Qualification Aims and Objectives

This course explores how performing arts disciplines, such as drama and musical theatre, are used to communicate meaning, engage audiences, and develop creative professionals. You’ll study performance techniques, workshop creative processes, take part in productions or practitioner-inspired projects, and reflect on performance-making in real-world cultural settings.

Objectives

• Develop knowledge and understanding of performing arts practices, traditions and professional environments.
• Apply creative, technical and production skills in rehearsal, performance and reflective work.
• Build practical, analytical and evaluative skills through performance projects, portfolio work and collaboration.
• Consider the ethical, cultural, social and global implications of performance and arts practice.
• Prepare for further study and careers in acting, dance, musical theatre, production, directing, arts management and the creative industries.

Course Outline

The qualification combines core and optional units to balance theory and practical performance work. Core units develop essential performance skills and understanding of production contexts, while optional units allow specialisation in areas of interest. Learning is delivered through workshops, rehearsals, live productions, and project diaries.

Core Units

• Exploring the Performing Arts
• Developing Skills and Techniques for Performance
• Performing to a Commission
• Performance in Context

Optional/Specialist Units (examples)

• Acting Styles and Techniques
• Musical Theatre Performance
• Voice for Performance

Assessment

• External Assessment: Set tasks or live productions evaluated externally, testing performance skills, production understanding and portfolio outcomes.
• Internal Assessment: Coursework, practical performance tasks, production assignments and reflective journals marked by teachers and verified externally.

Future courses and possible careers

Actor • Musical Theatre Performer • Director • Choreographer • Production Manager • Stage/Set Designer • Arts and Cultural Manager • Theatre Technician • Voice/Performance Coach • Creative Producer • Arts Education Practitioner • Event and Tour Management