.html www.newcastle.edu.au/degrees/bachelor/music-arts.html www.newcastle.edu.au/degrees/bachelor/music-honours.html www.newcastle.edu.au/degrees/graduate-certificate/music-technology.html www.newcastle.edu.au/degrees/master/music-technology.html University of New South Wales www.arts.unsw.edu.au/future-students/undergraduate/degrees/bachelor-of-music The Bachelor of Music (UNSW BMus) - 4 years You will complete: Core courses in music performance, musicianship and musicology Your choice of specialist music stream (see options below) Extensive training in ensemble skills and professional practices Free elective courses that give you the flexibility to combine your music studies with complementary areas Bachelor of Music / Bachelor of Arts (BMus/BA) Bachelor of Music / Bachelor of Education (BMus/BEd) Bachelor of Music / Bachelor of Science (BMus/BSci) Bachelor of Arts (Music Studies) (BA) Bachelor of Arts (Music Studies Extension) (BA) Bachelor of Arts (Music Studies Extension) / Bachelor of Education (BA/BEd) University of Western Sydney (02) 9852 5222 http://future.uws.edu.au/future_students_home/ug/creative_and_communication_arts/bachelor_of_music Bachelor of Music The UWS Bachelor of Music takes an eclectic, modern and inclusive approach to music repertoire, performance and sound design. It gives you an opportunity to develop your professional and creative potential in making and appreciating a range of different types of music. You will focus on repertoire and media of the 20th and 21st centuries and also study music from earlier historical periods. You will have opportunities to use our recording studios, multimedia and MIDI labs, and digital audio/video suites. You can also gain practical experience in performance as a soloist and in groups, concert administration and production, recording, composition, audio production, library research and retrieval, film music and collaboration. University of Wollongong School of the Arts, English and Media (02) 4221 3456 | 1300 367 869 lha-enquiries@uow.edu.au or uniadvice@uow.edu.au http://lha.uow.edu.au/taem Bachelor of Creative Arts (Music) (UAC 754603) / Bachelor of Creative Arts (Music) Deans Scholar (UAC 754610) - 3 years full time The study of Music integrates physical, intellectual and emotional aspects, including instrumental or vocal performance, composition, music production, theory and history, in order to gain a deeper understanding of how music works as well as to develop skills as a creative practitioner to prepare for a career in the arts. This is a versatile, hands-on degree that prepares you to become part of the global creative industries by focusing on contemporary music practice. The Music major combines teaching in performance and composition with developments in electronic media, building your skills and expertise across three interrelated areas: music studio, audio production and critical studies in music. Prerequisites: Nil. Recommended studies in English and Drama http://go.uow.edu.au/bca-music
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ANU (02) 6125 5111 domestic.enquiry@anu.edu.au www.anu.edu.au Bachelor of Music The Bachelor of Music is based around three Majors: Music Performance, Creative Musicianship (including Composition and Improvisation) and Musicology (including Ethnomusicology). You are also able to take a Minor in Music Technology. Upon successful completion of the degree, you will have developed the appropriate disciplinary knowledge and acquired the skills to: create, perform, analyse, and critique music of a variety of styles and genres at a level commensurate with the commonly accepted standards of the music profession; critically apply theoretical frameworks and research techniques to technical, critical, physiological, and aesthetic issues related to music; identify—including through the interrogation of databases—relevant sources of information about music from across a variety of media (print and digital, written and audio-visual) and judge the importance and reliability of those sources; evaluate musical ideas and develop creative solutions to musical problems, including through the independent pursuit of knowledge and by making connections between different disciplinary approaches and methods; communicate and debate musical ideas both orally and in writing, and work with others, using a variety of media; and understand the ethical implications of the research, creation, performance and reception of music. Degree combinations including the Bachelor of Music are available in two groups: Arts, business, social sciences & science group Law group Prerequisites: Applicants must meet the minimum ATAR of 80 (75 with bonus points) and meet audition requirements. Applicants will be expected to have pre-existing musical knowledge such as a competency level equivalent to NSW Music 2 or Music Extension, or AMEB Grade 5 theory, or equivalent qualifications or experience. In addition, Career prospects: The ANU Bachelor of Music degree not only enables you to develop your love for music, it also provides a foundation for a career In practical music making; music education; music advocacy; academic research; entrepreneurship; and media and technology. http://music.anu.edu.au/future-students/undergraduate/bachelor-music Bachelor of Music (Honours) The Bachelor of Music (Honours) is characterised by the concept of music—be it performance, composition, or musicology - as a research-led process that explores questions relevant to our understanding of what it means to be human and of who we are. The core of this program is the sub-thesis, which is focused on the production of a substantial piece of research realised through either performance, composition, or a 20,000-25,000 word written document. A performance or composition will be explained verbally through a 5000-word exegesis that explores the creative act as a research process and explains the contribution to knowledge that the creative act makes. Prerequisites: Entry requires the completion of a Bachelor of Music degree with an average mark of at least a distinction; written permission of the honours convenor; and written agreement of a staff member to supervise the sub-thesis. http://music.anu.edu.au/future-students/undergraduate/bachelor-music-honours Charles Darwin University (08) 8946 7766 or 1800 061 963 student.admin@cdu.edu.au www.cdu.edu.au Bachelor of Creative Arts and Industries (Music) - 3 years The course offers two principal pathways of study: a classical music specialisation or a contemporary music specialisation. A third pathway is also offered as a combination of the two. This flexible course allows students to choose suites of study that best accommodate their individual career pathway. A close partnership with the Darwin Symphony Orchestra, the Darwin Festival, the Garma Festival and the Centre for Youth and Community provides a challenging and exciting environment in which to learn music and gain experience in community-based musical events. http://stapps.cdu.edu.au/pls/apex/f? 74 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
p=100:31:6504209502244651::NO::P31_SEARCH_COURSE,P31_SEARCH_YEAR,P31_SEARCH_VERSION,P31_TAB_LABEL :BCAIMU,2013,3, Bachelor of Music (BMUSIC) - 3 years Students should have some formal training in music and be experienced on their instrument if selecting the performance specialization. This information can be gauged at the interview and audition and advice will be given as to the most appropriate sequence of study within the degree http://stapps.cdu.edu.au/pls/apex/f? p=100:31:6504209502244651::NO::P31_SEARCH_COURSE,P31_SEARCH_YEAR,P31_SEARCH_VERSION,P31_TAB_LABEL :BMUSIC,2013,1, Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (07) 4940 7800 t.mcrae@cqu.edu.au www.cqu.edu.au/cqcm Bachelor of Music - 3 years full time or 6 years part time The Bachelor of Music at CQUniversity is designed to provide specialist training in Jazz and Popular Music or Music Studies. Students may study at CQUniversity’s Mackay Ooralea Campus or via distance, and will benefit from hands-on experience combined with academic study in the interpretation and understanding of music. Completing a Bachelor of Music will enable you to pursue a variety of roles in the music industry such as Professional Musician, Recording or Sound Engineer, Recording Artist, Composer or Private Music Educator. Prerequisites: Audition and interview. Diploma of Music - 1 year full time or 2 years part time The Diploma of Music is available through CQUniversity’s Regional Conservatorium partnerships in Albury and Wagga Wagga. You will be supported throughout your study and undertake one-on-one instrumental tuition with highly qualified regional conservatorium staff in Classical Jazz or Popular Music. Completing a Diploma of Music will enable you to pursue various roles such as Professional Musician or Studio Teacher, or you could choose to articulate into CQUniversity’s Bachelor of Music (Music Studies). Prerequisites: Audition and interview. James Cook University (07) 4781 4111 www.jcu.edu.au Bachelor of New Media Arts (Music and Sound Media) - 3 years Digital sound and music skills are valuable for performers, sound technicians, producers and for those pursuing a career in new media, including electronic games and mobile technologies. Music and Sound Media brings together composition, performance and the use of technology to give you the skills needed for careers in the music industry. You are able to choose from a variety of instruments and have access to a stateof-the-art recording studio. You will also have the opportunity to experiment with digital or computer music technologies, enabling you to create or perform music in your own right or as part of a broader series of collaborative tasks. www-public.jcu.edu.au/courses/course_info/index.htm?userText=15910-BNM-MSM TAFE Queensland Gold Coast (07) 5581 8300 gold.coast@tafe.qld.edu.au http://tafegoldcoast.edu.au Diploma of Music The Diploma of Music focuses on live performance and production. The program entails music theory, developing yourself as an artist, rehearsals, using technology to develop and enhance your live performances, studio session recording, composition/ensemble performance, and production skills in a practical medium. http://tafegoldcoast.edu.au/course/creative-arts/11530/diploma-music#.VAUs-_mSzVs Diploma of Music Business Designed to provide a thorough grounding in the business side of the music industry, this course includes budget management, promotion, recording contracts, copyright and distribution. www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 75
Queensland University of Technology (07) 3138 8114 ci@qut.edu.au Bachelor of Music - 3 years full-time QUT's music course prepares aspiring musicians to adapt to the rapidly changing music industry. Music students are encouraged to create works across musical boundaries and strike out in bold new directions. If production is your passion, you will focus on creating new music using songwriting, studio recording, sequencing, digital processing and writing for voices with acoustic and electro-acoustic instruments. If you are interested in performance you can focus on developing your unique performance style, such as creating new work, using digital technology, new interpretations of repertoire, and gain experience performing in a recording studio environment. The emphasis is on creativity and new music, and you will be encouraged to explore new connections and different styles and genres of music. Our industrystandard music recording studios will enable you to hone your skills in a professional setting. You will be inspired to collaborate with like-minded people on various projects while finding new ways to create music. You will be given opportunities to launch your career through public performances in Brisbane’s live music venues. Music students have presented live performances in venues such as The Zoo, The HiFi, the Brisbane Powerhouse, Valley Studios and QPAC, as well as at the Brisbane Festival Spiegeltent. www.qut.edu.au/study/study-areas/study-music-and-sound Graduate Certificates and Masters A range of postgraduate study options is available, either to provide further depth to your study and practice in the performing arts, or for those without prior creative industries qualifications. www.qut.edu.au/study/study-areas/study-music-and-sound Griffith University Queensland Conservatorium of Music Phone & Fax: (07) 3735 6111 www.griffith.edu.au/music Bachelor of Popular Music - 3 years full-time Unique to Griffith, this program emphasises the musical innovation and creativity necessary to be successful in a wide range of vocations in the popular music industry. You’ll study contemporary popular music practices and emerging technologies and develop skills in sound engineering and production. Through a mix of theoretical and practical training, you will learn how to develop creativity in music technology, production, performance, song writing and the business of music. You will also have 24/7 access to extensive recording studio facilities so you can record, review and improve your songs and improvisations. You can elect to undertake a music industry internship courses in the final stages of this degree. Prerequisites: English 4SA and Audition www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=1196 Graduate Diploma of Music Studies - 1 year full-time / 2 years part-time This program offers the flexibility to choose from a wide variety of possible course combinations to tailor studies to individual needs. They provide superior-level skills across the spectrum of possible musical professions and are structured with this goal in mind. Queensland Conservatorium customises music studies to individual specialisations. All students have the opportunity to present their work to the public, whether in recitals, print or electronic media. Prerequisites: To be eligible for admission to this program, applicants will require the following: hold a three year tertiary level qualification in music from a recognised institution or have standing, professional experience or qualifications deemed by the Queensland Conservatorium to be equivalent and successfully undertake an audition and receive a panel recommendation for admission to the Graduate Certificate in Music Studies or the Graduate Diploma in Music Studies. www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=4117 Graduate Certificate in Music Studies - 0.5 years full-time, 1 year part-time This program offers the flexibility to choose from a wide variety of possible course combinations to tailor studies to individual needs. It provides superior-level skills across the spectrum of possible musical professions and is structured with this goal in mind. Queensland Conservatorium customises music studies to individual specialisations. All students have the opportunity to present their work to the public, whether in recitals, print or electronic media. Prerequisites: Applicants will require the following: hold a three year tertiary level qualification in music from a recognised institution or have standing, professional experience or qualifications deemed by the Queensland Conservatorium to be equivalent and successfully undertake an audition and receive a panel recommendation for admission to the Graduate Certificate in Music Studies. www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=3091 76 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
Master of Music Studies - 1.5 years full-time, Advanced: 1 year full-time This program offers the flexibility to choose from a wide variety of possible course combinations to tailor studies to individual needs. They provide superior-level skills across the spectrum of possible musical professions and are structured with this goal in mind. Queensland Conservatorium customises music studies to individual specialisations. All students have the opportunity to present their work to the public, whether in recitals, print or electronic media. Prerequisites: Requirements must be met according to the stream applying for www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=5298 Bachelor of Music - 3 years full-time or 4 years full-time Anyone seeking the highest quality professional music training available for the classical and jazz instrumentalist, vocalist or composer performer can’t go past this degree. You’ll choose from an range of ensemble and elective course options and be able to develop pathways of study that coincide with your interests. You’ll acquire the adaptability, selfmotivation, technological literacy and breadth of vision necessary to succeed in the music industry. Your will be exposed to diverse musical styles and idioms, including classical, jazz and world music, and to the broadly accepted musical skills of aural awareness training, music theory and ensemble work. Prerequisites: English 4SA and Audition www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=1268 Bachelor of Music with Honours - 1 year full-time This is a one year Honours program for those who have completed a three year Bachelor of Music program or equivalent from another institution OR who have graduated with the three year Bachelor of Music from the Queensland Conservatorium and now wish to return to complete the Honours year. This program will provide the opportunity for students to develop their specialist interests in Music Studies, Performance, Advanced Performance, Performance and Pedagogy, or Composition, through a program of research and research training. Prerequisites: Hold a three or four year degree in music from a recognised university which is equivalent to the Bachelor of Music at Griffith University; have achieved a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5.6 or equivalent; have a good general academic record including consistently high results in courses involving a written research component; provide examples of written research work demonstrating suitable research preparation equivalent to Distinction level work at third year level at Queensland Conservatorium; provide a Dissertation Research Proposal of satisfactory standard in the format prescribed by the Conservatorium (contact the Convenor for details); for Performance strands - demonstrate in an audition a performance standard equivalent to at least a Distinction in third year Performance Study at the Conservatorium; for Composition strand - demonstrate through a folio of compositions a standard equivalent to at least a Distinction in third year Composition Study at the Conservatorium; for the Music Studies strand the requirement for audition or composition folio may be waived and in lieu, a folio of written research work should be submitted equivalent in standard to at least Distinction level work in third year Music Literature courses at the Conservatorium; participate in an interview if required. www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=2051 Bachelor of Popular Music with Honours - 1 year full-time This program will prepare talented undergraduate students studying popular music for entry into Masters or Doctoral studies by developing popular music research skills and broadening the scope of both research method and creative practice. The program comprises of coursework and a dissertation. The dissertation component can be either a scholarly dissertation or a minor dissertation combined with creative product. Prerequisites: Student will be expected to have completed all three years of the degree requirements of the Bachelor of Popular Music at the following levels of achievement: a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5.6, and at least a Distinction in Year 3 Popular Music Production courses and Music Literature and Culture courses. www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=2062 Certificate in Music Studies - 0.5 years full-time This is the path for you if your earlier studies in music have not been sufficient for entry into the Bachelor of Popular Music. The music industry offers a diverse range of opportunities. This certificate program will help you to develop your knowledge by addressing key technology topics including sound recording, sound engineering, MIDI and theory-based topics. Prerequisites: English 4SA plus audition and folio of recorded work www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=9019 Master of Music - 2 years full-time / 4 years part-time This program develops the highest possible skills in musical practice and research by providing advanced musical training, promoting reflective professional activity, and providing opportunities for innovative research and creative www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 77
accomplishment. You'll also undertake practice-led research projects including - but not limited to - performance, composition, music technology, and music education. Prerequisites: A Bachelor of Music with at least second-class honours (Division B) or an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution. Other requirements may have to be met depending on the stream applying for. www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=5299 Doctor of Musical Arts - 3 years full-time (4 years maximum) / 6 years part-time (8 years maximum) This program provides musicians with extensive experience with the opportunity to upgrade their skills and qualifications through research based on their practice in Composition, Performance, Teaching and Learning, or Technology. Prerequisites: Must hold a recognised degree, which meets required standards, or possess a recognised record of research or a qualification that meets required standards. Plus have at least five years professional experience, provide a presentation of a current portfolio, attend an interview, present a research proposal www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=6017 University of Queensland (07) 3365 1111 www.uq.edu.au Music Single Major You will approach the study of Western art music in a challenging and engaging way, incorporating critical perspectives and historical knowledge along with written and aural skills. Students contemplating the extended major will have a choice of two streams, a musicological stream which further develops the aspects described above, and a professional stream which combines elements of the above with a specially developed suit of courses designed for students interested to pursue the professional fields of Music Education or Music Therapy through the relevant dual-degree or postgraduate programs. www.uq.edu.au/study/plan.html?acad_plan=MUSICX2320 Diploma of Music Performance The Diploma of Music Performance is offered concurrently with any undergraduate program offered by this University. www.uq.edu.au/study/program.html?acad_prog=1605 Jazz Music Institute (07) 3216 1110 Fax: (07) 3216 1150 play@jazz.qld.edu.au www.jazz.qld.edu.au Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance - 3 years full-time Jazz Music Institute (JMI) is the only private higher education provider in Australia that offers a degree strictly dedicated to jazz performance. The 3-year Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance is a unique, focussed and performance-based degree. Delivered by some of Australia's finest jazz musicians and educators, JMI teaches all elements of jazz in an holistic way. There is a high emphasis on improvisation and developing strong aural and analysis ability in students. Students spend the majority of contact hours in performance-based classes, giving them the opportunity to learn and refine playing skills more than any other institution or university. Entry is by audition only, applying directly through JMI. NB: This course is FEE-HELP approved and is only open for domestic students. Diploma of Music (Jazz Performance) - 1-year full-time If your earlier studies in music are not sufficient for entry into an undergraduate degree program, this course will help you bridge the knowledge gap. It is an intensive one-year performance program that focuses on the development of the musical skills and theoretical knowledge required for the Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance. This course Theory/ Harmony, Ensemble, Reading, Aural skills, Principal Study (one on one private lessons), Music Industry and Improvisation Entry is by audition only, applying directly through JMI. NB: This course is VET FEE-HELP approved and is only open for domestic students.
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Elder Conservatorium of Music, University of Adelaide (08) 8303 5995 music@adelaide.edu.au http://music.adelaide.edu.au Certificate III in Music Certificate IV in Music Diploma in Music Bachelor of Music Bachelor of Music (Honours) Diploma in Instrumental Music The Bachelor of Music program is divided into the eight areas of specialisation: Classical Performance Composition Jazz Performance Musicology Music Education Performance and Pedagogy Popular Music and Creative Technologies Sonic Arts (formerly Music Technology) Conservatorium of Music University of Tasmania (03) 6226 7308 Heather.Monkhouse@utas.edu.au www.utas.edu.au/conservatorium-of-music Diploma in Music Performance Associate Degree in Music Studies Associate Degree in Music (Rock Studies) Bachelor of Music Bachelor of Musical Arts Bachelor of Music with Honours Postgraduate Courses Graduate Certificate in Music Studies (Specialisation) Graduate Diploma in Professional Music Practice Graduate Diploma in Music Studies (Specialisation) Master of Music Master of Music Studies
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Monash University Academy of Performing Arts Monash University (03) 9902 6000 www.monash.edu.au Bachelor of Music - 3 years To be the best, surround yourself with high-achievers. Our School of Music - Conservatorium is consistently ranked among the best music schools in Australia. And we've handpicked your mentors from the best in the business. Tutors and lecturers have studied at leading overseas institutions like the Royal Academy of Music in London and the Manhattan School of Music in New York, and even our new Vice-Chancellor's Professorial Fellow in the School of Music is an industry heavyweight. You'll receive one-on-one instrumental teaching to develop your solo and ensemble performance skills. You'll have a number of opportunities to study overseas. You will also benefit from fantastic facilities. Our Performing Arts Centre contains a recital hall, drama theatre, music technology studios, an Early Music Room, an Asian Orchestras Room and a suite of practice studios (with quality pianos). www.monash.edu.au/study/coursefinder/course/0821/?courseview=domestic Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Music - 4.5 years Victorian College of the Arts University of Melbourne 13 MELB Contemporary Music Foundation Program (Music) - 1 year The Foundation Program is a one-year program that recognises and addresses the need to provide a course of study for those whose performance skills show potential but who have not attained the required standard in practical and/or theoretical studies for admission to the Bachelor of Fine Arts (Contemporary Music) or Bachelor of Fine Arts (Music Theatre). Two streams are offered: Contemporary Music Performance: Improvisation and Music Theatre. Completion of this course does not guarantee a place in the: Bachelor of Fine Arts (Contemporary Music), Bachelor of Fine Arts (Music Theatre), or Bachelor of Music courses at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music. This course is only available to domestic students. The Foundation Program is not an undergraduate degree. http://vca.unimelb.edu.au/musicfoundation Bachelor of Fine Arts (Contemporary Music) - 3 years full time Contemporary Music at the VCA reflects our ethos of practical, intensive and performance-focused training. Our learning environment encourages initiative, entrepreneurship and creative skills in a contemporary context. Our curriculum offers you the opportunity to participate in a range of concerts, events and interactive projects, reflecting our commitment to music-making in a broad range of musical styles and media. Our majors: Jazz And Improvisation Embraces improvisation in a diversity of musical genres including; jazz, world music, popular music, folk music, experimental music, electronica, crossover music, a cappella and multimedia. The program balances skills with creativity and encourages the development of the personal voice through contemporary performance practice and original compositions. Interactive Composition The Interactive Composition major focuses on commercially driven cross-art modes of composition. For areas as diverse as events, film, television, animation, theatre, music theatre, dance, pop music, advertising, video gaming, web, installation art and sound design. The program develops your craft in interactive music making and gives you the skills required to develop new artistic works individually and in groups within a range of cross-media environments. Graduates of the Contemporary Music program work as performers and composers in the Australian and international music industries. They also work in a number of associated professions including; music technicians, directors, producers and educators. https://vca.unimelb.edu.au/study/degrees/bachelor-of-fine-arts-contemporary-music/overview Bachelor of Music The Bachelor of Music is a three-year program that offers a rich range of choices, experiences, career outcomes and graduate pathways. The degree offers flexible study pathways that can be tailored to meet students’ interests, skills and needs in preparation for their future life in music. Distinctive features of the Bachelor of Music include: 80 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
An extensive practical program offering one-to-one instrumental / vocal tuition and regular master-classes with national and international visiting artists A wide range of ensemble experiences including Chamber Music, Orchestra and Choir, Big Band, Wind Symphony, non-western ensembles (e.g., Javanese Gamelan), World Music Choir, Early Voices and many others An active concert life, with regular lunchtime and evening concerts by students, professionals, and visiting artists. Majors available in: Music Performance, Composition, Musicology and Ethnomusicology. http://conservatorium.unimelb.edu.au/bmus Box Hill Institute of TAFE 1300 BOX HILL (1300 269 445) info@boxhill.edu.au Bachelor of Applied Music (Composition) Bachelor of Applied Music (Performance) Advanced Diploma of Music Diploma of Music Certificate IV in Music RMIT (03) 9925 2260 Bachelor of Arts (Music Industry) www.rmit.edu.au/programs/bp047 Victorian University (03) 9919 4000 Certificate II in Music Certificate IV in Music Advanced Diploma of Music Australian National Academy of Music (ANAM) (03) 9645 7911 info@anam.com.au www.anam.com.au ANAM Professional Performance Program An intensive 12 month individually based performance program, structured to meet the optimum development requirements of each student. Students participate in solo, chamber and orchestral/ensemble training and performance along with career and professional development, ANAM’s Health and Wellbeing program plus community and outreach projects. Students work with a distinguished faculty of artists along with national and international guest musicians. Entry is via direct application to ANAM. Whilst primarily open to applicants who have undertaken tertiary study, applicants who do not have a recognised tertiary award but who demonstrate an equivalent musical ability and maturity at the audition and interview may be considered for admission to this program. http://www.anam.com.au/study/programs.phps ANAM Fellowship The ANAM Fellowship program is designed to provide musicians and/or ensembles of exceptional accomplishment with the opportunity to realise a specific goal in support of their musical development. As Fellows, recipients are provided with the freedom and appropriate support to progress their music careers. There is no academic pre-requisite, however applicants must be able to demonstrate appropriate skill and professional experience. http://www.anam.com.au/study/programs.phps www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 81
ANAM/Griffith University Master of Music (Research) The ANAM/Griffith University Master of Music degree is a fully accredited post-graduate degree through Griffith University Queensland, open to applicants accepted into the ANAM Professional Performance Program who successfully meet both ANAM and Griffith University’s entry requirements. The 12 month program is delivered at ANAM in South Melbourne, in partnership with Griffith University and provides an intensive instrumental training program, focusing on solo, chamber and ensemble/orchestral training and performance, underpinned by research/reflective study. Students wishing to undertake the ANAM/Griffith University Master of Music (Research) must first satisfy the ANAM course entry requirements. Once accepted into the ANAM Professional Performance Program applicants must then apply to Griffith University to be considered for the ANAM/Griffith University Master of Music (Research). http://www.anam.com.au/study/programs.phps The University of Western Australia (08) 6488 2051 music@uwa.edu.au www.music.uwa.edu.au The study of music can now be undertaken as part of the new undergraduate degrees in: Bachelor of Arts [BA] Bachelor of Commerce [BCom] Bachelor of Design [BDes] Bachelor of Science [BSc] Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) [BPhil(Hons)] www.music.uwa.edu.au/courses/undergraduate WAAPA Edith Cowan University 134 ECU (134 328) (08) 6304 0000 enquiries@ecu.edu.au All WAAPA music students take a common core of historical and theoretical studies in addition to following a specialised performance-based curriculum in their selected area. An elective stream allows students to explore areas outside of their own specialisation. The full- time lecturers are internationally renowned in their respective fields and are augmented by a part-time staff that is fully engaged in the industry. Our programs are recognised both nationally and internationally and our graduates can be found not only producing ARIA winning albums, performing in major symphony orchestras, topping the charts, touring the world as solo artists or writing music for film and television but also in many of the new and exciting careers open to musicians today. With comprehensive programs in classical music, jazz, composition and music technology, musicology, theory and music education, WAAPA is a dynamic and stimulating environment in which to study music. We offer an exciting curriculum that simultaneously grounds musicians in the great traditions of the past while also equipping them to meet the challenges of the future. The strength of the department is in its interdisciplinary nature, which is made possible by a large and diverse staff of academics and performers spanning the whole gamut of the music world today Bachelor of Music and Diploma of Music qualifications are offered in the following areas: Classical Performance - Instrumental Classical Performance - Vocal Composition And Music Technology Contemporary Music Jazz Music Education 82 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
MTC’s What Rhymes With Cars And Girls. Photo: Jeff Busby.
Musical Theatre Australian Institute of Music (02) 9219 5444 enquiries@aim.edu.au www.aim.edu.au Bachelor of Music - Musical Theatre - 2 years (6 trimesters) Diploma of Music - Musical Theatre - 15 Months (4 trimesters) Masters of Music - Musical Theatre This course will help develop an understanding of the broader arena of music theatre. With a purpose built dance space, vocal rooms, cabaret space and rehearsal rooms, students are skilled in the four disciplines of singing, dancing, acting and creating - The Quadruple Threat! Music Theatre students develop the ear of a musician, the body awareness of a dancer, the imagination of an actor, the vision of a director and the fortitude of a producer. www.aim.edu.au/courses/music-theatre#sthash.qYFysdA2.dpuf Brent Street 1300 013 708 info@brentstreet.com.au www.brentstreet.com.au/professionals#mt Diploma of Musical Theatre - 1 year full-time Programmed in consultation with renowned performing artists including Caroline O'Connor, Brent Street's Diploma of Musical Theatre gives aspiring musical theatre professionals the best possible preparation for a career in this demanding industry. The Diploma is a full-time, one year professional development program focused on musical theatre technique and performance at an elite level. The course is designed for students either with a background in singing, dancing and acting or who excel in one or two performance areas and wish to refine their skill sets in the others and extend their musical theatre performance skills to a professional level. Prerequisites Acceptance into this course is by audition only. This course is open to students over the age of 17 who have completed Year 11 secondary education and have an interest and aptitude in the performing arts. www.brentstreet.com.au/dmt2014 (Continued on page 91) www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 83
The VCA: A Force In New Australian Music Theatre
A Little Touch of Chaos performance, 2014. Photo: Jeff Busby. A Little Touch of Chaos rehearsal, 2014. Photo: Drew Echberg.
How can the Australian musical theatre industry better develop, produce and present new Australian musicals? Training Institutions should be part of the answer says Alix Bromley. Debate was ignited in February when theatre director John Senczuk released The Time is Ripe for the Great Australian Musical, a Currency House Platform Paper. The central proposition was the “Perth Solution” - to create a hub for the development and presentation of new musicals, destined for touring Australia and overseas markets, in Perth rather than the major cultural capitals Melbourne and Sydney. The Victorian College of the Arts’ (VCA) Music Theatre program, led by Margot Fenley, has another view. By writing creative development of new works into the Bachelor of Fine Arts (Music Theatre) curriculum, the institution is committed to supporting
new writing on an annual basis. In 2011, the VCA steered Hugo Chiarella and Robert Tripolino’s DreamSong (2011) through creative development to full production, supported by the Ron and Margaret Dobell Foundation and The Geelong Amateur Arts Fund. Then last year, after two years of script and performance workshops, James Millar and Peter Rutherford’s A Little Touch of Chaos (2014) was presented as part of the New Australian Music Theatre Project, generously supported by the State Government through Creative Victoria.
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Twenty-five-year-old Josh Robson, currently performing in the ensemble of Les Misérables, is a VCA alumni committed to new Australian musicals. Robson started a production company with Damien Bermingham called Blue Saint Productions. They opened their first show, Guilty Pleasures, starring Angelique Cassimatis, at Chapel off Chapel in early October 2014, written by Josh Robson and original music by Hugo Chiarella (lyrics) and Robert Tripolino (music). After a second run in Sydney there are plans for more seasons this year. Last year Robson was also awarded the Rob Guest Endowment. He plans to travel across America with the funds, study in New York and gain writing inspiration for another production. Another alumni is 24 -year-old Phoebe Panaretos (Bachelor of Music Theatre, 2011) who was cast as Fran in Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom The Musical. Panaretos says she would have really floundered during the creative development process with Luhrmann without her VCA training, which taught her to harness her individuality. “VCA is really good at stretching you out, making you flexible and opening your eyes to the different possibilities within your creative range,” Panaretos says. After mixed reviews in Sydney, Strictly Ballroom was reduced by 30 minutes. After further workshops and changes, the Melbourne season is going well and it opens in Brisbane on September 10. On opening night of Strictly Ballroom, Panaretos remembers what
production designer Catherine Martin said: “In Australia we just need to stop being scared; we need to be unafraid to embrace individuality on a large scale, on big stage.” Panaretos agrees, “Who wants to see Grease again for the 150th time?! Wouldn’t you love to see Muriel’s Wedding on stage?” The VCA’s new musical program this year commenced in February. Third year students worked with industry professionals on two projects selected from 45 submissions: The New Lonely Planet by Tobias Manderson-Galvin, Ben Ely and Liam Barton and Stealing Picasso by Joel Paszkowski and Tom Reed. For the first time this year, students of the Master of Directing and Master of Dramaturgy are sitting in on developments, observing the fine art of getting a new musical off the ground. Margot Fenley believes we need to create a culture that can better support the development of local music theatre. One that links up existing programs, however small, develops new partnerships and then addresses gaps in funding to support sustainable longevity for new writers, composers and presenters to fully develop and exercise their artistic potential. She’s one of the organisers of a oneday symposium later this year, that will bring together funding bodies, independent producers, theatre companies, writers, composers, directors, musical directors, philanthropists and training institutions with a commitment to creating a National New Music Theatre Network. Fenley sees the VCA as having a significant part to play in this network of organisations, for a range of reasons: “Universities are places of research and development, so to expand our engagement in developing local music theatre just makes sense - for the benefit of our students and for the wider community,” says Fenley. “VCA Music Theatre has wellestablished industry links and there’s been great enthusiasm from everyone I’ve spoken with about the symposium. People are genuinely excited about coming together and look for positive, practical ways to support the development of new Australian musicals, of all kinds.” It seems the time is ripe to embrace our own stories and make them sing. www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 85
Federation Music Theatre Across Two Cities
Thoroughly Modern Millie.
Thoroughly Modern Mil
lie.
Federation University became Australia’s first two city Music Theatre degree in 2015. The first group of students trod the boards in Sydney, supplementing its long standing course at the Ballarat Arts Academy. Under the academic leadership of director/ choreographer David Wynen, Federation Uni is bouncing into 2015 with its offerings in Music Theatre. A highlight will be a full scale production of Thoroughly Modern Millie in the historic Her Majesty’s Theatre Ballarat, followed by The Mystery of Edwin Drood and The Pajama Game with 2nd year students. “I am so proud of what we have achieved at Federation’s Music Theatre Course. So many of our graduates are carrying the torch in about making a real impact in the so many exciting ways. Not only are we theatrical hub of Sydney,” said David producing challenging and wonderful Wynen. work in Ballarat, we are also so excited This year’s graduating Ballarat 86 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
cohort will Showcase in Sydney for the first time in November. They also worked with Fed Uni Music Theatre Patron and icon Miss Nancye Hayes O.A.M./ AM to put together a true Australian Music Theatre presentation for the International Music Theatre Educator’s Alliance Conference at WAAPA in June. Their presentation included excerpts of two Australian musicals set in Ballarat: Eureka and Lola Montez. “Working under pressure sometimes seems to bring out the best in us. And the support and enthusiasm brought to the rehearsal room by the 3rd year course graduates of the Bachelor of Arts Music Theatre degree course confirmed to me why I love being a part of the creative process of ‘putting on a show’,” said Nancye Hayes. “Especially when I can pass on the history of our profession. I know music theatre future is in safe hands and hearts and most importantly talent,
www.federation.edu.au www.sydneytafe.edu.au which I have experienced with this group of students.” The course is known for its bold, vibrant and innovative place in the industry. Wynen isforging ahead with a bold reinvention and this is clearly evident by graduates gracing the insides of so many theatrical programs and the dramatic increase in applicants. The Ballarat Arts Academy course has produced many graduates working in major musicals across the country and internationally. Graduates have worked on Strictly Ballroom, Cirque De Soleil, King Kong, Mamma Mia!, Cats, Les Misérables, Hairspray, Jersey Boys, Mary Poppins, and Wicked to name a few. High profile graduates of the course include: Chris Durling, Cristina D’Agostino, Josh Piterman, Joel Parnis, Jaz Flowers, James Smith, Jared Newall and Graeme Foote. A new chapter will open in 2016 when the inaugural season of works from Sydney students in second year commences.
Thoroughly Modern Millie.
“Your students were brilliant and so present and connected! I was truly impressed with the work you have done there! Every single student that performed was grounded... with a clear story and so prepared.” - Faith Prince (Tony Award winning
performer). “I’m so impressed at the changes you’ve made to the Music Theatre program, and am delighted to see it flourishing under your leadership.” Kim Smith (New York Cabaret artist MAC award winner).
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true to the story. It worked.” The company not only made brave creative decisions, but also managed to achieve full houses. As Producer of the show, Kuo’s role covered organising, liaising contracts, rehearsal schedules, press and PR, with his ultimate focus on making sure that the show worked. “At the end of the day the buck stops with the producer,” he says. “I’m a performer at heart but I thoroughly enjoyed getting the show up as a producer. It was very satisfying and the pressure was kind of appealing.” As most small independent theatre companies already know, making the most with a little, is almost a given. Not to say that Exclaim doesn’t have support. Being alumni from the Australian Institute of Music, the members of Exclaim are also proud of the fact that they all studied at AIM and that AIM is 100% behind what they do. “We are the only independent theatre company of our kind, made up Music Theatre graduates from the “Hair on the other hand is a show exclusively of alumni, that I am aware Australian Institute of Music in Sydney that most people have at least heard of in the country,” says Kuo. “It’s nice have set up a new theatre company to of, if not seen.” This wasn’t to be just to have that support from the school showcase their talents. AIM news any old re-hash of a 70’s musical. where we studied, especially from AIM “Most shows people go to these days spoke with music theatre graduate Music Theatre Head of Department are quite a passive experience, in that turned producer Julian Kuo recently, the audience sits while the performers Jennifer Murphy, who has given us her following their sell out production of full support. AIM helped us with things the Brendan Hay directed musical perform,” says Kuo. “Brendan (our like venues, licensing rights, rehearsal HAIR. director) wanted Hair to be an time and space, marketing and immersive experience, not only on promotion.” stage, but from the moment the It’s not often you’ll meet an Audience response was extremely audience entered to the moment they independent theatre company made positive. The show also attracted the left.” up entirely of musical theatre school interest of well-known Australian alumni, but then again, the Exclaim The production truly was a ‘had to director Darren Yap, who came on Theatre Company is not your average be there’ experience. “We gave one board as a directorial mentor, in audience member a private tepee theatre company. addition to choreographer Bree The company gives the opportunity experience for example,” says Kuo, Langridge, and vocal mentor, Andrew for members to perform, develop skills where each night, a random audience Bukenya. Both Darren and Bree also member was selected and taken off in production, direction, design, teach at AIM. writing and the technical side of the into a tepee, where they became part “Being Exclaim, and being able to of the story. Set ‘in the round’, the craft. put on shows like Hair, also gives us show began right from the design of “These are all the skills we learned exposure to industry theatre people we the foyer entry, to the use of couches, at AIM,” says Kuo. “Exclaim is about would otherwise not ever meet,” says colour, sound, whispering in people’s putting those skills into practice,” he Kuo, who re-iterates how important adds, through the presentation of full ears and much more. “It was very this aspect of building a successful productions, cabaret opportunities and much inclusive,” says Kuo. music theatre career is for the The challenge was to create some skill development workshops. members of Exclaim. “For example, I kind of new shock value. “Back in the In May the group took on the day, Hair used nudity and people were received a call from Darren this production of Hair, giving it a fresh shocked. These days, people are almost morning to congratulate Exclaim on twist for a 2015 audience. putting on The Fantastics later this “We wanted to try a more well too used to nudity,” says Kuo, “so to known show this time round,” says create a sense of being uncomfortable year,” says Kuo. “As theatre artists, we and pushing an audience a little closer also get to invite whomever we want Kuo. “Our first two musicals (Glory to our shows, agents, representatives Days and Spelling Bee) were reasonably to their edge, Brendan went for the immersive experience, whilst still being and the like, to see the work we were obscure,” he adds.
Exclaim: Hair We Are
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doing.” threat of singing, To champion acting, dancing the value of cross and creating. artist pollination Exclaim is not just and integration, about putting on Hair was also able shows however. to procure the They also stage talents of events like ‘read musicians from throughs’, ‘sing the AIM throughs’ and Contemporary workshops for Performance the continual department, who development of made up the 6members. piece band for the Kuo’s passion for show. “This was a Exclaim and for complete AIM putting on high To know more about Exclaim, its members and upcoming shows, visit alumni/student quality theatre is their Facebook page at clearly evident. delivered show, www.facebook.com/ExclaimTheatre from top to tail,” “Providing says Kuo, with 11 named roles and 25 relationship.” creative options for Sydney audiences ensemble members known as ‘the “Proven ability is the hallmark of and putting on affordable theatre is tribe’. As Kuo explains, Exclaim gives Exclaim. It’s one thing to offer and what it’s all about at the end of the opportunity to not only music theatre spruik a course such as Music Theatre day,” says Kuo. “We want to work, we alumni but also to others outside of at AIM, but another to showcase want people to come see what we the genre. “Whether you are a alumni through a company like create, and Exclaim is our vehicle for musician, an actor, a technician, a Exclaim. Our company and shows doing that.” manager, a vocalist or whatever, provide the ‘seeing is believing’ proof So keep an eye out later this year Exclaim is a vehicle for others to get that we can actually do what we have for Exclaim’s production of The involved in working and building a been trained to do,” says Kuo, who is a Fantastics, the longest running show in career,” says Kuo, “it’s a dual strong advocate of the quadruple Off Broadway history.
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exposing your students to musical theatre activities/skills can bring… Through musical theatre students will: develop a love of music and theatre through singing, acting and dancing gain confidence improvising, miming, storytelling and performing learn to truly focus and have self-control, working as part of a team gain the skills to react appropriately and quickly to different situations and scenarios express themselves creatively, with greater empathy and social awareness. Engagement in the Performing Arts has been found to: Does your school provide its students with the opportunity reduce stress and anxiety in children and teens to be involved in a musical theatre production each year or have many cognitive, social, psychological, physical, biannually? Are your creative and emotionally articulate health and spatial benefits for the growing child/teen students being stimulated and provided with an outlet to be beneficial to brain development, memory and other express themselves? If so, great! academic areas (including literacy and numeracy) Undoubtedly your school will have students who thrive improve communication and presentation skills on entertaining others and being the centre of attention. How can a school benefit from recommending their This is fine in the playground, in a drama class or on the students attend a musical theatre class? stage but not so welcome in a maths class. Your school will These classes teach students the skills related to singing, also have students who are a bit shy and need to develop acting and dancing whilst providing them with rehearsal confidence communicating and performing in front of and performance opportunities thus increasing students’ others. A musical theatre production or class can address confidence and skills required in a school musical the needs of all these students whilst developing and production. Additionally, in the high school classes, the nurturing them creatively. teachers help prepare students for auditions through So what if your students don’t aspire to a Performing lectures and holding Master Classes where students can Arts career? That’s fine! But consider all these benefits that perform solo, being critiqued constructively by their peers and teachers. Sending your students to a class means that when it comes to audition time, your school will have more students of a high standard potentially auditioning for principal and ensemble roles. Too often, schools are forced to cancel productions because of “lack of interest” or not enough students with the required skills to pull off the main roles. The author of this article, Ingrid Bass is the Founder and Manager of AApplause Musical Theatre Academy in Sydney, which specialises in weekly musical theatre classes for students from Kindy to Year 12 in Chatswood, Roseville and Killarney Heights. The academy also runs holiday programs, singing/acting workshops and provides performance opportunities for its students, including an annual end-of year cabaret-style soiree.
Why Should Your Students Do Musical Theatre?
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NIDA (02) 9697 7600 info@nida.edu.au Diploma of Musical Theatre - 1 year NIDA’s Diploma of Musical Theatre is an intensive year of practical study, that elevates you to become a ‘triple threat’ singer, dancer, actor. NIDA is able to provide you with the rigour and skill required to get a foothold in musical theatre. The course is industry driven with content delivered by practicing professionals and guest tutors from the performing arts industry. You will be trained to respond creatively to scripts and songs, collaborate effectively with others and to make informed decisions about character interpretation. As a graduate of this course, your skills in acting will be as developed as your skills in singing and dancing. Training is practical, with an even distribution of classes in each of the disciplines of singing, dancing and acting. Assessments take place towards the end of each term. You 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. The course culminates in a showcase attended by music theatre practitioners, producers and agents. www.nida.edu.au/dmt Urban Dance www.urbandance.com.au Diploma of Musical Theatre TAFE Western Sydney 131 870 Diploma in Musical Theatre http://entertainment.wsi.tafensw.edu.au/courses/performing-arts http://entertainment.wsi.tafensw.edu.au/courses/live-sound-and-lighting Actors College of Theatre and Television (ACTT) (02) 9213 4500 http://actt.edu.au Advanced Diploma of Music Theatre - 2 years Steeped within a very strong foundational acting and movement core, musical theatre students are taught to apply their skills across a range of scenarios. Our expert course tutors are able to develop the performer across a holistic spectrum of skills including voice, singing, acting, movement and dance. They also encourage and guide students towards building a strong network of contacts within the music theatre industry. An actor who can also excel in singing and dancing is traditionally known as a ‘triple threat’ as they are able to gain access to many more work opportunities than traditional actors, thanks to extended training in music performance skills. The Advanced Diploma of Music Theatre course is primarily performance based with emphasis on the development of acting, dancing, singing and musical training, and the integration and application of these techniques within a myriad of contexts. Throughout the course, students also learn the art of improvisation and are given scope to explore, analyse and critique a range of different text types and theatrical productions. Focus is also given to empowering the performers to apply their skills to a diverse range of musical opportunities including solo, ensemble and large-scale productions. At ACTT, students can rest assured that they will be taught by highly trained music theatre professionals including choreographers, vocal coaches and movement experts. Our tutors share with their students the competitive skills, industry insights and networks pertinent to their success Prerequisites: Written application Audition No minimum ATAR/UAI required Minimum age of 18 at time of course commencement www.actt.edu.au/courses/advanced-diploma-of-music-theatre www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 91
Canberra Academy of Dramatic Art (RTO 4059) 1300 908 905 admin@cada.net.au www.cada.net.au Diploma of Musical Theatre - 1 year If you are an actor-singer, actor-dancer, or singer-dancer - or wanting to become one - the Diploma of Musical Theatre is for you. In this course you will be refining your acting, vocal and dance technique, performing in a number of live productions including concert nights, cabaret shows, musical theatre works and self-devised work. Using contemporary dance and movement forms as a platform into musical theatre performance, your aim is to work with our expert tutors to integrate your skillset and become a well-rounded, adaptable performer. Vocal studies examine both ensemble work and solo performance. Acting classes focus on building believable, memorable characters. Career preparation includes portfolio and audition technique, industry awareness, and essential business skills. Entry to this course is by group audition (singing/dance/acting). VET Fee-Help Available - study now, pay later www.cada.net.au/musical-theatre.html Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University Phone & Fax: (07) 3735 6111 www.griffith.edu.au/music Bachelor of Musical Theatre - 3 years full time Queensland Conservatorium is the only music school in Australia to offer a Bachelor of Musical Theatre. During the course of this program you will be exposed to diverse musical theatre styles and to the broadly accepted musical skills of aural awareness training, music theory and ensemble work appropriate to this genre. This program will develop your skills through intensive practical training in acting and improvisation, speech, voice, singing, dance and movement, focussing on producing the 'triple-threat' performer - one who is proficient in singing, acting and movement, enabling you to forge a successful career in the industry. Prerequisite: Audition www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=1404 Fame Theatre (07) 3252 4806 Fax: (07) 3256 1500 fametheatre@fametheatre.com www.fametheatre.com Musical Theatre (Registration pending) - 1-2 years part time This course is for people who want to audition for work or further study in the Music Theatre industry, involving a range of settings, including solo, group and full scale productions. With suitable direction, students will act, apply voice and movement in performance, sing and dance individually and in groups from extended to advanced level and develop an individual repertoire of audition and performance material. Students will research the music theatre industry and learn how to manage personal business arrangements, develop a personal vision and career plan. Prerequisites: Audition required Harvest Rain Theatre One year Music Theatre Internship www.harvestrain.com.au/#/internships/4568004180 Victorian College of the Arts University of Melbourne 13 MELB Bachelor of Fine Arts (Music Theatre) - 3 years full-time BVCA Music Theatre is designed as an intensive skills-building program that produces industryready, professional performers with a strong sense of individual expression. The program offers extensive practical training in music theatre’s three principal disciplines singing, acting and dancing - both as individual crafts and in combination. Public performance is an integral part of the program beginning in second year, with fully staged performances in third year and culminating in an industry showcase 92 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
for agents, directors and producers. Music Theatre has a strong focus on, and connection to, Melbourne's thriving music theatre profession and students participate in daily studio-based training with working artists and industry master classes with international guest teachers. The program also encourages the development and performance of new music theatre works. https://vca.unimelb.edu.au/study/degrees/bachelor-of-fine-arts-music-theatre/overview Foundation Program (Music Theatre) - 1 year The Foundation Program is a one-year program that offers a course of study for those music theatre students whose performance skills show potential but who have not attained the required standard in practical and/or theoretical studies for admission to the Bachelor of Fine Arts (Music Theatre). The program develops your skills in acting, singing, dance, spoken voice, movement and body conditioning/technique under the tutelage of professional teaching artists who are experts in their field. The program is an accredited one year enabling course that has Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs). However, the program is presently tuition fee exempt and there will be no tuition fees for the duration of study in this course. Unlike other courses, studying this program will not incur HECS and will not use up any of a student’s Student Learning Entitlement. Completion of this course does not guarantee a place in undergraduate programs offered by the VCA and MCM. The Foundation Program is not an undergraduate degree. https://vca.unimelb.edu.au/study/degrees/foundation-program-music-theatre/overview Spectrum Dance 0433 733 187 (03) 9830 6588 ftc@spectrumdance.com.au www.spectrumdance.com.au Diploma in Musical Theatre (CUA50213) Nationally recognised accreditation Spectrum Dance offers a comprehensive Full Time Performing Arts Program that specialises in the performance and career development of artists. Spectrum Dance provides students the opportunity to excel through specialised teaching techniques whilst focusing on individual development. Our course will develop and advance dance techniques in all genres, build performance skills and provide opportunities to engage in the entertainment industry. Throughout the program, students will become proficient in the arts of singing, dancing and acting. In addition to the Full Time Performing Arts Program students have the option of three nationally recognised accredited certificates to choose from. These courses are offered in partnership with the Australian Teachers of Dancing (RTO#31624). If a student chooses to select an accreditation option they may be eligible for government funding. Federation University 1800 FED UNI (1800 333 864) info@federation.edu.au www.federation.edu.au Bachelor of Music Theatre - 3 years full time Federation University offers a three-year full –time Bachelor of Music Theatre at our Camp Street Campus (Ballarat) and at Sydney TAFE. The Music Theatre degree seeks to develop multi-skilled performers for professional music theatre. The aim of the course is to provide a context for the simultaneous development of skills in singing, acting and dancing. The student is encouraged to create new work and explore the history and theoretical basis of contemporary music theatre. Subjects include: Singing, Acting, Dancing, Music Theatre Studio, Music Theory and Critical Studies. Studio and public performances occur at each level of the program. Previous study in singing, dancing and / or music is an advantage. Successful completion of this program will enable you to emerge as a performer with a specialisation in Music Theatre, with the knowledge and skills to: Demonstrate specific acting skills on stage or screen Demonstrate flexibility and range in singing and vocal skills Demonstrate flexibility and range in dance and movement skills Understand the performing arts heritage Synthesise performance skills, creative processes, production and management skills Display a sensitivity to the needs and reactions of other theatre workers and collaborators www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 93
Research and contribute to the creation of characters and the collaborative process of performance-making Write and compose for music theatre and the collaborative process of performance making http://programfinder.federation.edu.au/ProgramFinder/displayProgram.jsp?ID=179 Bachelor of Music (Performance) Bachelor of Dance (Performance) Master of Music (Performance) Centrestage Performing Arts School (03) 9380 8480 (ext 1) Fax: (03) 9380 8371 reception@centrestageschool.com.au www.showfit.com.au Showfit - 1 year full time A Centrestage initiative, Showfit is a 12 month fulltime Musical Theatre course for students with a strong skill base in performing arts and an openness to developing all three areas of acting, singing and dancing equally. The notion of becoming a triple threat is the driving thread throughout the year. Directors, Simon Gleeson and Leanne White and Musical Director Mathew Frank lead respected industry professionals from both Australia and overseas to provide the very best all round training. This one year course has been an overwhelming success in either spring boarding actors straight into Industry work or giving them the skills to successfully audition and gain places into 3 year degree Musical Theatre courses. Prerequisites: Finished Secondary training and successfully auditioned for the course. There is a four hour audition process of Singing, Dancing and Acting. Michelle Slater Performing Arts Studio Diploma of Musical Theatre - Full-time and part-time Dance Factory (03) 9429 9492 dancefac@netspace.net.au www.dancefactory.com.au Diploma of Musical Theatre (CUA50213) - 1 year full time or 2 years part time Courses are accredited with ASQA and CRICOS for international students, and as such open a range of state and federal supports to students, as well as a recognised higher education pathway. Dance Factory graduates are performing across Australia, Asia, the West End, New York, cruise ships, Universal Studios and Disneyland, not to mention teaching, choreographing and producing across Australia and internationally. WAAPA Edith Cowan University PH: 134 ECU (134 328) enquiries@ecu.edu.au Bachelor of Arts (Music Theatre) WAAPA’s acclaimed Music Theatre course provides graduates with the skills and experience required to engage in professional theatre practice. Music Theatre students work closely with WAAPA’s world class teaching staff and specialist tutors who share the knowledge and skills they have gained through professional performance careers. The Music Theatre program provides intensive technical training in singing, dancing and acting to develop the professionally acknowledged ‘triple threat ’performer. In addition to these core skills, students are instructed in film, television and radio techniques to train them for a wide range of roles in the performing arts. There is also a strong focus on preparing students for professional audition. Practical training is complemented by the study of dramatic literature, the history of music theatre and arts management. Students integrate their class studies with performance training throughout the course in classroom presentations, workshops, chamber music theatre and full-scale musical productions. Prerequisites: 94 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
Applications are submitted directly to WAAPA via the Online Admission System. Admission is based on a comprehensive audition and interview. Certificate IV In Musical Theatre This nationally recognised qualification is a one year vocational program at WAAPA assisting students in gaining more experience in the areas of song, dance and acting. It focuses on audition techniques and develops the student’s ability and knowledge in the area of music theatre. On completion, successful students can apply and audition for the Bachelor of Music Theatre. Prerequisites: Applications are submitted directly to WAAPA via the Online Admission System. Admission is based on a comprehensive audition and interview where the candidate can demonstrate competence in vocal, dance and/or acting skills at Certificate III level. NASDA - National Academy of Singing and Dramatic Art Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology +64 3 940 8464 www.nasda.co.nz Bachelor of Performing Arts (Music Theatre) - 3 years NASDA is dedicated to excellence in music theatre training and aims to produce fully integrated performers capable of employment throughout the performing arts industry. The successful performer anywhere in the industry today needs to be versatile and dynamic, with an ability to act, sing, and dance. The Bachelor of Performing Arts (Music Theatre) is a unique qualification which combines these disciplines, providing a comprehensively integrated course with a good balance between practical skills and academic rigour. The degree’s course of study incorporates individual singing lessons and classes in acting, tap, jazz and ballet, physical theatre, musicianship, chorus, performance masterclasses, theatre studies and research. Throughout the year students also perform in a busy programme of plays, musicals, musical theatre ensembles, concerts, road-shows to schools and a season of cabaret. The NASDA staff is a group of highly skilled and experienced professionals who work collaboratively to help each student maximise his or her potential. Because we are a part of CPIT our students are able to study at an institution that has built a tradition of excellence in tertiary education for over 100 years, and offers courses in a wide range of related areas. Graduates from NASDA can be found working successfully in all areas of the arts profession and entertainment industry including film, television, theatre and musical theatre, radio and in other performance events in New Zealand, Australia and Europe. A number of students have gone on to study at postgraduate level. NASDA is a place where talent, both obvious and hidden, is developed to the highest level.
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Sound and Light
Toi Whakaari NZ Drama School’s As You Like It Photo: Philip Merry.
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A Career In Lights
Sarah Jane Doig is fulfilling her ambition of working in theatre as a Lighting Technician at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC).
and practical experience across the technical disciplines, stage management, lighting, sound and staging.” During Sarah’s time at Coomera, Sarah recently worked on The Lion she was involved in the production of two musicals. King and Wicked and has attributed “We started at the very beginning her fast-tracked success to her time at TAFE Queensland Gold Coast’s with script analysis and moved through Coomera campus. all the steps of the process including “I have long had a passion for live production meetings, budgeting, design, construction, implementation, productions, having always been rehearsals, the performance season, fascinated by the technical elements, such as the placement of a set piece or and bump out. It was very gratifying to a lighting effect,” said Sarah. see projects through from the “Going to the theatre quickly beginning to the end. “As a creative hub, the Coomera became my favourite way to spend my free time and it didn’t take long before campus offers an excellent modern facility, staffed with experienced and I decided to turn my passion for theatre into my career. passionate industry professionals. It has “I put my previous career path on its own theatre spaces and recording hold and enrolled in a Certificate IV in studios, equipped with the same equipment that a graduate will Live Production, Theatre and Events through TAFE Queensland Gold Coast encounter in the broader industry. at Coomera, which is their renowned “The campus and its instructors creative industries campus. have a relationship with the local “The course was a multi-disciplinary industry, enabling students to be involved with productions outside of introduction to technical production, meaning I was exposed to both theory the campus, providing an opportunity
to meet industry professionals and learn in real-world venues.” Whilst Sarah enjoyed learning sound production and staging, it was lighting that really caught her attention. “I worked as a follow spot operator on the Brisbane seasons of The Lion King and Wicked. When I have time I also do some stage management work.” Sarah believes that her time studying at TAFE Queensland gave her the practical skills needed to get into the industry and excel within her job at QPAC. “This course, combined with my other experience and skills, equipped me to move into my current role as a Lighting Technician at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. While I continue to learn new things every day, the theory and practical skills I gained through my studies gave me the grounding I needed to build my new career path upon.”
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Technical Tips For Schools we buy four radio mics? There is not much point when you need 18 to do the show. Unless the school has a dedicated member of staff who looks after those things they end up in a state of disrepair very quickly. They are better off hiring, because they are not going to use it until the next year.”
Loud and Clear Les Mis crew at Shore, Sydney.
Stage Whispers asked our technical gurus for their most important tips in audio, lighting and building theatres for schools staging musicals or plays. Loud and Clear (Sydney) www.loudandclear.com.au David Betterridge “A lot of the time they might think that the equipment in the school is
Factory Sound (Melbourne) www.factorysound.com Artie Jones “Check your wireless frequencies. That is pertinent. Some people’s wirelesses in the old range between 694 to 800 megahertz are still working in a few situations. That is in a sound check or rehearsal when there are only a few people milling around. The problem is when people come to the performance and they all bring their smart phones with them; that is when they don’t work. “Make sure you have done a scan in adequate for a show. By that I mean the sound system for the school hall. A the area for any problems in your own frequency. If you are hiring somebody, lot of the time it is not. It is there to reinforce the headmaster at assembly. make sure they are doing it. If you are It is not going to cut it for a musical for buying wireless, make sure you are kids, who do not sing very loudly, over buying in the correct frequency banks. There will be different frequencies in a bunch of squealing instruments. different parts of Australia.” “In most cases they are better off hiring equipment than buying it. Quite a few schools come to us and say can
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GoboTech (Gold Coast) www.gobotech.com.au Joakim Odlander “The biggest problem is people being afraid of using what they have got. They think a professional set it up once and they are too nervous to change it, so they don’t end up using their equipment. “You need someone in the school who is passionate about the equipment. It needs to be simple enough so that they use it. When they put in a complex sound or light desk, they get flustered by all the buttons. “As far as Gobos are concerned, schools need to make sure their profiles (lights) have Gobo holders, so they can utilise the equipment they have got. Selecon Phillips (New Zealand) www.seleconlight.com Stuart Mitchell “Understanding the show is the most important thing, and knowing what gear you have and what you can hire in. “Government schools are generally under resourced to put on a big show. A school I helped had four dimmer packs and around 20 lights. They were side, wash, frenels and profiles. They had to hire most of the kit to stage Les Misérables. They had less than fifty percent of the kit to do a decent show. That is fairly normal. “The biggest mistake is overdesigning; trying to do too much.”
Impro Mafia used 2 stainless steel gobos at the Brisbane Powerhouse last year for their Theatre Sports production. Photo: Gobotech.
Light Wavez Design (Melbourne) www.lightwavezdesign.com.au Trish Carr “The biggest trap schools fall into is they want every child to have a part but their audio budget does not match it. Companies charge them huge amounts for radio microphones. They are better off hiring a group of hanging microphones, rather than the
living nightmare of sharing eight radio microphones among thirty children. “For lighting, all the parents want is to see the kids. If you have money to buy equipment you should consider LED - although they are more expensive, they offer flexibility and are cheap to run.” (Continued on page 100)
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Westlake Boys High School, Auckland’s 2003 production of Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Photo: Philips Selecon.
lighting in an educational environment, “Very few schools can afford a rather than a Drama department giving dedicated performing arts space, so Barbizon Lighting (Sydney) up and getting an external company in. inevitably schools want the biggest www.barbizon.com.au We want students involved.” bang for their buck to make it work for Paul Lewis a number of things. “The biggest thing for me is making Jands (Sydney) “Also never be scared of the found sure there is a lot of student interaction www.jands.com.au place. I have seen terrific studios in in the lighting prep where it is safe for John Buckley unwanted spaces in school campuses. them to do the rigging. If an external “Jands has helped put together Places that look like a dungeon or a company is brought in you can still get dozens of entertainment venues for storeroom can be incredible studios for them involved. schools. drama. “We do light operations that are “The most important thing is to get “It might not suit grand musical pole operated so that students and an architect who has experience in theatre but absolutely suit a teachers don’t have to climb ladders. performing arts venues. They Shakespeare or student monologues.” This includes LED lights. understand the dynamics about how a “We are finding ways of setting up performing arts venue works. (Continued from page 99)
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Actor’s College of Theatre and Television (02) 9213 4500 info@actt.edu.au Certificate III in Live Production Theatre & Events (Technical Operations) (CUE30203) Certificate IV in Live Production, Theatre & Events (Technical Operations) (CUE40303) www.actt.edu.au/courses/advanced-diploma-of-live-production-management-services NIDA (02) 9697 7600 info@nida.edu.au Bachelor of Dramatic Art (Production) - 3 years The course is structured into two areas: the formal teaching component delivering detailed theoretical and practical applications of technical production subjects combined with a practical component where students take active roles in the staging of NIDA events and productions. Industry placements or professional work placements are a feature of the final year of the course. They allow students the opportunity to experience first hand a professional working environment through an extended period of observation and professional practice. These provide the opportunity to establish industry contacts and can often lead to future employment prospects. www.nida.edu.au/default.aspx?FolderID=65 JMC Academy (02) 8241 8899 www.jmcacademy.edu.au Diploma of Audio Engineering and Sound Production - 2 trimesters (30 weeks) full time www.jmcacademy.edu.au/courses/audio-engineering-sound-production Associate Degree of Audio Engineering and Sound Production - 4 trimesters (60 weeks) full time www.jmcacademy.edu.au/courses/audio-engineering-sound-production Bachelor of Creative Technology (Audio Engineering and Sound Production) - 6 trimesters (90 weeks) full time www.jmcacademy.edu.au/courses/audio-engineering-sound-production TAFE Western Sydney http://entertainment.wsi.tafensw.edu.au/courses/live-sound-and-lighting Live Production Certificates and Diplomas Australian Institute of Music (02) 9219 5444 www.aim.edu.au/courses/acting-theatre Bachelor of Music - Audio Engineering - 2 years (6 trimesters) Diploma of Music - Audio Engineering - 15 months (4 trimesters) Masters of Music - Audio Engineering This audio course is for students who want to follow a career as a sound engineer, music producer, or audio specialist, with a focus on technical production skills. Students develop professional skills in critical listening, recording, mixing, studio and live sound. AIM's audio course is delivered by some of the finest Audio teachers in Australia. There is a high component of collaboration as audio students work with other AIM students including composers, musicians, performers and actors to complete major recording projects. www.aim.edu.au/courses/audio-engineering#sthash.713zsQbq.dpuf
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TAFE Queensland Gold Coast (07) 5581 8300 gold.coast@tafe.qld.edu.au http://tafegoldcoast.edu.au Certificate III in Live Production, Theatre and Events (Technical Operations) This program is designed to reflect the role of individuals who work in technical production areas and perform a range of skilled tasks using discretion and judgement, and who have the ability to select, adapt and transfer skills to different work situations. Certificate III is generally accepted as the industry entry-level qualification. TAFE Queensland Gold Coast has designed this program to meet a broad range of work outcomes. It reflects the need for multi-skilling whilst focusing on specific entry-level work areas including industry practice, audio-visual, lighting, occupational health and safety, and staging elements. http://tafegoldcoast.edu.au/course/creative-arts/12110/certificate-iii-live-production-theatre-events-technical-operations Diploma of Sound Production This program is ideal for people who have existing talent as performers and/or song writers that wish to acquire the skills and knowledge to produce their own music to a professional standard, as well as people with a passion for sound and music that would like a career in the industry but are not necessarily performers themselves. Students develop their skills and experience through practical tasks and delivery, based on real workplace projects including recording sessions and live events. http://tafegoldcoast.edu.au/course/creative-arts/11517/diploma-sound-production Diploma of Screen and Media Obtain skills in pre-production, production, lighting, digital audio, video editing, 3D modelling, 3D animation, production project management and post-production stages of screen and media projects http://tafegoldcoast.edu.au/course/creative-arts/11407/diploma-screen-media Griffith University Queensland Conservatorium of Music (07) 3735 7111 (Brisbane) (07) 5552 8800 (Gold Coast) www.griffith.edu.au Bachelor of Music Technology - 3 years full-time Music technology is at the centre of much of today's modern music whether it is for the recording industry, concert events, or online. This program will teach you how to blend your musical talents with acquired technical skills and developed artistic ability so that you progress a thorough understanding the role technology plays in the creation of music through production, recording and performance to applying these skills and knowledge professionally. You will also gain invaluable practical experience in applying creative technology to real situations by working with an extensive range of studios, labs, events and ensembles at the Conservatorium. Prerequisites: English 4SA, Maths A, B or C 4SA plus folio of recorded work www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=1195 Bachelor of Music Technology with Honours - 1 year full-time This program will prepare talented undergraduate students studying music technology for entry into Masters or Doctoral studies by developing their research skills and broadening the scope of both research method and creative practice. The program comprises of coursework and a dissertation. Prerequisites: Completed all three years of the degree requirements of the 1195 Bachelor of Music Technology or hold an equivalent three or four year degree in music technology from a recognized university; achieved a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 5.6 (on a scale of 7.0) or equivalent from a recognized university (consideration will be given to students who achieve a minimum GPA of 5.6 in the final year of their program); have at least a Distinction in each of the third year major study courses 3719QCM Sound Production Projects and 3729QCM Sound Production Projects or demonstrate a standard equivalent to a Distinction in final year Music Technology major area of study from a recognized university; have at least a Distinction in each of the third year technology literature courses 3711QCM Music Technology and 3721QCM Music Technology or have a good general academic record including a standard equivalent to a Distinction in courses involving a written research component or equivalent from a recognized university. www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=2049 Certificate in Music Technology - 1 year part-time 102 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
The music industry offers a diverse range of opportunities. This program will help you to develop your knowledge by addressing key technology topics, including sound recording, sound engineering, MIDI and theory-based topics. Prerequisites: English 4SA, Maths A, B or C 4SA plus folio of recorded work www148.griffith.edu.au/degree-career-finder/Program/OverviewAndFees?ProgramCode=9298 Certificate in Popular Music Technology - 1 Year Part-time This is the path for you if your earlier studies in music have not been sufficient for entry into the Bachelor of Popular Music. The music industry offers a diverse range of opportunities. This certificate program will help you to develop your knowledge by addressing key technology topics including sound recording, sound engineering, MIDI and theory-based topics. Prerequisites: English 4SA plus audition and folio of recorded work Queensland University of Technology (07) 3138 2000 askqut@qut.edu.au Bachelor of Fine Arts (Technical Production) - 3 years full-time This course provides you with fundamental skills in stage management, lighting, sound, multimedia production, costume, props, stage mechanics, scenery construction and theatre design. You’ll also have the opportunity to specialise in a particular area of live production and access to industry- based learning and placements. Graduates work for companies and shows all over the world as stage managers, production managers, lighting, sound and scenic designers, technical programmers and operators, tour managers, technical directors and in the areas of props, costumes and stage mechanics, theatrical flying and automation. They work across all types of live production and performance including classical and contemporary music, theatre, dance, circus, ballet, festivals, opera, corporate theatre, sports production including opening and closing ceremonies, and large public performance events. www.qut.edu.au/study/international-courses/bachelor-of-fine-arts/bachelor-of-fine-arts-technical-production
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Federation University 1800 FED UNI (1800 333 864) info@federation.edu.au www.federation.edu.au Diploma of Live Production and Technical Services The Diploma of Live Production and Technical Services is for people committed to becoming versatile and skilled workers in the entertainment industry. The first year of the course provides students with the opportunity to operate and supervise the use of a wide range of sophisticated lighting, sound and vision equipment. The learning environment is intensely practical. Much of the learning and teaching takes place during a series of live performances where all operational and management positions are undertaken by students. http://programfinder.federation.edu.au/ProgramFinder/displayProgram.jsp?ID=186 Advanced Diploma of Live Production and Management Services Work behind the scenes to create the next theatrical blockbuster. Skilled theatrical technicians are in demand and have a wide variety of career options. Our advanced diploma is designed to make you job ready with highly developed skills in sound and lighting techniques as well as the ability to enter careers in stage and production management. The learning environment is intensely practical. Much of the learning and teaching takes place during a series of live performances where all operational and management positions are undertaken by students. Box Hill Institute of TAFE 1300 BOX HILL (1300 269 445) info@boxhill.edu.au Advanced Diploma of Sound Production You will develop a high level of skills and practise within the recording industry, including skills of the studio engineer and record producer. This course incorporates advanced studies in industry standards of software and hardware, including ProTools, as well as advanced microphone techniques and session management skills. www.bhtafe.edu.au/courses/local/Pages/MUSP6.aspx Certificate III in Sound Production Victorian College of the Arts University of Melbourne 13 MELB Postgraduate Diploma in Performance Creation (Design, Lighting Design, Sound Design) The Postgraduate Diploma in Performance Creation brings together choreographers, directors, designers, and animateurs in a program which enables distinct discipline specialisations as well as collaborative and interdisciplinary projects through common subject areas. The course is focused on nurturing and developing arts practitioners who will contribute through leadership, research and performance development to Australian culture in the arts. This is an intensive practicebased graduate coursework degree, taking one year of full-time study with streams available in Animateuring, Choreography, Directing, Design (Set and Costume), Lighting Design, and Sound Design. http://vca.unimelb.edu.au/pgdipp Victoria University (03) 9919 3204 music@vu.edu.au Advanced Diploma of Sound Production A variety of music technology and related fields will be open to you, including the studio, live sound, MIDI, digital audio editing, collaboration and management. www.vu.edu.au/courses/advanced-diploma-of-sound-production-cus60209
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WAAPA Edith Cowan University PH: 134 ECU (134 328) enquiries@ecu.edu.au Advanced Diploma of Live Production and Management Services Diploma of Live Production and Technical Services WAAPA’s Production and Design programs prepare students in a range of interpretive and technical theatre disciplines through teaching methods designed to recognise and refine the skills and potential of each individual. Unparalleled in any other Australasian arts training institution, WAAPA provides Production and Design students with the greatest diversity of ‘on the job’ theatrical experiences. Our students have access to simulated industry training in the design, construction and management of the Academy’s annual repertoire of 30 plus productions, utilising our seven diverse performance venues, as well as numerous external performance spaces. WAAPA’s professionally staffed and equipped workshop and wardrobe facilities, along with state-of-the-art lighting and sound studios, give students immediate ‘hands-on’ access to all production development, construction and staging processes associated with the most up-to-date industry expectation and practice. Incorporating a provocative mix of national and international professional directors, teachers and supervisors, WAAPA’s year-long season of drama, music theatre, dance, opera, films and jazz, classical and contemporary music concerts gives our Production and Design graduates the winning edge in preparation for a seamless transition into a wide range of careers within the creative and technical industries both here and abroad. Admission Requirements: Applications are submitted directly to WAAPA via the Online Admission System. Admission is based on portfolio and interview. Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School +64 4 381 9251 Fax: +64 4 389 4996 apply@toiwhakaari.ac.nz www.toiwhakaari.ac.nz Diploma in Entertainment Technology - 2 years full-time The first year of the course focuses on the function and operation of key areas of theatre and event production. Students learn the basics of electrical theory, lighting design and operation, costume, sound mechanics and design, set building and design, production and stage management, stage mechanics and AV. In the second year the focus is on developing a deeper understanding and familiarity of process through a range of elective units. Students apply their skills and knowledge to production projects supported by specialised block courses and industry secondments. Each student is seconded to at least one professional theatre company, film crew or performing arts organisation. Prerequisites: There are no educational prerequisites however a good level of physical fitness is essential. Entry is by application form and interview. www.toiwhakaari.ac.nz/study-at-toi-whakaari/entertainment-technology NIDA’s The Roaring Girl. Image courtesy of NIDA. Photo: Lisa Maree Williams.
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Stage Management
Kirby Burgess and Kurt Phelan in Footloose. Photo: Jeff Busby.
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A Year In The Life Of A Stage Manager
Performing Arts courses have no trouble attracting thousands of would be actors and singers to audition, but if you’re after an exciting career, working backstage might be more the answer. The Actors College of Theatre and Television (ACTT) in Sydney asked two of their tutors in Stage Management what they actually get up to.
House before touring it up the East Coast. I returned to start on Daylight Saving, an Australian play by the late, great Nick Enright at the Eternity Playhouse with a fantastic cast. “Next was a children’s puppet show, Charlie & Lola’s Extremely New Play, which we toured to Melbourne and Perth over summer. I’m now approaching 80 shows as Deputy Stage Manager on Strictly Ballroom The Musical (directed by Baz Luhrman) in So, what do Stage Managers actually do? ACTT says everything. They Melbourne, and many more to go.” are leaders, organisers, managers, artist Farlie Goodwin trained as a Stage liaisers, show-callers, babysitters, and Manager at The London Academy of teachers, generally all at the same time. Music and Dramatic Arts. Here’s a Stage Managers are the individuals who snapshot of Farlie’s past year. “I was recently offered a ‘Job of a make sure everything goes according to plan, from first rehearsals to the Lifetime’, as Stage Manager on the performance, and are imperative in Russian Opera Eugene Onegin, for a creating a successful live production. national tour of Norway, working for a Ryan Tate is a graduate of ACTT’s wonderful company called NOSO (Nord Norway Opera and Symphony Advanced Diploma of Stage Orchestra). My first thought was Management. His theatre credits since 2006 include Priscilla, Queen of the “Brilliant, I get to be paid to travel in a Desert, Bell Shakespeare’s Taming of new country - a holiday!” My second the Shrew, and 42nd Street. He was thought was “How am I going to also Venue Co-ordinator of the London understand the language and be able to do my job correctly?” which caused no 2012 Olympic Games Opening and small amount of fear. Closing ceremonies. “On the first day I realized that 90% “In the past year I got to open a new Children’s play, The Incredible of rehearsals would be in Norwegian and, very quickly, that stage Book Eating Boy at the Sydney Opera
management in Norway is not the same as in Australia. I had to train the director, the performers and the creatives in my way of stage management. This caused some tension, especially dealing with a second language, but ultimately it resulted in great appreciation of stage management, communication and the ability to overcome challenges. “I can now confidently say that music is an entirely international language, understood by all. It was an experience of a lifetime because I got the opportunity to share my love of stage management, to work with amazing international performers and, of course, have a great holiday in Norway. I’ll be going back next year.” ACTT’s Advanced Diploma of Live Production and Management Services will prepare students for all manner of theatre productions, large-scale events, such as the Olympic Opening and Closing ceremonies that Ryan worked on, to festivals, galas and corporate functions. More importantly, it will teach invaluable skills in management and communication that can be applied to any job in any industry.
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Staging The Olympic Games
Alycia Stanley has worked all around the world in Event and Festival Operations and Logistics. Completing her Bachelor of Arts (Design for Theatre and TV) at Charles Sturt University in 1999, Alycia Stanley has experience across the mediums of theatre, film, television and events. Alycia was given a fantastic introduction to the rigors of setting up outdoor events in all weather conditions when she landed her first role at the Croc Festival, staged in remote outback locations. Continuing her work on large scale events, Alycia worked with the Premiers Department of NSW on the Australia Day events in Hyde Park and the 75th Anniversary of Sydney Harbour Bridge Opening in 2007. Specialising in event operations and logistics, Alycia coordinated many different event components such as signage, radios, vehicles, parking, accreditation and crew catering.
In early 2009, Alycia decided she wanted to work on the Vancouver Winter Olympics, so she set off for Vancouver a few months ahead of the Games and scored a job working as part of the Logistics team in the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. This was Alycia’s first ‘Games’ experience, where she was part of the team managing the crew and load in and out of all the FF&E (Furniture, Fittings and Equipment).
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This led to more opportunities and experiences in large sporting events, such as the Commonwealth Games in Delhi, India, and the Olympic Games in London as part of the “look team”, a Games term referring to the department responsible for ensuring venues look great for the athletes, spectators and cameras. Alycia went on to work on the Glasgow Commonwealth Games managing a team of seven staff and 50+ crew to ensure all noncompetition and training venues had their Logistics needs met. Alycia has also worked on large scale arts events such as the Edinburgh Fringe and Sydney Festival, and recognises the impact her CSU education has had on her career. 'Despite veering into events and festivals and away from theatre, I still use many of the skills I learnt at CSU on jobs today.' 'The practical experience that was a key part of the course was extremely beneficial.'
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Actor’s College of Theatre and TV (JMC Academy) (02) 9213 4500 info@actt.edu.au www.actt.edu.au Advanced Diploma of Stage Management (CUE60303) - 1 year Nationally Endorsed Training Approved for Austudy Approved for international student visas Recognised by the industry Excellent industry secondments Good employment prospects www.actt.edu.au/stage-management NIDA (02) 9697 7600 info@nida.edu.au Bachelor of Fine Arts (Technical Theatre and Stage Management) - 3 years NIDA’s Bachelor of Fine Arts (Technical Theatre and Stage Management) focuses on the innovative and effective ways successful practitioners integrate technical fields and collaborate within live performance, film, television and event contexts. At its core, the course deals specifically with the realisation and management of the points of intersection that occur between technology and performance. This is a holistic technical production course that provides education and training to the technical theatre practitioners and stage managers of the future. A key feature is the broad range of knowledge and experience with which students engage during the course. This breadth of experience prepares students to succeed in leadership roles that require creative, technical and managerial expertise across multiple technical fields. Students are introduced to practices, procedures, history and technologies across the fields of stage management, lighting, audio, technical drawing, staging and multimedia. They learn methods for recording and integrating information in a variety of discipline-appropriate documentary forms, gain skills in, project management, people management and technical management, and learn how to apply all of their acquired skills and knowledge on largescale, cross-disciplinary collaborative projects. The course equips students with the specific knowledge and skills to pursue careers in a range of technical fields within the live performance and event industries. Graduates of the course are especially suited to careers in technical management, stage management, technical design, production management, lighting, audio and theatrical multimedia systems. www.nida.edu.au/technical-theatre University of Southern Queensland 1800 269 500 study@usq.edu.au Bachelor of Creative Arts (Stage Management Major) www.usq.edu.au/arts/studyareas/creativearts Queensland University of Technology (07) 3138 2000 askqut@qut.edu.au Bachelor of Fine Arts (Technical Production) - 3 years full-time This course provides you with fundamental skills in stage management, lighting, sound, multimedia production, costume, props, stage mechanics, scenery construction and theatre design. You’ll also have the opportunity to specialise in a particular area of live production and access to industry- based learning and placements. Graduates work for companies and shows all over the world as stage managers, production managers, lighting, sound and scenic designers, technical programmers and operators, tour managers, technical directors and in the areas of props, costumes and stage mechanics, theatrical flying and automation. They work across all types of live production and performance including classical and contemporary music, theatre, dance, circus, ballet, festivals, opera, corporate theatre, sports production including opening and closing ceremonies, and large public performance events. www.qut.edu.au/study/international-courses/bachelor-of-fine-arts/bachelor-of-fine-arts-technical-production 110 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
Tasmanian Polytechnic (03) 6220 3133 enquiries@academy.tas.edu.au Diploma Of Live Production, Theatre And Events (Technical Production) The course aims to provide graduates with the broad-based knowledge and practical skills required to gain and sustain professional employment in the arts and entertainment industry; as a member of the technical crew on a show/event as an employee of a theatre based or independent production company as a member or leader in events at a variety of venues. Victorian College of the Arts University of Melbourne 13 MELB Bachelor of Fine Arts (Production) Students major in one of three areas: Performance Technology; Stage Management; or Design Realisation; whilst still being exposed to all aspects of performance production - set, costume, lighting, multimedia and sound technology and design, workshop and costume construction, and stage and production management. Intensive delivery of skills and practice takes place through studio based training and direct application of these skills to rehearsals and productions. The course provides students with the opportunity to participate in productions staged within the VCA - in the School of Performing Arts (collaborations with Dance and Theatre) and Music Theatre projects; and beyond the VCA through projects and secondments with professional companies. Graduates of this course have a tradition of high employment success. Graduates demonstrate capacities for artistic imagination, creativity, transformation and interpretation. They work at various levels, both as an individual and as a team member, in a wide variety of visual/performing arts environments including: work on large-scale events; major festivals; theatre, dance and music theatre productions. http://vca.unimelb.edu.au/bfaproduction SEDA 1300 11 7332 www.segagroup.com.au/arts SEDA Arts Development Program (Year 11 and 12 Students) SEDA Arts Development Program offers year 11 and 12 students an engaging curriculum within the Arts industry. Students create pathways for their future into employment or further study. Qualifications: Program One: Foundation VCAL VET Certificate Level Community Dance Theatre Events Program Two: Senior VCAL VET Certificate Level Community Theatre Events Program Three: VET Certificate and Diploma Level Community Diploma of Events SEDA partners with Arts industry experts to provide students with a rich and meaningful educational experience. SEDA www.stagewhispers.com.au Stage Whispers 111
students have access to industry staff and practical real life experiences, enabling them to gain a holistic understanding and appreciation of the arts industry. These opportunities allow them to continually build key contacts and networks that assist them in their further education and or career path of their choosing. Industry Partners: Arena Theatre Company The Song Room Key Relationships: Platform Youth Theatre Clearlight La Mama WAAPA Edith Cowan University PH: 134 ECU (134 328) enquiries@ecu.edu.au Advanced Diploma of Live Production and Management Services Diploma of Live Production and Technical Services WAAPA’s Production and Design programs prepare students in a range of interpretive and technical theatre disciplines through teaching methods designed to recognise and refine the skills and potential of each individual. Unparalleled in any other Australasian arts training institution, WAAPA provides Production and Design students with the greatest diversity of ‘on the job’ theatrical experiences. Our students have access to simulated industry training in the design, construction and management of the Academy’s annual repertoire of 30 plus productions, utilising our seven diverse performance venues, as well as numerous external performance spaces. WAAPA’s professionally staffed and equipped workshop and wardrobe facilities, along with state-of-the-art lighting and sound studios, give students immediate ‘hands-on’ access to all production development, construction and staging processes associated with the most up-to-date industry expectation and practice. Incorporating a provocative mix of national and international professional directors, teachers and supervisors, WAAPA’s year-long season of drama, music theatre, dance, opera, films and jazz, classical and contemporary music concerts gives our Production and Design graduates the winning edge in preparation for a seamless transition into a wide range of careers within the creative and technical industries both here and abroad. Admission Requirements: Applications are submitted directly to WAAPA via the Online Admission System. Admission is based on portfolio and interview. Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School +64 4 381 9251 Fax: +64 4 389 4996 apply@toiwhakaari.ac.nz www.toiwhakaari.ac.nz Bachelor of Performing Arts (Management) 3 years full-time The first year of the course focuses on key areas in theatre production. Students gain basic skills in a broad range of production areas including lighting design and operation, costume, sound mechanics and design, set building and design, production and stage management, stage mechanics and AV. In the second year there is a focus on developing a deeper understanding of process through a series of elective units. Students apply their skills to production activity; reinforced with block courses and industry secondments. The third year is dedicated to developing business and leadership skills in a range of management, leadership and administration areas. This includes events, stage, production and financial management and performance research and development. Prerequisites: There are no educational prerequisites however a good level of physical fitness is essential. Entry is by application form and interview. www.toiwhakaari.ac.nz/study-at-toi-whakaari/performing-arts-management 112 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
Voice
Abi Tucker in Bell Shakespeare’s As You Like It. Photo: Rush.
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Sydney Conservatorium of Music University of Sydney (02) 9036 6530 Graduate Diploma (Opera) | Master of Music Studies (Opera) The study of opera within the Master of Music Studies and Graduate Diploma (Opera) is designed to meet the needs of graduate opera students who wish to extend their technical knowledge of the repertoire and performance practice. It is intended for graduates and professional singers who wish to enhance the skills required on the opera and music theatre stage. http://sydney.edu.au/handbooks/conservatorium/postgraduate/coursework/opera.shtml Griffith University Queensland Conservatorium of Music (07) 3735 7111 Graduate Diploma of Music - Opera Performance - South Bank (QCGU) (Vocal or Opera) www14.griffith.edu.au/cis/p_cat/require.asp?ProgCode=4112&Type=require Victorian College of the Arts The University of Melbourne 13 MELB http://vca.unimelb.edu.au Postgraduate Certificate In Voice Studies - 1 year part-time This course is designed to provide study and practice in voice for individuals who wish to follow a career in voice teaching. It is particularly likely to appeal to professionals who already have a knowledge and interest in the voice e.g. actors, directors, drama teachers and trained singers. The program develops your skills in the practice of using voice, language and text including diagnostic tools for enhancing voice practice and your own approach for working with the relationship between voice, speech and text. As the development of voice skills is a physical training, to gain full benefit from the course it is expected that you develop your own daily practice. https://vca.unimelb.edu.au/study/degrees/postgraduate-certificate-in-voice-studies/overview
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Writing For Theatre
Ravenswood School for Girls’ Brontë.
NIDA (02) 9697 7600 info@nida.edu.au Master of Fine Arts (Writing for Performance) - 15 months (12 months on campus, 3 month personal research project) The guiding philosophy of the MFA (Writing for Performance) is that great writing comes from a passionate engagement with great ideas, and to that end, writers will be constantly exposed to some of the most challenging intellectual debates of the contemporary world. At the same time, they will have the opportunity to do work in fields as diverse as film and digital media, while writing their major work, excerpts of which will be presented at the end of the year, with the writers themselves directing actors in a rehearsed reading for a public audience. Graduates of the course may be employed as playwrights and as writers for other performance genres, including film, television, radio and digital media. www.nida.edu.au/writing Griffith University 1800 154 055 Bachelor of Arts in Contemporary and Applied Theatre - 3 years full-time In this practical and creative degree, you’ll explore traditional and non-traditional performance, directing, writing, technical theatre and stage management, applied theatre and drama facilitation. You’ll learn about performance theory and be encouraged to create your own work. You’ll learn through working with industry professionals on performance projects and immersing yourself in community cultural development projects. In your final year, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake an industry placement. You’ll also perform in venues such as Metro Arts, Judith Wright Centre of Performing Arts and the Brisbane Powerhouse, with exchange opportunities available at universities in the UK, Canada, Sweden and more. Prerequisites: English 4SA
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Victorian College of the Arts University of Melbourne 13 MELB Master of Writing for Performance - 1 year full-time The Master of Writing for Performance focuses on developing the skills and emerging aesthetic of the individual and collaborative writer for diverse forms of contemporary live performance. It is unique in Australian theatre culture, focusing on the diversity of voices and cultures present in contemporary writing in Australia and overseas. Through a combination of writing workshops, critical seminars and discussions you develop skills in writing for diverse contexts and live performance while gaining an understanding of the relationship between the playwright and the cultural contexts in which they write. The program focuses on the development of a full length play, as well as four other smaller performance writing projects including: writing from improvisation with acting and directing students; writing for digital mediums; adaptation of existing texts; and writing for live art projects. The projects are supported by an analysis of dramaturgical principles and play structures based in character, dramatic action, conflict, dialogue, action and causal logic, as well as more experimental, non-linear writing based on post-dramatic concepts. At the end of the year, each writer presents a rehearsed presentation of a full-length play to industry and public. The program welcomes applications from: writers, actors, directors, animateurs, theatre makers, designers and dramaturges, with moderate to extensive experience in performance writing. https://vca.unimelb.edu.au/study/degrees/master-of-writing-for-performance/overview NIDA’s The Tempest. Image courtesy of NIDA. Photo: Lisa Maree Williams.
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Course Index Name of Institution 16th Street 16th Street
Course Youth Program Part Time Program
Page 26 26
Category Acting Acting
State VIC VIC
3 Arts Make Up Effect College
Make Up Courses
66
Make Up
NSW
Academy of Music and Performing Arts Academy of Music and Performing Arts
Associate Degree of Music Bachelor of Music
71 71
Music Music
NSW NSW
Act 1
Acting Classes for Kids and Teens
27
Acting
VIC
Actors Centre Australia
Advanced Diploma Performing Arts
16
Acting
NSW
Actor's College of Theatre and TV Actor's College of Theatre and TV Actor's College of Theatre and TV Actor's College of Theatre and TV Actor's College of Theatre and TV Actor's College of Theatre and TV
Advanced Diploma of Stage and Screen Acting Certificate IV in Theatre and Screen Performance Advanced Diploma of Music Theatre Certificate III in Live Production Theatre and Events Certificate IV in Live Production Theatre and Events Advance diploma Stage Management
16 16 91 101 101 110
Acting Acting Music Theatre Sound and Light Sound and Light Stage management
NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW
Adelaide College of the Arts - TAFE SA Adelaide College of the Arts - TAFE SA
Acting Bachelor of Creative Arts Dance
23 54
Acting Dance
SA SA
ANU ANU
Bachelor of Music Bachelor of Music Honours
70 70
Music Music
NSW NSW
Australian Ballet School Australian Ballet School Australian Ballet School Australian Ballet School
Advance Diploma of Dance Level 7 Diploma of Dance Level 5 & 6 Graduate Diploma in Classic Ballet Level 4
51 51 51 51
Dance Dance Dance Dance
VIC VIC VIC VIC
Australian Institute of Music Australian Institute of Music Australian Institute of Music Australian Institute of Music Australian Institute of Music Australian Institute of Music Australian Institute of Music Australian Institute of Music Australian Institute of Music
Bachelor of Performance Bachelor of Music Bachelor of Entertainment Management Bachelor of Music Musical Theatre Diploma of Music Musical Theatre Master of Music Musical Theatre Bachelor of Music Audio Engineering Diploma of Music Audio Engineering Master of Music Audio Engineering
17 34 34, 70 83 83 83 101 101 101
Acting Arts Management Arts Management / Music Music Theatre Music Theatre Music Theatre Sound and Lighting Sound and Lighting Sound and Lighting
NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW
Australian National Academy of Music Australian National Academy of Music Australian National Academy of Music
Professional Performance Program Fellowship Master of Music
81 81 81
Music Music Music
NSW NSW NSW
Australian Performing Arts Network Australian Performing Arts Network Australian Performing Arts Network Australian Performing Arts Network Australian Performing Arts Network Australian Performing Arts Network
Certificate II in Dance Certificate II in Performing Arts Certificate IV in Performing Arts Music Theatre Certificate IV in Performing Arts Dance Diploma in Music Theatre Diploma in Dance
49 49 49 49 49 49
Dance Dance Dance Dance Dance Dance
NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW
Box Hill Institute of TAFE Box Hill Institute of TAFE Box Hill Institute of TAFE Box Hill Institute of TAFE Box Hill Institute of TAFE Box Hill Institute of TAFE Box Hill Institute of TAFE Box Hill Institute of TAFE
Diploma of Dance Advanced Diploma of Music Bachelor of Applies Music Composition Bachelor of Applies Music Performance Certificate IV in Music Diploma of Music Advanced Diploma of Sound Production Certificate III in Sound Production
50 81 81 81 81 81 104 104
Dance Music Music Music Music Music Sound and Light Sound and Light
VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC
Brent Street Brent Street Brent Street
Diploma of Dance Elite Performance Certificate IV in Dance Certificate IV in Dance Teaching and Management
45 48 48
Dance Dance Dance
NSW NSW NSW
Canberra Academy of Dramatic Arts Canberra Academy of Dramatic Arts Canberra Academy of Dramatic Arts
Advanced Diploma of Performance Certificate 111 in Performance Diploma of Musical Theatre
18 18 92
Acting Acting Musical Theatre
NSW NSW NSW
Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music
Bachelor of Music Diploma of Music
75 75
Music Music
QLD QLD
Centre Stage Performing Arts School
Musical Theatre Studies
94
Music Theatre
VIC
Charles Darwin University Charles Darwin University
Bachelor of Creative Arts Music Bachelor of Music
74 74
Music Music
NT NT
Charles Sturt University
Bachelor of Stage and Screen
60
Drama Education
NSW
79 79 79
Music Music Music
TAS TAS TAS
Conservatorium on Music - University of Tasmania Associate Degree in Music Rock Studies Conservatorium on Music - University of Tasmania Associate Degree in Music Studies Conservatorium on Music - University of Tasmania Bachelor of Music
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Conservatorium on Music - University of Tasmania Conservatorium on Music - University of Tasmania Conservatorium on Music - University of Tasmania Conservatorium on Music - University of Tasmania Conservatorium on Music - University of Tasmania Conservatorium on Music - University of Tasmania Conservatorium on Music - University of Tasmania Conservatorium on Music - University of Tasmania
Bachelor of Music with Honours Bachelor of Musical Art Diploma in Musical Performance Graduate Certificate in Music Studies Graduate Diploma in Music Studies Graduate Diploma in Professional Music Practice Master of Music Master of Music Studies
79 79 79 79 79 79 79 79
Music Music Music Music Music Music Music Music
TAS TAS TAS TAS TAS TAS TAS TAS
Curtin University
Bachelor of Arts
61
Drama Education
WA
Dance Factory Dance Factory Dance Factory Dance Factory Dance Factory Dance Factory Dance Factory Dance Factory
Certificate II in Dance Certificate III in Assistant Dance Teaching Certificate III in Dance Certificate IV in Dance Certificate IV in Dance Teaching and Management Diploma of Dance Elite Performance Diploma of Dance Teaching and Management Diploma of Musical Theatre
52 52 52 52 52 52 52 52, 94
Dance Dance Dance Dance Dance Dance Dance Dance / Musical Theatre
VIC VIC VIC VIC Vic VIC VIC VIC
Dance World Dance World Dance World Dance World Dance World Dance World
Advanced Diploma of Dance Certificate II in Dance Certificate III in Dance Certificate IV in Dance Diploma of Dance Classical Ballet Diploma of Dance Elite Performance
52 52 52 52 52 52
Dance Dance Dance Dance Dance Dance
VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC
Deakin University Deakin University Deakin University
Bachelor of Creative Arts Bachelor of Creative Arts Dance Performance Studies
24 50 60
Acting Dance Drama Education
VIC VIC VIC
Elder Conservatorium of Music - University of Adelaide Elder Conservatorium of Music - University of Adelaide Elder Conservatorium of Music - University of Adelaide Elder Conservatorium of Music - University of Adelaide Elder Conservatorium of Music - University of Adelaide Elder Conservatorium of Music - University of Adelaide
Bachelor of Music Bachelor of Music with Honours Certificate III in Music Certificate IV in Music Diploma in Instrumental Music Diploma in Music
79 79 79 79 79 79
Music Music Music Music Music Music
SA SA SA SA SA SA
Fame Theatre
Musical Theatre Studies
92
Musical Theatre
QLD
Federation University Federation University Federation University
Bachelor of Arts Acting Bachelor of Arts Music Theatre Diploma of Live Production and Technical Services
26 93 104
Acting Music Theatre Sound and Light
VIC VIC VIC
Flinders Drama Centre - Flinders University Flinders Drama Centre - Flinders University Flinders Drama Centre - Flinders University
Bachelor of Creative Arts Drama Bachelor of Creative Arts Acting Bachelor of Creative Arts Drama Honours
23, 55, 62 Acting / Directing / Education SA 23 Acting SA 23 Acting SA
Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University Griffith University
Bachelor of Arts in Applied Theatre Bachelor of Education (Drama) Master of Applied Theatre and Drama Education Master of applied theatre and drama education with Honours Bachelor of Arts in Contemporary and Applied Theatre Bachelor of Music Bachelor of Music with Honours Bachelor of Popular Music Bachelor of Popular Music with Honours Certificate in Music Studies Doctor of Musical Arts Graduate Certificate in Music Studies Graduate Diploma Music Studies Master in Music Studies Masters in Music Bachelor of Musical Theatre Bachelor of Music Technology Bachelor of Music Technology with Honours Certificate in Music Technology Certificate in Popular Music Technology Graduate Diploma of Music Opera
21 21 21 21 61, 113 76 76 76 76 76 76 76 76 76 76 92 102 102 102 102 114
Acting Acting Acting Acting Drama Education / Writing Music Music Music Music Music Music Music Music Music Music Music Theatre Sound and Light Sound and Light Sound and Light Sound and Light Voice
QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD
Harvest Rain
Musical Theatre Internship
92
Musical Theatre
QLD
James Cook University
Bachelor of New Media Arts Music and Sound
75
Music
QLD
Jazz Musical Institute Jazz Musical Institute
Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance Diploma of Music in Jazz Performance
78 78
Music Music
QLD QLD
JMC Academy JMC Academy JMC Academy
Diploma of Audio Engineering and Sound Production 101 Bachelor of Creative Technology Audio Engineering and Sound Production 101 Associate Degree of Audio Engineering and Sound Production 101
Sound and Light Sound and Light Sound and Light
NSW NSW NSW
La Trobe University
Bachelor of Creative Arts
25
Acting
VIC
Macquarie University
Bachelor of Arts Major in Dance
60
Drama Education
NSW
Massey University
Expressive Arts
62
Drama Education
NZ
- Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium - Queensland Conservatorium
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Michelle Slater
Diploma of Musical Theatre
94
Musical Theatre
VIC
Monash University Monash University Monash University Monash University Murdoch University Monash University Monash University
Certificate in Theatre Bachelor of Performing Arts Bachelor of Music and Performing Arts Diploma of Arts Theatre and Drama Major Bachelor of Music Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Music
80 80 80 80 62 80 80
Acting Acting Acting Acting Drama Education Music Music
VIC VIC VIC VIC WA VIC VIC
Music SA
Certificate III in Music Business
35
Arts Management
SA
NASDA New Zealand
Bachelor of Performing Arts Music Theatre
95
Music Theatre
NZ
National College of Dance National College of Dance
Certificate IV in Dance Diploma of Dance Elite Performance
48 48
Dance Dance
NSW NSW
NICA NICA NICA
Bachelor of Circus Arts Certificate III in Circus Arts Certificate IV in Circus Arts
37 37 37
Circus Circus Circus
VIC VIC VIC
NIDA NIDA NIDA NIDA NIDA NIDA NIDA NIDA NIDA NIDA NIDA
Bachelor of Fine Arts Acting Bachelor of Fine Arts Costume Bachelor of Fine Arts Design and Performance Bachelor of Fine Arts Properties and Objects Bachelor of Fine Arts Staging Master of Fine Art Directing Graduate Diploma of Dramatic Art Directing Diploma of Music Theatre Bachelor of Fine Arts Production Bachelor fo Fine Arts Technical Theatre and Stage Management Master of Fine Arts Writing for Performance
18 42 42 42 42 55 55 91 101 110 113
Acting Costume/Props Costume/Props Costume/Props Costume/Props Directing Directing Music Theatre Sound and Light Stage Management Writing
NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW
Queensland University of Technology Queensland University of Technology Queensland University of Technology Queensland University of Technology Queensland University of Technology Queensland University of Technology Queensland University of Technology Queensland University of Technology Queensland University of Technology
Bachelor of Fine Arts Acting Bachelor of Business and Creative Industries Bachelor of Creative Industries Bachelor of Fine Arts Dance Bachelor of Fine Arts Dance Performance Bachelor of Fine Arts Drama Bachelor of Music Graduate Certificates and Masters Bachelor of Fine Arts Technical Production
22 34 34 50 50 22 76 76 103
Acting Arts Management Arts Management Dance Dance Drama Music Music Sound and Lighting
QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD
RMIT
Bachelor of Arts Music
81
Music
VIC
Screenwise
Diploma of Screen Acting
19
Acting
NSW
SEDA SEDA
Arts Development Program Arts Development Program
111 60
Arts Management Drama Education
VIC VIC
Southern Cross University
Bachelor of Contemporary Music
71
Music
NSW
Spectrum Dance Spectrum Dance Spectrum Dance
Certificate IV in Dance Diploma of Dance Elite Performance Diploma in Music Theatre
53 53 93
Dance Dance Music Theatre
VIC VIC VIC
Sydney College of Make Up Art Sydney College of Make Up Art Sydney College of Make Up Art
Certificate II in Make Up Certificate IV in Make Up Diploma of Make Up
66 66 66
Make Up Make Up Make Up
NSW NSW NSW
Sydney Conservatorium of Music - University of Sydney Sydney Conservatorium of Music - University of Sydney Sydney Conservatorium of Music - University of Sydney Sydney Conservatorium of Music - University of Sydney Sydney Conservatorium of Music - University of Sydney Sydney Conservatorium of Music - University of Sydney Sydney Conservatorium of Music - University of Sydney Sydney Conservatorium of Music - University of Sydney Sydney Conservatorium of Music - University of Sydney
Advanced Diploma of Opera Bachelor in Music Composition Bachelor in Music Education Bachelor in Music Performance Bachelor in Music Studies Bachelor in Music Studies Honor Combined with Bachelor of Arts Diploma of Music Performance Graduate Diploma Opera
71 71 71 71 71 71 71 71 114
Music Music Music Music Music Music Music Music Voice
NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW
Sydney Theatre School
Advance Diploma Acting
18
Acting
NSW
Sydney University
Performance Studies
59
Drama Education
NSW
TAFE NSW Illawarra
Diploma in Music
71
Music
NSW
TAFE Queensland Gold Coast TAFE Queensland Gold Coast TAFE Queensland Gold Coast TAFE Queensland Gold Coast TAFE Queensland Gold Coast TAFE Queensland Gold Coast
Diploma of Music Business Diploma of Music Diploma of Music Business Certificate III in Live Productions Theatre and Events Diploma of Sound Production Diploma of Screen Media
34 75 75 102 102 102
Arts Management Music Music Sound and Light Sound and Light Sound and Light
QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD
TAFE Western Sydney TAFE Western Sydney
Diploma in Musical Theatre Live Production Certificates and Diplomas
91 101
Musical Theatre Sound and Lighting
NSW NSW
28
Acting
VIC
Talent Company of Australia - Stage School Australia Screen and Acting Short Courses
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Tasmanian Polytechnic
Advanced Diploma Stage Management
111
Stage Management
TAS
The Actors Pulse The Actors Pulse The Actors Pulse
Acting Course Meisner Technique Screen Acting Course
17 17 17
Acting Acting Acting
NSW NSW NSW
The Actor's Workshop The Actor's Workshop The Actor's Workshop
Advanced Diploma Film, Television and Theatre Certificate IV in Film and Television Diploma of Film, TV and Acting
21 21 21
Acting Acting Acting
QLD QLD QLD
The National Theatre Drama School The National Theatre Drama School
Advances Diploma of Acting Preparatory Course Stage and Screen
26 27
Acting Acting
VIC VIC
Toi Whakaari NZ - New Zealand Drama School Toi Whakaari NZ - New Zealand Drama School Toi Whakaari NZ - New Zealand Drama School Toi Whakaari NZ - New Zealand Drama School Toi Whakaari NZ - New Zealand Drama School Toi Whakaari NZ - New Zealand Drama School
Bachelor of Performing Arts Acting Bachelor of Performing Arts Management Bachelor of Design Diploma in Costume Construction Diploma in Entertainment Technology Bachelor of Performing Arts Management
29 36 44 44 105 112
Acting Arts Management Costumes Costumes Sound and Lighting Stage Management
NZ NZ NZ NZ NZ NZ
University of Auckland
Theatre Studies
63
Drama Education
NZ
University of New England University of New England University of New England University of New England University of New England University of New England University of New England
Bachelor of Arts Major in theatre studies Bachelor of Theatre Studies Doctor of Philosophy Master of Applied Theatre Studies Master of Arts with Honours Bachelor of Arts Theatre Bachelor of Theatre and Performance
19 19 19 19 19 60 60
Acting Acting Acting Acting Acting Drama Education Drama Education
NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW
University of Newcastle University of Newcastle University of Newcastle University of Newcastle
Bachelor of Arts Creative and Perf Arts Doctor of Philosophy Drama and Performance Bachelor of Music
19 19 19 71
Acting Acting Acting Music
NSW NSW NSW NSW
University of Notre Dame
Theatre Studies
62
Drama Education
NSW
University of NSW University of NSW
Performance Studies Bachelor of Music
57 73
Drama Education Music
NSW NSW
University of Queensland University of Queensland University of Queensland University of Queensland
Drama Single Major Bachelor of Arts Honours Music Single Major Diploma of Music Performance
22 61 78 78
Acting Drama Education Music Music
QLD QLD QLD QLD
University of South Australia University of South Australia
Bachelor of Media Arts Drama Major Graduate Diploma and Masters in Cultural Management
23 35
Acting Arts Management
SA SA
University of Southern Queensland University of Southern Queensland University of Southern Queensland
Bachelor of Creative Arts Theatre Bachelor of Creative Arts Honours Bachelor of Fine Arts Technical Production
22 22 110
Acting Acting Stage Management
QLD QLD QLD
University of Tasmania
Bachelor of Contemporary Arts
24
Acting
TAS
University of Technology Sydney
Certificate in Executive Management
34
Arts Management
NSW
University of Waikato
Theatre Studies
63
Drama Education
NZ
University of Western Australia
Bachelor of Arts Music
82
Music
WA
University of Western Sydney
Bachelor of Music
73
Music
NSW
University of Wollongong University of Wollongong University of Wollongong University of Wollongong
Bachelor of Creative Arts Bachelor of Performance Doctor of Creative Arts Bachelor or Creative Arts Music
20 20 20 73
Acting Acting Acting Music
NSW NSW NSW NSW
Urban Dance Centre Urban Dance Centre
Certificate IV in Performing Arts Diploma of Musical Theatre
49 91
Dance Musical Theatre
NSW NSW
VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University
BA Communications Media/Theatre Bachelor of Fine Arts Theatre Practise Master of Theatre Practise Winter and Summer schools Bachelor of Fine Arts Production Masters of Fine Arts Production Bachelor of Fine Arts Dance Diploma in Performance Creation Postgraduate Diploma in Performance Creation Choreography Master of Choreography Master of Directing for Performance Diploma of Specialist Make Up Services Bachelor of Fine Arts Contemporary Music Bachelor of Music Contemporary Music Foundation Program Music Theatre Foundation Program
27 27 27 27 43 43 51 51 51 51 58 66 80 80 80 92
Acting Acting Acting Acting Costume/Props Costume/Props Dance Dance Dance Dance Directing Make Up Music Music Music Music Theare
VIC Vic VIC VIC Vic VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC
120 Stage Whispers Directory of Performing Arts Courses 2016
VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) - Melbourne University
Bachelor of Fine Arts Musical Theatre Diploma in Performance Sound and Lighting Bachelor of Fine Arts Production Post Graduate Certificate in Vocal Studies
92 104 104 114
Music Theatre Sound and Light Stage Management Voice
VIC VIC VIC VIC
Victorian University Victorian University Victorian University Victorian University Victorian University
Bachelor of Business Music Certificate II in Music Certificate IV in Music Advanced Diploma of Music Advanced Diploma of Sound Production
35 81 81 81 104
Arts Management Music Music Music Sound and Lighting
VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC
WA Circus School
Acrobatics, Aerials and Manipulation
38
Circus
WA
WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA WAAPA
Acting Bachelor of Arts Acting Certificate IV in Aboriginal Theatre Bachelor of Arts Management Advance Diploma Live Production Design Props and Scenery Advanced Diploma of Dance Elite Performance Bachelor of Arts Dance Bachelor of Arts Dance Honours Certificate II in Dance Diploma of Dance Elite Performance Bachelor in Music Diploma in Music Bachelor of Arts Music Theatre Certificate Iv in Musical Theatre Advance Diploma Live Production Lighting Advance Diploma Live Production Sound Advance Diploma of Stage Management
28 29 28 35 43 43 53 53 53 53 53 82 82 94 94 105 105 112
Acting Acting Acting Arts Management Costume/Props Costume/Props Dance Dance Dance Dance Dance Music Music Music theatre Music Theatre Sound and Light Sound and Light Stage Management
WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA
Wesley Institute Wesley Institute Wesley Institute Wesley Institute Wesley Institute Wesley Institute Wesley Institute Wesley Institute Wesley Institute
Bachelor of Dramatic Art Diploma of Dramatic Arts Oz to LA Associate Degree of Dance Bachelor of Dance Diploma of Dance Bachelor of Music Master of Music Associate Degree of Music
20 20 20 45 45 45 70 70 70
Acting Acting Acting Dance Dance Dance Music Music Music
NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW
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