Performing Arts (Musical Theatre) (Top-up)

Validated by The Open University, the BA (Hons) Top-up in Performing Arts: Musical Theatre is an innovative new programme. Located in brand new, purpose built facilities of a professional standard, the course prepares students for employment, further study and self-fulfilment within a wide field. An emphasis on 'state of the art' contemporary practice will be a feature of the course, with regard to industry developments and curriculum content; ensuring that students are acutely aware of current professional demands and likely developments within their industry. Professionals currently working in the industry will play a significant part of the curriculum delivery in order to ensure that student contacts and professional links are developed.  The course combines contextual elements with en extensive concentration on practical skills, and will appeal to those hoping to work in performance. Teaching and learning will take place via lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, presentations and performances. The course (delivered over one year) comprises of two semesters. The first semester (September - January) will focus on Professional Practice, and student will study alongside other students on the BA (Hons) Top-Up course in Performing Arts: Drama in order to develop transferable skills. Students will also complete a minor project that will help in the further development of performance skills, team work and production. Towards the end of the first semester, students will begin work on their specialist route, pre-planning for their final major project. In Semester 2, students will complete their final major project, which accounts for 60 credits of the 120 credit course. This major project will be carefully monitored and the project will replicate industry experience, including performing a production in front of a live audience, as well as being responsible for all aspects of the production. All of the modules have been designed (after discussions with industry specialists) to offer specialist study, but also allow a broader context for the subjects, ensuring students are able to cope with an era of convergence in media, music and performing arts in general.  The teaching staff have wide ranging expertise both as higher-education academics, and in individual specialisms. Some colleagues are working towards Fellowships of the Higher Education Academy. In addition, specialist practitioners (who are experts in their areas such as dance and music techniques) are invloved in the delivery of the course. Guest lecturers will also offer a variety of specialist and focused sessions.  There are 450 scheduled delivery hours for the course, plus performances of rehearsed work in November and March. This includes rehearsal time, workshops, lectures, seminars and tutorials. It is expected that students will spend around 450 hours in rehearsals, research and self-directed study time.  Formative assessment is continuous throughout the projects, with summative feedback given after each assignment. Students successfully completing their degree will have opportunities for employment/self-employment in the performing arts industry in careers such as: Professional performance artists and performers Teachers Community acts/artists/practitioners Therapeutic arts Health and social care Arts administration Youth work

UCAS Tariff - 96 points
Applicants are required to have a Level 5 qualification in an appropriate subject (such as a foundation degree or equivalent in Performing Arts, Drama, Musical Theatre or an associated subject). Students should also have GCSE English at grade C or above or an equivalent (i.e. Level 2 Functional Skills). Applicants should also have a genuine interest and passion for the subject and be able to demonstrate this articulately, along with motivation, confidence and creativity. Mature applicants with extensive work experience and/or a range of professional qualifications in their work sector will be considered on an individual basis. References, alternative experience and skills will all be taken into account.