Ask These Questions To Help You Choose A Course In Theatre
Do you know what theatre course you’re going to decide to apply to? Well, if you’re like most people you possibly don’t. So, we’ve compiled a list of different things to consider before you decide on a specific course to begin in. Take a look at these great tips.
- Are you interested in specializing?
There are many different skills that fall under the umbrella term, ‘technical theatre.’ This field includes crafts such as scenic art, sound and lighting design, as well as stage management. Each of these roles has little in common with the others. You would never expect a talented scenic art person to have the same skill set as an organized deputy stage manager.
If you already know what area you want to do a specialty in, choose a course that allows you to learn that role while providing plenty of scope. Perhaps you want to take a performing arts course in New York or do theatre design in London – this is your chance to make a decision. If you aren’t sure which area will work best for you, then consider taking a general course that allows you to specialize once you develop.
- Does the school provide opportunities for your chosen specialty?
You need to choose a course that has a paint frame if you are learning the ins and outs of scenic art. The school should have the kinds of boards and lanterns available professionally if you choose to learn lighting design there. Check to see what is available before you sign up because the facilities are important even though they are not the be all and end all.
- Will you be able to collaborate with other courses in your course?
Find out if the acting courses in the drama schools you are considering work together with the technical theatre courses. For example, would students in the technical courses get the opportunity to be stage manager on public productions? Check to see if these opportunities would be available to you because this is a vital part of the learning experience.
- Does the course have links with the industry?
You get the chance to see how theatre really operates when your course is linked to the industry. Find out if your chances for future employment will be better because there are placement opportunities available within decent production and theatre companies.
- Who is in charge of your course?
It is a relatively new thing to have degree courses in technical theatrical disciplines. In the past, there were vocational diplomas only. You might argue that the academic model of study does not fit with the craft-based vocational skills required. However, in the majority of the courses that you will take with this new structure for getting a degree, you won’t often come across a course that is run by academics. If you do, run away from them as quickly as you can. You need to have instructors who understand how the real world operates when it comes to theatre.
These five points should help you see a clearer path when choosing your course.
