This course is designed for students who have a performing career in mind. Taught at a high level it will challenge and shape each individual.
Free trial class available
We work at GCSE level, and include some texts and themes included in main stream syllabus. Students who take this course are expected to have, or be working towards, gaining considerable experience and a possible place in our theatre company before moving into full time performing arts further education at 16 or 18. As part of the course, students may work towards a Silver Arts Award, a UK qualification which can be counted towards GCSE, A Level and university courses (depending on the level taken), or simply used as a stand alone achievement.
'Triple threat' is an industry term for performers who are proficient in all three disciplines - Acting, Singing and Dancing. An actor who can sing and dance with some confidence has far more job opportunities than one who can't. Our triple threat +1 ensures that any aspiring young person gets more than just the 'basics'. After three hours of tutoring in music, dance and acting, each student must choose between a musical production (singing) or dance production class, where they join members of the older Artemis Productions. The result of this final class of the day will be seen various public performances, including festivals and a West End variety show in the autumn.
Course study includes:
* In drama, students will learn about famous play writers, film makers, genres and stage craft. Confidence, improved articulation and mastering the a more advanced grasp of the technical aspect of acting and performing (such as stage terminology) are three of the aims we set ourselves for our young actors. Students are also involved in the building and striking of any set used, and encouraged to direct and produce class pieces.
* In music students work on a song together, and learn to sight read sheet music.
* For dance, fitness and agility are key, with through warm ups, a routine and the basic steps to build up to devising show dance. The dance is fun and even 'non dancers' will want to take part!
* Each day concludes with a mixed group session with the theatre company, where the two groups together work on joint performance pieces at a suitably high level for public events. Students may choose which piece they work on (places are granted by booking order).
Some terms conclude with a show, which will be produced by the group to be played in a mid scale theatre. Other terms give tutors the chance to workshop on a variety of subjects, with special guests visiting (such as make up artists, song writers, vocal & dialect coaches).
The Advanced class is limited to 16 students to ensure the highest levels of attention and quality of training. The course is taught by male and female staff to ensure balance and sufficient role-modeling. Although we have set 12 as the guideline for joining, we will consider a younger person by interview/ group audition. 15 year olds may also audition for the Medusa theatre company as analternative group.
Priority booking is offered to those attending the previous term of classes. Other places are allocated on a first come, first served basis, through a waiting list system.
A uniform of a school teeshirt, black leggings or jazz pants and black jazz shoes is worn.
