UAL Level 4 Professional Diploma in Performance

The Level 4 Professional Theatre & Performance course is an immersive and dynamic program designed to provide you with a comprehensive foundation in various aspects of performing arts, including musical theatre, contemporary and classical acting and devised performance. This course is perfect for individuals who are passionate about exploring their creative potential, developing their artistic skills, and pursuing a career in the world of performing arts.

The course is structured to offer a balanced blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, enabling you to build a strong foundation in performing arts. It spans one academic year and is divided into multiple units that cover a wide range of subjects within the performing arts realm, preparing students for a professional career in the industry.

This course offers a holistic approach to performing arts education, nurturing creative talents, fostering collaboration, and preparing you for a future in the exciting and diverse world of performing arts.

You will have the unique opportunity of performing in at least four performance projects to a live audience throughout the course, allowing you to develop continuously as a professional performer. At the end of the course, you will perform in an agent showcase, which will allow you to make essential contacts with both casting agents and theatre companies to start your journey in the professional industry.

Choosing the Level 4 Professional Theatre & Performance course isn't just about learning performance techniques; it's about embarking on a transformative journey that will equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in the performing arts industry while fostering personal growth and artistic exploration.

The course curriculum is carefully crafted to align with industry standards and practices. By receiving training that reflects the demands of the professional performing arts industry, you will gain the practical skills and knowledge needed to thrive in auditions, performances, and various production roles.

You will delve into core disciplines of performing arts, including acting, dance, and vocal performance. The Level 4 Professional Theatre a& Performance course places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, you will receive rigorous training in musical theatre, classical and contemporary theatre, improvisation and devised theatre.

Throughout the program, you will have numerous chances to perform in various settings, both in-house and in the community, honing your stage presence, adaptability, and ability to work under pressure – all essential skills for a successful performer.

Collaboration is a cornerstone of performing arts so students will participate in collaborative projects, working with peers from various disciplines to create integrated performances. This fosters teamwork, communication skills, and the ability to adapt to different artistic styles.

Alongside practical training, you will explore the theoretical aspects of performing arts. This will include studying the history of performing arts in comparison to modern and innovative arts practices, analysing your own personal progress and development throughout the course, and understanding the cultural and social significance of various art forms and practitioners.

Through regular performances, constructive feedback, and continuous improvement, syou will gain a sense of confidence that extends beyond the stage. The ability to present oneself effectively and communicate with impact is a transferable skill applicable in various aspects of life.

Upon completing the Level 4 Professional Theatre & Performance, graduates are equipped with a versatile skill set that opens doors to various career pathways. Whether it's pursuing roles in theatre, film, television, voice acting, or even branching into directing and production, the possibilities are vast. Previous students have pursued careers with Disney, Sky TV, community projects and secured roles in London’s West End.

The performing arts industry thrives on connections, and this course provides an environment where students can build valuable relationships. Currently we have a partnership with the Liverpool Empire Theatre which includes guest lectures, specialist workshops, and collaborations with industry professionals allowing students to expand their network and gain insights into the practicalities of the field. We also have connections within the local community with companies such as Culture Warrington and Community Objectives to allow students to develop links within Warrington as well as the wider North West.

We have a team of staff dedicated to providing learning support if required, as well as a Welfare Team that is on hand to offer guidance, support and help when needed. Additionally, eligible students can access a wide range of finance and funding support to help them during their time at college.

Click here for learning support: https://wvr.ac.uk/college-life/learning-support

Click here for finance support: https://wvr.ac.uk/college-life/financial-support

Within the performing arts department, we have a fully equipped, newly refurbished 162 seat theatre, alongside 2 bespoke studios for both singing, acting and dance, which allows students to build and develop their skills whilst performing in professional performance and rehearsal spaces.

One of the hallmarks of this course is its faculty of experienced professionals who have a deep understanding of the performing arts industry. Their guidance, mentorship, and insights provide students with a unique opportunity to learn from those who have first-hand experience in the field.

You will typically have one of the following:

• A BTEC level 3 or other level 3 qualification in a related subject, minimum MPP or MM
• T Level with overall grade Pass
• A minimum of two A-Levels (A2) with one in a related subject at grade C or above
• Access to HE with relevant options

AND

• A* to C grade and/or 9 to 4 in GCSE English (language or literature)

Non-native English speakers who have not undertaken their final two years of schooling in English need to demonstrate capability in English at a standard equivalent to the levels identified below. This is necessary before being recruited to the programme, as the programme is both taught and assessed in English:

• Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level B2
• IELTS 5.5; reading and writing must be 5.5.

Mature students who have appropriate work experience in a related sector or role and/or have professional qualifications in a related industry are welcome to apply.

As part of the admissions process you will be required to submit an acting or singing self-tape of no more than 2 minutes. You will also be required to provide a reference from one of the following options:

• A previous course leader/teacher (if progressing from a recently attended further or higher education course)
• A recent or current employer
• An appropriate professional who can provide a character reference (if you have not been in recent education or employment).

For further information about funding, please contact our Learner Services Team on 01925 494400 or learner.services@wvr.ac.uk.

You are expected to wear all black clothing that you are able to move in for all sessions.

In previous years, students have attended trips to The Liverpool Empire and other regional theatres during the duration of their course, at an average cost of £10 per student per trip.

The college provides all students with £3 print credit, any further printing will incur a cost.