MA Musical Theatre – (M.A.)

This course places a very strong emphasis on the practical acquisition of technical skills in acting, singing and dancing and provides opportunities to integrate these skills in musical theatre rehearsal projects and performances. There will be classes in ballet, jazz and tap together with group and individual singing tutorials and classes in voice and acting. The course aims to develop versatile, skilled and confident performers who can approach a wide variety of musical genres with a sound contextual understanding and who are able to both reflect upon and critically evaluate practice in the field.

The course is specifically designed for those who already have an undergraduate degree or have worked as a professional performer for at least five years.

We are looking for talented individuals who can sing and dance and who have the necessary self-discipline and motivation needed to enable swift progression in both the acquisition of new skills and the development of existing capabilities. Previous students have included Law, Business, Drama and Engineering graduates as well as professional dancers, cabaret performers and models.

The principles of the teaching are the same as those of the three-year courses although we assume that students who undertake this course will have a greater degree of experience and thus be further advanced in their professional development. The course is therefore an intensive training in all aspects of musical theatre, explored through practical classes, seminars and rehearsal projects. There is at least one major public performance together with a showcase of scenes and musical numbers presented to casting directors and agents in Guildford and at a West End theatre.

We aim to create a carefully selected and committed ensemble of performers-in- training, which will contribute to a disciplined, stimulating and mutually supportive learning environment in which you can be fully prepared for a successful career in the performing arts industry.
In particular we aim to:
• Facilitate the development of your vocal and physical instrument to the maximum potential.
• Broaden your practical experience and critical understanding of a variety of musical theatre styles and genres.
• Impart skills and techniques that will improve your chances of professional employment.