Certificate of Higher Education - Acting for Stage and Screen (W410)

This course provides a foundation in acting and can prepare students for further study, either at East 15 or at other acclaimed acting schools. The intention is to help create actors who will have an intellectual as well as a vocational life in the theatre, introducing students to the concepts and mechanics behind each. The Certificate of Higher Education in Theatre Arts is a highly focused exploration of acting techniques and aims to introduce students to the context that gives each theatrical era its distinctive identity. This includes (on a practical level) movement, music, improvisational skills and acting. Overall, it is an intensively practical scheme.

Throughout the three terms, students undertake a number of compulsory modules. These cover audition technique, movement, voice and singing. During the first two terms at the Southend Campus, students are also introduced to acting courses that specialize in Stage Combat, Physical Theatre, Community Theatre and World Performance.

In addition to exploring the history and theory of theatre and its relation to other arts forms, students have regular opportunities to attend performances of plays, music and dance, as well as to visit art galleries, films and relevant historic sites.

During the year, students may audition for places on one of the acting courses at East 15. Many students are also accepted at other drama schools or at university drama departments. Students will be helped to choose and prepare scenes for audition purposes. University of Essex's international, outstanding teaching faculty is made up of professionals from all areas of live and recorded performance.