Performance Industries (Top-up)

The BA (Hons) Performance Industries is a top-up course designed for those who have an interest in the Performance Arts and who already hold a Foundation Degree, a Higher National Diploma or an equivalent higher level qualification in a related subject. The course aims to build on students’ skills, knowledge, and experience of their performance specialism (Popular Music, Performing Arts, Musical Theatre, or Dance) in order to prepare them for employment within the Performance based strand of the Creative Industries. It combines work-based learning with academic study and aims to develop students’ existing skills and knowledge of the standards and expectations of the industry. It also aims to enhance students’ general and creative skills. Learning will be enhanced by links with the Theatre Royal Wakefield, working professionals, a range of educational and industrial visits, and subject specialist performance based workshops. Students will also be given the opportunity to enhance their skills via a range of subject specialism performances throughout the year. The programme is designed to focus on the individual. Distinctive Features - Professional development and employability is at the heart of the programme in both its design and delivery - Enhanced learning through subject specialist performance based workshops and performances that are delivered by subject specialist tutors, professional performers and industry based practitioners - The Industry Experience module allows students to undertake a work placement in a relevant area of the Performance Industries, to establish direct links with industry personnel, and to gain an understanding of an organisation’s working practices. - The development of responsibility, autonomy and self-motivation in the development of an industry based personalised career portfolio. - Strong focus on the active learner and the embedding of the development and practice of this skill in order to aid the transition from “student” of the Performance Industries to “practitioner..

An exploration of the theoretical concepts associated with Performing Arts or Popular Music underpins the practical aspects of the course. Through practical classes you will develop a wide range of performance techniques drawn from world-renowned practitioners and theorists enabling you to become a versatile performer. Areas you’ll explore include the historical development of creative industries, professional development, and preparation, process and production. This course will provide you with the opportunity to apply your experience in the studios in a diverse range of performance arenas such as community-based contexts, performance projects, and theatre-based performances.

You'll learn through practical workshops, interactive lectures, resource-based learning, individual and group work, tutorials, discussion, critiques and rehearsals. Other teaching methods include formal lectures, seminars, tutorials, residentials, visiting companies and attendance at performances. Individual or group projects will culminate in public and non-public performance and you’ll have the opportunity to reflect critically on your own performance and that of others.
Course Structure
Classroom based: 25% Practical work: 75%
Nature of Assessments on the Programme
Formative assessment will be ongoing within teaching and learning sessions and will comprise of peer and self-assessment as well as tutor assessment, which is externally verified.