Musical Theatre with Foundation Year BA (Hons)

On this module, you will explore a range of acting practitioners and apply their theories to preparation and performance. You will develop key skills such as: self-confidence, focus, awareness of the body, staying present, imagination, listening, relaxation and collaboration. 

The module considers the stagecraft of how actors work. You will explore devising, improvisation and script work. You will engage in peer-to-peer feedback, self-analysis and responding to direction. Though practical application and self-reflection, you will discover and create your personal ‘Actors Toolbox’ of techniques you can use throughout the course and into your career.

Through integrating song, dance and acting, you will develop your knowledge and understanding of how to create and communicate characters and story. This module places the actor at the centre of Musical Theatre performance.

You will explore the evolution of Musical Theatre, discover key moments, investigate important figures and provide historical context. This module will look at global perspectives and influences on Musical Theatre as well as current international developments and trends. You will also explore critical and theoretical perspectives on the development of Musical Theatre.

Working with a creative team you will work with your peers as a professional theatre company to rehearse and perform a Revue Musical. You will understand and participate in the rehearsal process by replicating ‘real life’ industry practices within the rehearsal room. The Revue Musical will contain a selection of Musical Theatre material and be presented to an invited audience. 

In this module, you will explore genres within musical theatre and the styles attributed to different writers, composers and choreographers. You will engage with a diverse range of material, to develop a practical understanding of the different techniques or approaches required. You will also explore critical and theoretical perspectives on the development of different Musical Theatre styles and genres.

You will explore spoken voice and movement skills and theories with a focus on heightened texts such as Shakespeare, poetry, lyrics etc. You will explore spoken voice through practical sessions which integrate anatomical theory with creative application. Through movement, you will focus on the actor’s awareness and understanding of the body as a tool for the creation of character. You will consider both conscious and unconscious physical choices, creating a greater understanding of the ‘self’ as the centre for all creative decisions.

This module encourages you to embrace versatility and broaden your skill set. A range of performance skills will be explored and may be adapted to the skills and needs of the cohort. For example, you could engage with acting-for-camera, puppetry, stage combat, composition, swing skills etc. or a deeper investigation of dance, singing and acting skills beyond those traditionally found in Musical Theatre performance.

Working with a creative team you will devise a Theatre in Education (TIE) Musical. You will gain the fundamental knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create, rehearse and perform an original piece of theatre. By establishing an understanding of the role of Theatre in Education and exploring methods of storytelling, the module culminates in the performance of a devised, high-impact, live production which is toured to local Schools.

Collaborating with a Creative Team you will rehearse and perform a small-scale musical to be performed for a public audience with invited agents and casting directors. Using limited sets and costumes, this module will develop your personal creative process and introduce the workings of Fringe Theatre. You will be encouraged to explore text in depth with relation to thought-provoking, potentially provocative themes and issues. In addition to performing, you will take active creative and technical roles within the company, such as Assistant Director, MD or Choreographer, Head of Hair & Costume, Set Designer, Theatre Technician and Stage Manager.

Collaborating with a creative team you will rehearse and perform a large-scale musical for public performance with invited agents and casting directors. Rehearsals and performance emulate that of a professional commercial production. You will utilise the advanced application of your skills developed over the degree as you create and perform your character.

You will prepare for successful entry into the professional world of Musical Theatre by delving into the intricacies of the industry. You will receive guidance to prepare for the audition process by engaging with visiting industry professionals and participating in masterclasses and workshops. The concept of a 'Portfolio Career' or the 'Multi-Hyphenate Creative' will be explored, encouraging you to recognise and leverage your versatility and strengths across multiple potential roles. This module will introduce basic business skills, financial management and employment legislation so you can understand contracts, and taxation in addition to other relevant knowledge that will facilitate employment. You will create a CV, a ‘rep folder’ and a career plan.