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Theatre Production (Foundation Degree)
We believe that this course offers a totally unique opportunity within UK Higher Education. In association with "Bath Spa Live" the programme gives you the chance to study in a "proto professional" environment, within a course which is underpinned by strong and demonstratable links with industry.
For more information about this course please visit the School of Music and Performing Arts website.
The course is run across a variety of venues, including venues at Theatre Royal, Bath (Main House, Ustinov Studio, and The Egg). The Theatre Royal is one of the most important and prestigious theatres in the UK outside London.
Course Structure and Content
For the duration of the 2 year FdA course, students will be introduced to virtually all of the disciplines involved in the mounting of professional performances, including lighting and sound, stage management, scenic construction and design, props and wardrobe, rigging, flying and special effects, computer-aided design and costume.
Year 1
During the first year of the course you will study the following modules:
- Stage Management and Production Process
- Lighting, Sound and AV1
- Stagecraft 1
- An Introduction to Scenic and Costume Design
You will be taught in a lecture and practical workshop basis, with the opportunity to work on productions, both internal and external, during the year.
Year 2
Year 2 study is entirely focussed on production work, both within and out with University. Modules studied are:
- Stage Management (Working on Shows)
- Stagecraft 2 (Working on Shows)
- Lighting, Sound and AV 2 (Running Productions)
- Specialisation and Professionalisation
- Industry Work Placement
You will undertake a variety of production-based roles including Stage Manager, Deputy Stage Manager, Lighting Designer, Sound Designer, Chief Electrician, Sound Technician, Chief Prop Maker, Technical Stage Manager and Head of Construction.
On successful completion of the Foundation Degree, students can apply for a 'top-up year' qualification, resulting in a full BA (Hons) Theatre Production qualification. Entry to Year 3 is by interview, and is normally restricted to applicants who have completed the Foundation Degree in full. You will take on an increasing level of responsibility, allowing you to provide leadership on a variety of projects, as well as enabling you to initiate your own.
This stand-alone programme focuses on the following modules:
- Design and Construction
- Creativity and Technology
- Applied Management in Theatre Production
- Professional Portfolio
- Extended Industry Work Placement
Teaching Methods and Resources
Particular emphasis is placed on project and production work, though students also undertake practical workshops, seminars and directed study.
All lecturers are leading specialist Theatre Production practitioners, ensuring that what you are learning is to current industry standard.
The course is run across a variety of venues, including Theatre Royal, Bath one of the most important theatres in the UK outside London. Students will support production work across its three venues - Main House, the Ustinov Studio and the egg - as well as the University Theatre and Michael Tippett Centre concert hall at Newton Park and other venues within the City.
Assessment Methods
Assessment is largely by coursework including practical work, presentations, evaluations, group projects, individual reports and written assignments.
Entry Requirements
160-200 UCAS Tariff points (eg BC; CD+AS c) plus a demonstrable interest in some aspect of theatre production.
Alternative qualifications welcome.