GRADUATE COURSE - CLASSICAL ACTING

Graduates of Sydney Theatre School and (other drama schools) may apply to audition for our Advanced Diploma in Classical Acting. The programme offers a unique opportunity to further your training; develop the vocal and analytical skills required for acting in classical performances and to enhance your CV with productions directed by high-profile professional directors.

 

 

THE PROGRAMME

Classical Acting focuses on the demands and skills required to successfully perform in Shakesprearean and other classical theatre productions. Actors who work regularly with classical texts are able to stretch their 'acting muscles' and thereby enhance employment prospects. The programme will bring your performance skills alive and enable you to draw on a wide range of processes, techniques and disciplines (with a strong focus on vocal technique) that will lead to increased confidence and power on stage.

STRUCTURE

You will embark on three performance projects during the year - exploring, rehearsing and performing Shakespearean and other classical texts under the watchful eye of highly three highly experienced professional directors. The productions are supported by intensive voice and movement exercises that are integrated into the rehearsal period. This production-based process is complemented by individual research and theoretical discussion when required. You will investigate the social, cultural and historical context of each play as well as its structure; its language and imagery; and its qualities of heightened and rhetorical discourse. Although the primary focus is on performing Shakespeare, you will also rehearse and perform at least one other classical production eg; Chekhov; Ibsen; Moliere; Brecht; Greek; Restoration Comedy etc.

COURSE CONTENT

 

The course is divided into three twelve-week terms. Students rehearse and perform one production each term. The content is as follows:

 

CORE UNITS

 

Term 1: Shakespeare Scenes

Term 2: Shakespeare Production

Term 3: Classical Production (Non-Shakespeaean) 

INTEGRATED UNITS

Classical Acting

Voice

Stage Combat

Text-Analysis

Professional Practice

 

The exercises and activities designed to develop skills in the above areas are integrated into the rehearsal process. This ensures all learning opportunities are made relevant and put into immediate context.

 

 

COMMITMENT

 

We are looking for people who are enthusiastic, flexible and self-disciplined. The intensive nature of the course requires a mature, positive attitude and willingness to learn. The performing arts industry is very demanding and highly competitive. With this in mind, Sydney Theatre School requires that each student takes full responsibility for their own progress and development. It requires a full commitment in all aspects of the course including attendance, punctuality, participation, preparation and performance.

 

 

 

ADMISSION

Admission to the programme is open to professional actors who have either completed the Diploma of Theatre Performance at Sydney Theatre School or have graduated from another recognised drama school. Entry is by audition and interview.

DATES / TIMES

 

 

DATES:           Term 1: 4th February - 27th April 2008

                   Term 2: 12th May - 10th August 2008

                   Term 3: 25th August - 16th November 2008

 

 

TIMES:         Monday and Wednesday from 6.30pm - 9.30pm plus Saturday from 10am - 5pm 

 

 

AUDITION REQUIREMENTS

 

Applicants must be aged 18 years or over by the commencement of the course. You will need to prepare for presentation:

One (1) audition monologue of your own choice from a Shakespeare play.

The performance should last no longer than 3 minutes. After the audition, there will be a short interview during which you will have the opportunity to ask questions and demonstrate your commitment to a career in the performing arts industry. Successful candidates will be notified by mail, and will be required to submit a deposit to secure their place.

 

FEES

 

APPLICATION FEE: $25 (inc GST)

 

AUDITION GUARANTEE: The application fee will be refunded if you are NOT offered a place following your audition. If you ARE offered a place and you decline then no refund will apply.

 

TUITION FEE: $1,000 (plus GST) deposit followed by eleven (11) monthly payments of $450 (plus GST)

NOTE: A 10% discount will apply if entire annual fee is paid in full one week prior to commencement.

APPLICATIONS

Applications for 2008 are now open.

HOW TO APPLY

  1. Request an application form (see left hand menu "Applications").
  2. Upon receipt of form attach a passport photo to the top right hand corner.
  3. Enclose the $25 application fee
  4. Sign and post to:

Sydney Theatre School    

PO Box 267

GLEBE NSW 2037

 

PLEASE NOTE: All applicants will be sent details of the time, location and how to best prepare for the audition.