Acting Foundation Course

The course enables students interested in theatre, but with limited practical experience, to explore and develop their potential as performers. Through a systematic and sustained series of workshops, lectures, and practical explorations, students discover their own potential as creators. 

By studying contemporary and classical drama, students develop their skills in acting, voice, movement, and improvisation. In addition to intensive practical scene study, students learn about the social and cultural contexts of the theatre experience.

The course uses the vibrant and diverse London theatre scene as a focus for experiential learning about the theatre industry and its creative innovations.  In addition, master classes, guest practitioners, theatre visits, and fieldwork give students insights into theatre as both artistic practice and as a multi-faceted creative industry.

The Course Covers

The programme aims to enable students to gain a practical and theoretical orientation to different approaches to acting and theatre-making:

• Voice and Singing for the Actor
• Movement for the Actor
• Contemporary Realism 
• Playing Shakespeare
• Improvisation
• Theatre, Culture and Society
• Audition Preparation

Master classes by theatre professionals, theatre visits, and field trips augment the taught curriculum, and provide creative insight into one of the world’s most fascinating theatre centres.

Learning Methods

Tutors are experienced professionals from the London theatre community and the course draws upon the wide range of theatrical expertise of professional theatre-makers such as actors, directors, writers and designers. 

Delivery is by lecture, seminar, workshop and tutorial, plus students will have the opportunity to work both individually and in groups; progress reviews afford the opportunities for students to discuss their development. 

Students will be given guidance and training in preparing for auditions for drama school or university.  There are opportunities for performances, culminating in an end of year showcase which is open to the public. 

Who Should Take This Course?

The course is designed for a culturally diverse, international cohort, which includes post-secondary students as well as learners who wish to explore acting as they are making decisions about their future educational objectives and careers.  It may appeal to students on a ‘gap year’ to determine whether they want to go on to degree study or vocational theatre training.  We also welcome mature students and those returning to study.

Employment Opportunities: Where Next?

The Acting Foundation Course engages students in the ethos and disciplines of actor training; through these creative challenges, students gain strong transferable skills in team-working, communication, time-management, presentation and interpersonal relations.

Acting draws upon both individual imagination and commitment, and lively engagement with one’s co-creators through creative problem-solving, adaptability and responsiveness to change.  These are some of the most sought-after skills in today’s workplace. 

These wide-ranging skills will enable students to become confident and articulate communicators and markedly increase opportunities for success, whether one chooses to go on to drama school, university or employment.

For Students with Disabilities

Due to the practical nature of the course it is possible that a student with a physical disability may find it particularly challenging. If so, the students is advised to contact the Disability Officer to discuss any specific needs prior to application. The Disability Officer will liaise with the Programme Director as necessary. As the course includes theatre trips, please advise the Disability Officer as soon as possible about any specific access needs.