Bath Spa University

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Performing Arts (Foundation Degree)

The Foundation Degree in Performing Arts is a practical course: it will develop your vocal, physical, emotional and technical skills, allowing you to build these essentials in workshops and sessions and then channel this learning into rehearsal and production practice. The course is offered in conjunction with Weston College, where you will be based.

For more information about this course please visit the School of Music and Performing Arts website.

Course Structure and Content

The approach of the Foundation Degree in Performing Arts course is one of 'theatre-as-playing' in an ensemble or company context. Throughout the duration of the course, you will engage in all aspects of production, from rehearsal techniques to performance, research, stage and production management. As a graduating student you will have the practical know-how and the theoretical contextual knowledge necessary to be able to begin to 're-invent form' in the theatre and/or to begin to work in theatre in one of its many current forms, from the Broadway musical to avant-garde fringe.

In Year 1, modules in Acting will introduce you to the 'art of playing' as an overarching framework for gaining and practicing performance skills and for understanding performance. You will compose and perform short pieces, and you will gain experience of practical theatre-craft.

In Year 2 you will concentrate on production and performance. You will develop your understanding of performance both through theoretical research and through practical engagement, and you will produce more challenging and innovative work.

A key feature of performance work on the FdA in Performing Arts is the inclusion of performance in mediated contexts. Students will work with visiting specialists and tutors in their application of performance skills for television, film and other recorded media.

Modules

Year 1

• Acting Skills 1 and 2;
• Performance Workshops 1 and 2;
• Contextual Studies 1 and 2.

Year 2

• Production 1 and 2;
• Performance Workshops 3 and 4;
• Contextual Studies 3 and 4.

At the end of Year 2, you can top-up your qualification to an honours degree by applying to the Performance for Live and Recorded Media route on the BA (Hons) Performing Arts course at Bath Spa University. Entry is not automatic but at the discretion of the Course Director and subject to an interview and/ or audition. Students may also progress to other BA (Hons) Performing Arts routes at Bath Spa University, subject to audition.

Teaching Methods and Resources

The Foundation Degree in Performing Arts course is run at Weston College under the supervision of Bath Spa University. Led by qualified staff, the Performing Arts are taught through workshops, lectures, seminars and rehearsals, and through in-class, studio, main-stage and other forms of performance.

Students' own rehearsals, theatre visits and attendance at a variety of extracurricular classes are considered to be an important part of the course, as are work placements where possible.

Assessment Methods

Assessment is through coursework and includes a variety of methods such as rehearsal, performance, Personal Development Portfolios and essays. There are no written examinations.

Entry Requirements

180 UCAS Tariff points (eg BC; CD +AS c) with minimum 60 points from Drama, Dance or Theatre Studies.

Entry is by audition only.