Foundation Degree in Performing Arts (Performance Practice)

This course is validated by De Montfort University.

The course is centred on producing creative and high-quality performance work in a number of contexts that relate to the performing arts industry. A range of performance styles and significant practitioners in contemporary and modern performance will be explored in both theory and practice, providing students with a wealth of ideas and approaches to draw upon in the creation and staging of their work.

After initial grounding in the core techniques of acting, dance and singing in the first year of study, there is greater flexibility with optional modules in the second year. These modules include classical theatre acting, advanced dance techniques and digital/video work. There is also an optional creative project module that allows students to focus on and further develop an area of interest, for example, directing, acting, choreography, arts administration or teaching.

Our teaching staff come from fantastic and varied professional careers, bringing a breadth of knowledge and experience to SMB College Group and our students. Some have worked as specialists in their area, previously working in the entertainment industry as actors and dancers.

The course provides progression into performing (acting or dance), teaching, Postgraduate study, or other areas of work in the performing arts sector (including community, applied theatre or dance work) or onto a BA (Hons) Top-up Degree in a similar field.

In addition to practical work, students will learn via presentations and written coursework (e.g. essays). *Year 1 Modules: Performance Practitioners, Performance Project, to Contemporary Performance Acting Techniques, Dance Techniques, Voice Techniques. *Year 2 Modules: Students must take all mandatory modules: Devising Performance, Contemporary Performance in Practice, Performance for Screen, Performing Arts in Education. Students must choose another 2 modules from: Classical theatre, Advanced Dance Techniques, Creative Project

The primary mode of assessment on this course is practical performance work, and the main productions in each year take place in our 340-seat professional theatre. Practical assessments also take the form of studio-based performance and performance for the camera. In addition to practical work, students are assessed via presentations and written coursework (e.g. essays).