Course Titles:
Technical Theatre (? x 2 yrs, full time) - BA (Hons) Degree (early autumn intake)
Technical Theatre (? x 1 yr, full time) - PG Diploma (January - October)
Validating Body: Middlesex University / NCDT
Entry requirements: GCE/GCSE, A level, Interview and portfolio
Minimum age: 18 (21 for 1 PG year course)
Closing Date: (application direct to Admissions Officer)
Principal: Paul Clements MA Cert. Ed
Course Leader: Francesca Greatorex

Course Descriptions:
The degree is an exciting and unique fast-track route which provides students with the theory, practical knowledge and hands-on experience needed in order to achieve a career in theatre and the entertainment industry. We encourage students to be good communicators, flexible, multi-skilled, adaptable theatre practitioners.
The degree is structured in four main subject areas: Stage Management - as well as being introduced to the stage management team and their individual roles, students learn about theatre history, present day theatre infrastructure, text and score reading, scheduling and budgeting; Lighting and Sound - Health and Safety is an important part of this course, students learn how to rig and focus, understand about colour theory, basic installation theory and creating a lighting plan; sound work includes: Making up cables, using effects units, monitoring and system set-up for musical theatre use; Design - students look at the use of colour and form, model making skills, prop making, research skills, costume making, printing, dyeing and scenic painting processes; Construction - students learn how to use and operate safely major workshop tools, production of stock scenery, technical drawing, CAD, construction drawings, metalwork and wood turning.
All students must take these four main areas, although there is the opportunity to specialise in one. The first year is dedicated to giving a strong foundation in all areas of technical theatre and is delivered through workshops, lectures, visits, research projects and practical exercises. During the second year, students work on the many public performances we produce in our two theatres, taking on different show roles such as lighting designer, stage manager, sound designer, set designer or master carpenter.
Graduates can expect to work in the profession in such roles as stage manager, sound designer, carpenter and theatre electrician.
The one year postgraduate diploma course is designed for those with a background in theatre or with an intense interest in theatre, or for mature people with appropriate experience who wish to train professionally or extend their knowledge in one of five main areas: Stage Management; Lighting Design; Sound Design; Construction; Set or Prop Design.
The first term is classroom or workshop based and there are a range of disciplines and skills to choose from allowing students to tailor their course to their needs and requirements. The second and third terms provide students with the opportunity to take on production work for instance as set designer or lighting designer. Students are encouraged where appropriate to undertake a professional attachment and students will be expected to show initiative and to play a substantial part in making contacts with appropriate organisations.