Musical Theatre Level 3 Extended Diploma

The course combines theory and practice to allow you to develop your performance skills in two main musical shows. You will specifically looks at the skills needed to progress and develop as a performer; it is a very practical course combining theory and practice aimed at developing knowledge and skills across a broad area of performance including voice and movement. Students need to be open-minded and willing to explore creatively to broaden their horizons. The course challenges students to develop their core performance skills and disciplines (i.e. focus, concentration, character portrayal, pacing, physical and vocal control) whilst exploring the application of these skills in a range of creative contexts. The course emphasises the importance of teamwork and an ability to fulfil an effective role in a group, on and off stage. Assessment is continuous, usually through integrated assignments covering a range of skills and different units. The majority of work is practical with written back up. A number of research projects are set often resulting in verbal presentations or essays. Public performances take place throughout the course in the College’s Taylor Theatre and Forest Theatre and at outside venues such the Bacon Theatre and non-theatre venues such as local schools. Your studies will include: • Acting • Dancing (ballet and jazz) • Singing • Public performances .

The Musical Theatre pathway is a combination of dance, acting and singing, which is taught in an integrated way with acting students attending most core sessions. The musical theatre students must undertake all three areas of acting units, singing and dance, with equal ability and is therefore not for the faint hearted. You will also take part in classical acting and contemporary theatre sessions. Students need to be open-minded and willing to explore creatively to broaden their horizons. The course challenges students to develop their core performance skills and disciplines (i.e. focus, concentration, character portrayal, pacing, physical and vocal control) whilst exploring the application of these skills in a range of creative contexts. The course emphasises the importance of teamwork and an ability to fulfil an effective role in a group, on and off stage. Assessment is continuous, usually through integrated assignments covering a range of skills and different units. The majority of work is practical with written back up. A number of research projects are set often resulting in verbal presentations or essays. Public performances take place throughout the course in the college theatre and at outside venues such as the Gloucester Cathedral and non-theatre venues such as local schools. The full Extended Diploma is made up of 18 units, which are studied across the two years of the course. In the first year of the programme you will achieve a new 9 unit qualification - if successful you can then progress on to the second year. Please note: the course cannot be completed on a part-time basis. Why take this course at Gloucestershire College? Excellent facilities (including access to two theatres, dance studio, rehearsal spaces, recording studio and practise rooms) Highly qualified staff with industry experience, many still working within the industry, which enhances the learning experience. The opportunity to perform in high quality productions at a variety of venues around Gloucestershire. Gloucestershire College is one of only 20 colleges that is a founder member of the National Skills Academy Cultural and Creative. This means that our learners have access to opportunities, competitions and events that provide insight and information about working within the performing arts industry.

You need to have either five GCSEs, grades A* to C, ideally including English and drama, or to have successfully completed a relevant Level 2 qualification with merit and functional skills. Selection requires a successful interview, audition and an excellent reference.

You can move on to a higher education course in performing arts at a university or drama school of your choice.

Please contact the College on 0845 155 2020 for further details