Welcome As President of Mountview it gives me real pleasure to introduce you to this fine academy which enjoys a worldwide reputation for excellence. This is the first step on your stimulating journey to entering a complex and exciting industry. Of course there is no easy route to success and there can be no guarantees, but professional training will prepare you for the start of what I hope will be a long, fulfilling and fruitful career. This prospectus beautifully details the courses available to you whether you want to train for performance or the production arts. If you come to Mountview you will attend an academy where all the staff are dedicated to helping you get the very best out of your training. I wish you every success for the future.
Dame Judi Dench CH DBE President
To succeed in the theatre and its related industries you need talent, dedication and a broad range of skills. You need to be prepared for anything and able to adapt for the fast pace of work.
Contents
A diverse and detailed training is vital and at Mountview you will benefit from experienced and inspiring teachers working alongside industry professionals who are experts in their fields. Everyone is here to help prepare students for a career in what I think is the best industry in the world.
4 · WHY STUDY AT MOUNTVIEW? 5 · PERFORMANCE
Good luck.
15 · SHORT COURSES
Vikki Heywood CBE Chairman
16 · PRODUCTION Mountview is a very special place where everyone is passionate about what they do and dedicated to providing first-rate training for the theatre profession. It is this passion and dedication on which Mountview’s reputation is built. Individual talent is nurtured in a caring and supportive environment where personal trust and professional respect are vital and everyone’s contribution is valued.
19 · STAFF AND GUEST PRACTITIONERS 20 · LIFE AT MOUNTVIEW
We welcome individuals from all backgrounds and all parts of the globe who share our passion for learning and the theatre.
21 · HOW TO APPLY
With very best wishes for your future career.
22 · FEES AND FUNDING Sue Robertson Principal
HELLO AGAIN by Michael John LaChiusa
ACTING SHOWCASE mountview.org.uk · @mountviewLDN
Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
Why Study at Mountview? “Mountview has been the perfect springboard into the industry for me. My studies gave me the time to grow and find my strengths that will be with me throughout my acting career.” Ffion Jones · Acting Graduate 2012 – Stella (Sky One), So I Go Back (Greenwich Theatre)
DAYS OF SIGNIFICANCE by Roy Williams
PERFORMANCE Mountview offers the highest quality training for actors, actor musicians, musical theatre actors, directors and musical directors. Courses are designed to develop technical skills through classes and performance opportunities, with sessions in workshop environments to inspire imaginative engagement and develop intellectual curiosity. These workshops are collegiate, not competitive. They are places where students can take risks, expand their range and develop strength, subtlety and nuance.
Students work not only with Mountview’s experienced full-time teaching staff but also with current theatre practitioners: directors, set designers, lighting and sound designers, choreographers, musical directors, actors and stage managers (see page 19). As well as keeping students in touch with current professional practice, this provides valuable contacts on completion of the course. These links are further strengthened by our industry liaison office which builds relationships with agents and casting directors.
Mountview is one of the UK’s leading drama schools. We have a well-established and international reputation for providing the highest quality training for actors, directors and theatre technicians in all areas of the industry: stage, TV, film and radio. We offer intensive, practical training with all students receiving over thirty hours of teaching each week. Students work in small groups and also receive regular one-to-one sessions with personal tutors and specialist practitioners. Courses are structured to give students a thorough grounding in all aspects of their chosen field. The coaching develops a high level of skill and diversity of range giving the tools to succeed in a competitive industry.
London is the best possible city for training actors and theatre technicians. A huge range of theatre, dance, cabaret, music, art and performance is on our doorstep in both West End and fringe venues and students greatly benefit from the chance to experience this rich variety.
New writing plays a key part in the curriculum and students work with leading writers and composers to devise and develop work.
Mountview is dynamic, vibrant and supportive. Study here requires dedication and talent but the rewards are great.
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Acting is at the heart of Mountview’s training and informs all performance training. Our tutors identify each individual’s skills and build on them, at the same time working on areas needing improvement to create a rounded performer or director. The ultimate goal is professional employment. Courses are focussed on preparing students for a rich and diverse performance career by providing the best possible training.
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Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
BA (Hons) in Performance · Acting Diploma in Professional Acting
BA (Hons) in Performance · Actor musician BA validated by the University of East Anglia
BA validated by the University of East Anglia | Diploma validated by Trinity College London | BA and Diploma accredited by Drama UK 3 YEARS
3 YEARS
Students work on a number of performance projects across the first two years including contemporary writing, Shakespeare, European and American drama which are presented to colleagues. Students also have the opportunity to devise and create original work. Feedback is given on each student's work throughout the course, with performance strengths and weaknesses examined and advice offered on areas of future development.
YEAR 3 Public performance is the focus of the third year and students present a range of productions and a professional showcase to agents, casting directors and other industry figures as well as the general public. Roles are cast to highlight individual talents with students given a range of different-sized roles over the year. Opportunities to engage in film work and a musical are included in the final year’s repertoire to prepare students for a diverse performance career. Third year students create a show reel and work closely with Mountview’s industry liaison office to hone their CVs and prepare for agents’ interviews and auditions.
KIMALIA by Tim Luscombe
An engaging and thorough training in the craft of acting that prepares students for work in contemporary theatre and its associated industries. Study is carried out through direct engagement in practical work. No one learned to be a good actor just by reading a book: experiment, practice and performance are the key.
an actor. Students work in small groups exploring the full potential of their natural abilities and expanding their range of physical, imaginative, intellectual and performance skills. Training includes regular classes in: ACTING | ACTING FOR CAMERA | ACTOR & TEXT | ANIMAL MOVEMENT | CLOWN WORK |
YEAR 1 & 2 The focus of the first two years is on practical exploration of the many skills required of
DANCE | IMPROVISATION | MOVEMENT | RADIO TECHNIQUE | SIGHT READING | SINGING | STAGE COMBAT | VERSE SPEAKING | VOICE
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Qualification assessment is based on the final year’s performances. Students are also marked on a working notebook in which they reflect on and examine their practice. Students who receive a Dance and Drama Award, funded by the Education Funding Agency, will follow and be awarded the Trinity College London Diploma in Professional Acting in addition to completing the BA (Hons) in Performance. HOW TO APPLY P.21
There is an ever-increasing demand from the theatre industry for performers who combine first-rate acting ability with a high level of musicianship. Mountview’s Actor Musician degree develops these dual skills to the highest level, enabling graduates to work professionally as actors on stage, as musicians, or as performers who can combine musicianship and acting.
HAMLET by William Shakespeare
Mountview’s core creative teaching staff is supported by specialist music tutors who teach specific modules in music theory and provide individual instrument tuition.
YEAR 1 & 2 Over the first two years, study mirrors Mountview’s actor training but with specialised music elements. Instrument work runs through many of the workshops which cover: ACTING | ACTING FOR CAMERA | ACTOR & TEXT | ANIMAL MOVEMENT | CLOWN WORK | DANCE | IMPROVISATION | MOVEMENT | MUSIC THEORY & PRACTICE | SIGHT READING | SINGING | STAGE COMBAT | VERSE SPEAKING | VOICE
Across the first two years students present a range of performance projects to colleagues, including Shakespeare, contemporary plays and musicals. Students also have the opportunity to devise and create original work. Students receive feedback on their work throughout the course, with performance strengths and weaknesses examined and advice offered on areas of future development. Students with Grade 8-level playing who wish to take a DipMus qualification will be able to do so through extra-curricular study.
YEAR 3 Public performance is the focus of the third year and students present a range of plays, musicals and a professional showcase to agents, casting directors and other industry figures as well as the general public. Roles are cast to highlight individual talents with students given a range of different-sized roles over the year. The opportunity to engage in film work is included in the final year’s repertoire to prepare students for a diverse performance career. Third year students create a show reel and work closely with Mountview’s industry liaison office to hone their CVs and prepare for agents’ interviews and auditions.
HOW TO APPLY P.21
Qualification assessment is based on the final year’s performances. Students will also be marked on a working notebook in which they reflect on and examine their practice.
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Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
BA (Hons) in Performance · Musical Theatre Diploma in Professional Musical Theatre BA validated by the University of East Anglia | Diploma validated by Trinity College London | BA and Diploma accredited by Drama UK
“Training at Mountview gave me many new skills and the confidence to experiment. With a supportive environment and an intensive working schedule, I got the very best opportunities in my three years.” Claudia Kariuki · Musical Theatre Graduate 2012 Ragtime (Regent’s Park Open Air), Sweet Smell of Success (Arcola), Hairspray (UK/Ireland tour)
3 YEARS
YEAR 3
42ND STREET by Harry Warren | Al Dubin | Michael Stewart | Mark Bramble
Public performance is the focus of the third year and students present a range of musicals and a professional showcase to agents, casting directors and other industry figures as well as the general public. Roles are cast to highlight individual talents with students given a range of different-sized roles over the year. Opportunities to engage in film work and a play are included in the final year’s repertoire to prepare students for a diverse performance career. Third year students create a show reel and work closely with Mountview’s industry liaison office to hone their CVs and prepare for agents’ interviews and auditions. Qualification assessment is based on the final year’s performances. Students will also be marked on a working notebook in which they reflect on and examine their practice. Students who receive a Dance and Drama Award, funded by the Education Funding Agency, will follow and be awarded the Trinity College London Diploma in Professional Acting in addition to completing the BA (Hons) in Performance.
GIRLFRIENDS by Howard Goodall | Richard Curtis | John Retallack
Musical theatre continues to dominate the theatre industry both in the UK and internationally and skilled musical theatre performers are in demand like never before. Mountview’s renowned training in this field grounds students with the three skills needed to succeed: acting, dancing and singing.
HOW TO APPLY P.21
PROFILE Stephen Jameson · Director of Performance
YEAR 1 & 2 Training begins with dance warm-up and continues throughout the day with classes, rehearsals and performances. Acting is at the heart of training and informs all other areas of study: singing, dance, movement and voice.
Before joining Mountview Stephen was an Associate Director at LAMDA where he directed over 70 plays and musicals. Stephen originally trained as an actor and spent the first ten years of his career acting at theatres
Over the first two years students receive regular classes in:
including the Old Vic, Almeida Theatre and Theatre
ACTING | ACTING FOR CAMERA | ACTING THROUGH SONG | ACTOR &
Royal Stratford East and travelling the world with the
TEXT | BALLET | ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE | IMPROVISATION | JAZZ |
English Shakespeare Company. As a director Stephen
MOVEMENT | MUSIC THEORY | SIGHT READING | SINGING | TAP | VOICE
has created work for the Young Vic, Globe International
Over the first two years students work with directors, choreographers and musical directors to present studio performances of plays and musicals, including works from the Golden Age of Broadway, British and American standards and contemporary musicals. Students also have the opportunity to devise and create original work.
Shakespeare Festival in Neuss, Queille Festival in Toulouse, National Theatre in Seoul and Acteerstudio, Den Haag. He has taught and directed at Guildhall School of Music and Drama and Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and written and adapted work for both radio
Students receive feedback on their work throughout the course, with performance strengths and weaknesses examined and advice offered on areas of future development.
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and theatre.
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Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
MA IN PERFORMANCE · ACTING POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN ACTING
MA IN PERFORMANCE · MUSICAL THEATRE POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA MUSICAL THEATRE
Validated by the University of East Anglia
Validated by the University of East Anglia
1 YEAR
1 YEAR
This course provides an intensive threeterm, 45-week programme of vocationallydriven study and practice. The postgraduate acting course ensures that each individual student is nurtured, encouraged and advanced through rigorous personal and professional development. Delivered by actors, directors and other key industry professionals, it provides practical techniques and skills which enable innate acting ability to flourish. Study is carried out through direct engagement in practical work. As a one-year course there is much ground to cover and students must be prepared for hard work.
TERM 1 & 2 Classes focus on key skills: ACTING | ACTING FOR CAMERA | APPROACH TO TEXT | DANCE | IMPROVISATION |
BERNARDA ALBA by Michael John LaChiusa
MOVEMENT | RADIO TECHNIQUE | SIGHT READING | SINGING | STAGE COMBAT | VOICE
TERM 3 Students take part in TV and film workshops, work on audition technique, hone their CVs with Mountview’s industry liaison office and create a show reel. They also rehearse and perform a fully-staged public production and present a professional showcase attended by agents, casting directors and other prominent industry professionals. Assessments take place throughout the course and following each performance project. These assessments are central to the development and individual journey of each student, examining work and progress to date and advising on the focus for the next steps of the apprentice actor’s journey. Students wishing to gain an MA qualification will undertake lectures and weekly dissertation seminars alongside their other studies.
TV and film workshops. Students also present a professional showcase attended by agents, casting directors and other prominent industry professionals, work on audition skills, create a show reel and hone their CVs with Mountview’s industry liaison office.
Mountview’s MA in Performance – Musical Theatre provides a thorough musical theatre training delivered in 45 weeks over three terms of focused practice, rehearsal and study. The essential elements of musical theatre craft – acting, singing and dance – are taught by leading practitioners, giving students an intensive year of learning, grounding their skills, developing their performance and preparing them for a career in musical theatre. To get the most out of the course, class work must be backed up with rehearsal and practice in students’ own time.
Performance projects include two contemporary plays and Shakespeare.
Assessments take place at the end of each term and following each performance project. These assessments are central to the development and individual journey of each student, examining work and progress to date and advising on the focus for the next stage. The MA and Postgraduate Diploma courses follow the same intensive programme with those taking the MA option undertaking lectures and weekly dissertation seminars alongside their other studies.
TERM 1 & 2 THIS CHILD by Joël Pommerat
Students take classes in key skills:
MA candidates submit a creative project which demonstrates an analytical, critical and practical exploration of performance practice. This is supported by a project map, presentation and critical evaluation.
ACTING | ACTING FOR CAMERA | ACTING THROUGH SONG | BALLET |
MA candidates submit a creative project which demonstrates an analytical, critical and practical exploration of performance practice. This is supported by a project map, presentation and critical evaluation. The MA option can be applied for before the course starts or may be taken up on arrival on the Diploma programme.
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MA candidates without a recognised degree qualification (2:2 or above) are required to undertake an access assignment before being considered.
BODY CONDITIONING | IMPROVISATION | JAZZ | SIGHT READING | SINGING
HOW TO APPLY P.20
TERM 3
| STAGE COMBAT | SPEECH | TAP | VOICE
The MA option can be applied for before the course starts or may be taken up on arrival on the Diploma programme. MA candidates without a recognised degree qualification (2:2 or above) are required to undertake an access assignment before being considered.
Performance projects include modern text and three book musicals.
HOW TO APPLY P.21
Students present fully-staged performances, including a classic or contemporary musical and prepare for work in front of a camera with
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Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
MA in Theatre Directing Postgraduate Diploma in Theatre Directing Validated by the University of East Anglia 1 YEAR
SISTERS, SUCH DEVOTED SISTERS by Russell Barr
The MA/Postgraduate Diploma in Theatre Directing is an intensive, vocational course for a strictly limited number of prospective theatre directors.
Lectures, seminars and workshops cover a broad mix of subjects:
Mountview's Theatre Directing graduates have a reputation for clarity, professionalism, imaginative engagement and leadership and have gone on to work for the UK’s leading theatre companies, in the West End and on Broadway.
PROCESSES | TECHNICAL THEATRE CRAFT | WORKSHOP TECHNIQUES
ADAPTATION | ANALYSIS & INTERPRETATION | BUDGETING | CASTING | DRAMATURGY | DESIGN | MUSICAL THEATRE | PLAY MAKING | REHEARSAL
Practical work includes directing plays with second year and MA students and assisting professional directors on plays and in workshops. A final showcase production to which agents, directors and other industry professionals are invited is cast from Mountview’s graduating third year students. MA students also complete a dissertation arising from an aspect of their work.
The core principle of the course is to develop the unique voice of each student director, providing the experience and insight to make informed, creative and practical choices. The course concentrates on a rigorous approach to text in performance, understanding the actor's process, collaborating with writers and other artists and considering different audiences. The fundamental elements of casting, budgeting and contracting are also covered.
The MA option can be applied for before the course starts or may be taken up on arrival on the Diploma programme. MA candidates without a recognised degree qualification (2:2 or above) are required to undertake an access assignment before being considered.
Throughout the course the emphasis is on challenge, enquiry and learning through practice. Teaching is delivered by resident and freelance staff and leading professional theatre practitioners from various disciplines.
HOW TO APPLY P.21
postgraduate diploma in Musical Direction 1 YEAR
The Postgraduate Diploma in Musical Direction offers up to three suitably qualified practitioners the opportunity to work alongside musical directors throughout the course of the academic year. This course is designed to give professional-level experience in the art of musical direction. Students benefit from assisting on a wide range of projects across all of the performance programmes at Mountview with close supervision and mentoring from academic staff and visiting practitioners.
TERM 2 Students act as assistant MD on third year musical theatre productions at venues across London, receive individual singing lessons to gain practical knowledge of the voice and its training and assist on musical theatre students’ professional showcases.
TERM 3
Running over ten months this course is suitable for highly motivated musicians with professional standard piano skills and a wide knowledge of musical theatre repertoire. Previous experience in arranging and conducting is recommended but not essential.
Students assist on postgraduate musical theatre public performances. Throughout the year masterclasses with visiting specialists develop skills in arranging, conducting and musical direction. Students also learn keyboard programming and write their own vocal arrangements and orchestrations for performance. Weekly one-to-one tutorials examine each student’s development and focus on specific areas of musical direction.
Study includes participation in performance tuition in order to gain a thorough understanding of the skills demanded of a professional actor, accompanying professional music and singing tutors and assisting visiting musical directors.
“What’s great is that Mountview was a very safe environment to rehearse a play. I could treat it like an exploration rather than a project that had to deliver commercially. The pressures were different - I had the chance to develop how to talk to actors, to the designer, to the lighting designer. It was fantastic.” Michael Fentiman · Postgraduate Diploma in Theatre Directing – BBC, Royal Shakespeare Company
Students are assessed on their practical work throughout the course with feedback given on their progress. Students are also required to keep a working notebook over the year critically evaluating their own practice as well as that of professional musicians with whom they have worked.
TERM 1 Students participate in acting, voice and group singing classes, accompany singing lessons and assist professional musical directors on second year musical theatre students’ performances of classic book musicals.
The course content is subject to change depending on level at entry and students’ development throughout the year. HOW TO APPLY P.21
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THE FIX by Dana P. Rowe | John Dempsey
THERE IS A WAR by Tom Basden
GUYS AND DOLLS by Frank Loesser | Jo Swerling | Abe Burrows
BASSETT by James Graham
COMPLEAT FEMALE STAGE BEAUTY by Jeffrey Hatcher
GRADUATES RECENT GRADUATES HAVE GONE ON TO WORK ACROSS THE UK AND INTERNATIONALLY IN COMPANIES AND ON PRODUCTIONS INCLUDING::
Almeida Theatre | The Book of Mormon | Bush Theatre | Clwyd Theatr Cymru | Donmar Warehouse | ENO | Gate Theatre | Jerusalem | Les Misérables | London 2012 Olympics Opening & Closing Ceremonies | Mamma Mia! | Manchester Royal Exchange | National Opera of Slovenia | National Theatre | Old Vic | Phantom of the Opera | Royal Court | RSC | Shakespeare’s Globe | Sheffield Crucible | Theatre Royal Stratford East | Welsh National Opera | West Yorkshire Playhouse | We Will Rock You | Wicked | Young Vic
ALUMNI Maria Aberg | Kelly Adams | Mina Anwar | Glynis Barber | Callum Blue | Alecky Blythe | Rikki Chamberlain | Joanna Christie | Lyndsey Coulson | Brendan Coyle | Josh Dallas | Tim Downie | Tim Dutton | Sally Dynevor | Justin Edwards | Michael Fentiman | Connie Fisher | Michael French | Don Gilet | Edward Hall | Douglas Henshall | Amanda Holden | Leanne Jones | Ayub Khan Din | Ashley Kumar | Leigh Lawson | Michael Longhurst | Charlotte Loughnane | Eddie Marsan | Rhona Mitra | Nick Moran | Joe Murphy | James Powell | Kelly Price | Matt Rawle | Sharon Small | Ken Stott | Oliver Thornton | Denise Welch
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Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
FOUNDATION COURSES · MUSICAL THEATRE · ACTING
SHORT COURSES
Musical Theatre Full-time (30 weeks) · Acting Part-time (30 weeks)
1 YEAR
WEEKEND | ONE WEEK | TWO WEEKS
Acting
Mountview’s Foundation courses in Acting and Musical Theatre equip students with a solid base of skills, discipline and experience and offer a valuable stepping stone to further full-time drama training. With competition for places on full-time courses becoming ever tougher, foundation courses give students a vital edge.
This part-time evening foundation develops creativity and introduces essential performance techniques and styles in preparation for fulltime professional training.
Taught by the same core creative staff as our BA and MA degrees, they provide rigorous drama training and equip students with the tools needed to become self-led creative artists.
Classes take place three times a week and focus on the main discipline areas of acting, voice and movement.
Classes are taught in groups of 14-16. Entry is by audition and students must be at least 18 years old at the start of the course.
The course covers a broad range of training techniques and performance styles to create versatile and adaptable actors who have a strong sense of individuality and identity.
Musical Theatre
Skills-based classes and performance work throughout the training will include:
This course provides a rounded initial training in the 'triple threat' musical theatre skills. Following an intensive programme of classes and performance projects, the course offers an average teaching contact time of 30 hours per week. Classes cover:
ACTOR’S MOVEMENT | AUDITION PREPARATION | CHARACTER | CLASSICAL & MODERN TEXT | CREATIVE PRACTICE | DEVISED PERFORMANCE | IMPROVISATION | VOICE
Students work towards a final end-of-year performance, leaving the course with a grounded approach to rehearsal and performance.
ACTING | ACTING THROUGH SONG | AUDITION PREPARATION | CREATIVE PRACTICE | DANCE | MOVEMENT | SINGING | VOICE
This course is ideal for students who wish to work full-time while they study.
Additional training includes masterclasses and cultural visits.
HOW TO APPLY P.21
Students work on performance projects including creative story-telling, contemporary and classic book musicals and an end-of-course revue.
“I like street dance here. You get to input how you feel about dancing or the routines. It's like our own little community. When our end of term performance comes along you really feel the warmth and achievement.” Nikole Martin (aged 15) · Summer School Student
Mountview’s two-week introduction to drama school courses provide a realistic glimpse of professional drama school training and are aimed at young people planning on applying to drama school. The short, engaging courses offer concise, intensive training in acting, musical theatre, TV and film acting and audition preparation and culminate in a special performance for family and friends.
Mountview offers a range of engaging and enjoyable short courses for adults and young people over weekends and summer holidays. The programme is focused on providing the opportunity for everyone, regardless of age, background or previous performance experience, to have access to professional drama training in one of the country’s leading drama schools.
The young people's programme offers a creative outlet for six to 18-year-olds through regular Saturday classes and summer holiday courses. A number of bursaries are available to young people from Haringey allowing free and reduced price access to drama training.
Short courses are an affordable and fun way to get a taste of theatre school life, to develop talent and learn new skills. For adults Mountview's one-week and weekend summer experiences provide top level drama training for amateur actors, musical theatre performers and directors. They are aimed at those looking to develop their skills and experience professional rehearsal practices.
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For more information visit mountview.org.uk/shortcourses
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THE SECRET GARDEN by Lucy Simon | Marsha Norman mountview.org.uk · @mountviewLDN
Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
BA (Hons) in theatre production arts BA Validated by Middlesex University | Accredited by Drama UK
2 YEARS
A fast-track, two-year degree in Theatre Production Arts, this course gives students a faster route into the industry or on to specialist postgraduate training and also attracts people wanting to change careers. The course requires commitment and dedication but is delivered in a highly supportive environment by a team of theatre practitioners and visiting freelance industry professionals.
YEAR 1 The first year of the programme helps students build their theoretical knowledge and practical experience of working in the different technical theatre disciplines. Workshops and seminars led by resident staff and leading professional theatre freelancers cover the skills that every successful technical practitioner requires: CONSTRUCTION | DESIGN & APPLIED ARTS | DIGITAL STUDIES | HEALTH & SAFETY | LIGHTING & SOUND | PRODUCTION & STAGE
We are currently reviewing this course, considering replacing the two-year fast-track degree with a two-year Foundation Degree. This will be supplemented by an optional third year which will include professional placements and lead to a BA (Hons) in Theatre Production Arts. For up-to-date information please refer to Mountview’s website.
MANAGEMENT | VOCATIONAL & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Students specialise early on in their chosen field of production and stage management, lighting, sound and digital production or design and applied arts.
YEAR 2
PRODUCTION
HOW TO APPLY P.21
The second year provides numerous opportunities to develop employability skills. By working on show roles students get experience and insight into working in live theatre.
Thorough training in theatre production arts is vital to provide the industry with imaginative, professional production and stage managers, lighting, sound and digital creatives and set, prop and theatre designers. Mountview offers technical students the finest tuition in each of these specialist areas from a full-time staff who have a wide set of skills and experience in theatre, TV and film as well as freelance staff who split their time between tuition and professional practice.
Students work closely alongside a variety of industry practitioners who bring experience of relevant industry practices and provide contacts and networks for future career development.
PROFILE Andy Franks · Director of Production
Vocational and professional development modules cover CV presentation, completing application forms and cover letters, interview technique, portfolio presentation and freelance finance and taxation.
Andy trained at Mountview and later worked as Head of Construction. Immediately after graduating he worked as
Students also have presentations and Q&A sessions with organisations such as Equity, BECTU, Association of British Theatre Technicians (ABTT), Professional Lighting and Sound Association (PLASA) and Stage Management Association (SMA).
Study is through practical workshops with students also gaining experience by running the production and technical elements for undergraduate and postgraduate performances. These public performances promote theatre production arts students as reflective, flexible, independent learners with strong and transferable skills.
a scenic carpenter, then master carpenter for the Redgrave Theatre, Farnham and then as a freelance scenic carpenter in theatres across the UK. Andy has produced scenery and special effects for many European tourist attractions. Prior
There are no formal exams. Students are assessed through practical coursework and by their work on productions in the second year. Emphasis is placed upon both creative and technical ability to fully equip graduates with transferable skills in all disciplines.
Mountview has a strong reputation for the employability of its production students. The detail of training and professional attitude that our graduates possess have led them to work on stages and sets across the globe.
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to returning to Mountview as Director of Production, he was Production Manager at the Mercury Theatre, Colchester.
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DAYS OF SIGNIFICANCE by Roy Williams mountview.org.uk · @mountviewLDN
Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN THEATRE PRODUCTION ARTS 1 YEAR
This course provides experienced students with both the theoretical and practical skills to explore the many career opportunities within the technical theatre profession.
Throughout the course there are regular appraisals to examine learning methods and set objectives.
Students develop technical, creative, logistical and critical evaluation skills. In addition they experience the challenge of a fast-paced theatre production environment, working on a broad range of projects in venues across London.
TERM 1
The Diploma is a full-time one-year course running from September to August, although January entry may also be possible. The programme of study is ideal for students who wish to reinforce their skills in theatre production arts and work practically in the production of professional theatre and its associated industries.
The first term is dedicated to workshops and independent study in the student’s preferred field, be it design and applied arts, lighting and sound or production and stage management. Students work both in Mountview's production department and onsite in various theatres.
TERM 2 Study in the second term takes place through practical work experience and is about building on previous experience,
underpinning it with a deeper technical knowledge and further developing skills. Students are required to secure a relevant work placement at an agreed venue, on a specific technical project or through a freelance contract in order to broaden experience and develop vital industry contacts. Students are also required to fulfil assessed show roles in Mountview productions.
TERM 3 Students are scheduled to work on a variety of performances and projects throughout this term and assume greater levels of responsibility in the production process. The Diploma is assessed on work on productions during this term. HOW TO APPLY P.21
MOUNTVIEW STAFF SENIOR STAFF Director of Performance · Stephen Jameson | Head of Undergraduate Acting & Musical Theatre · Sally Ann Gritton | Head of Postgraduate Acting & Musical Theatre · Jacqui Somerville | Head of Theatre Directing · Peter James CBE | Head of Acting for Screen & Recorded Media · Jonathan Wolff | Head of Voice · Cath Baxter | Head of Movement · Meredith Dufton | Head of Singing and Music · Chris Nolan | Head of Dance · Lainie Baird | Director of Production · Andy Franks | Head of Design & Applied Arts · Alison Taylor | Head of Lighting, Sound & Digital Production · Kathrine Sandys RECENT GUEST PRACTITIONERS Mike Alfreds | Robert Bathurst | James Bourne | Matthew Brind | Marina Caldarone | Paul Clarkson | Lyndsey Coulson | Martin Duncan | Gareth Ellis | Roger Evans | Caroline Eves | Rebecca Frecknall | Douglas Henshall | Kit Hesketh-Harvey | Michael Howcroft | Kelly Hunter | Nick Hutchinson | Andrew Jarvis | Tom Kelly | Max Key | Russell Labey | Bernie Lafontaine | Darren Lawrence | Tim Luscombe | Steven Marmion | Stuart Morley | Deborah Paige | Elaine Paige OBE | Peter Polycarpou | James Powell | Steve Ridley | Ferdy Roberts | Adam Rowe | Simon Scardifield | Jessica Swale | Rachel Wagstaff | Abbie Wright | Richard Vincent
YERMA by Federico García Lorca
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Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
Life at Mountview
How to Apply
“I had an amazing time at Mountview – the training was tough but a lot of fun. I graduated feeling incredibly well prepared for a career in theatre.” Tyrone Huntley · Musical Theatre Graduate 2011 – The Book of Mormon (Prince of Wales Theatre), Sister Act (national tour)
Life at Mountview is engaging and inspiring. Students come to Mountview because they are passionate about performing or working in the theatre. This energy is infectious Students come from all over the world and all walks of life and this diversity is a key part of the learning experience and social scene.
Mountview is committed to offering training to people from a wide variety of backgrounds. To reflect this our admissions policy is not focused solely on academic qualifications and entry is by audition or interview. The process is designed to investigate a candidate’s current and potential abilities and their suitability for a career in the profession.
Performance
Situated in Wood Green in north London, Mountview is surrounded by many bars, restaurants and cafes and is well-placed for easy access to West End theatres and fringe venues, London’s cultural scene and nightlife. The world outside the rehearsal room undoubtedly plays as important a part in shaping students as the work within.
Auditions and interviews are open to students who will be 18 years or over (foundation and undergraduate courses) or 21 and over (postgraduate courses) at the time of course entry. Audition/interview fee: £35. Mountview’s audition fees are among the lowest nationally. Early application is advised to secure an audition. For details of application deadlines, audition dates/requirements and to apply visit mountview.org.uk/applying
Students get involved in Mountview’s community education programme and take part in extra-curricular performances including Christmas concerts and other special events as well as their own performance projects.
The audition requirements vary depending on the course. Undergraduate acting and actor musician auditions in London come as part of a full day’s experience with workshops and an introduction to life and study at Mountview. Undergraduate musical theatre auditions comprise a series of dance, singing and acting sessions. Successful first-round candidates in each area will be recalled for a second audition in front of a panel of the heads of the performance departments.
Mountview is committed to promoting equality of opportunity and providing a supportive and inclusive environment. We positively welcome applications from student from all backgrounds. Our students receive membership of the Student Union which is affiliated to the NUS and provides access to a wide range of services and discounts.
UK AUDITIONS Mountview holds first round auditions in cities across the UK including Cardiff, Manchester, Norwich and Glasgow. Please visit mountview.org.uk/applying for dates and locations.
Students’ welfare and happiness are of prime importance and great emphasis is placed on pastoral care and physical health.
Production UNDERGRADUATE
During induction students attend seminars on issues including nutrition and personal health and are introduced to the student counselling service. This provides a free and confidential service from an accredited member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.
Applications for BA in Theatre Production Arts MUST be made online via the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) ucas.ac.uk UCAS DETAILS (BA IN THEATRE ARTS PRODUCTION ONLY): UCAS, ROSEHILL, NEW BARN LANE, CHELTENHAM GL52 3LZ - 01242 227 788 INSTITUTION APPLICATION CODE: M95 INSTITUTION CODE NAME: MOUNT COURSE CODE: W440 BA/TT
Students are assigned a personal tutor with whom they can meet regularly to discuss their personal, academic and career development.
Applications for this course should be made by 15 January for entry the following September. We cannot guarantee an interview for applications received after this date.
With just under 400 full-time students across a range of foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate courses Mountview is a supportive, nurturing and fulfilling environment.
POSTGRADUATE
To apply, visit mountview.org.uk/applying
SPEND, SPEND, SPEND by Steve Brown | Justin Greene
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Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
DISCLAIMER
Admission Requirements
This prospectus is a guide to Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts and its courses. It does not constitute a contract between Mountview and its students. Mountview reserves the right to make reasonable changes to its courses, their structure and content, teaching staff and facilities. In the unlikely event that a force majeure results in Mountview having to close no compensation or return of fees is payable.
Students wishing to apply for the Actor Musician BA must have a high level of performance skill although formal music exams are not essential. Entry for one-year or postgraduate courses is determined through audition or interview. A first or second class degree is normally required for MA study, although consideration is given to those with significant practical experience but without formal qualifications.
Mountview recognises that talent cannot always be measured by conventional academic achievement and welcomes applications from people without standard entry qualifications. However, one of the following is desirable for BA (Hons) and Diploma courses: · FIVE GCSE PASSES AND TWO A-LEVELS
Musical Direction candidates must have a very high standard of piano playing.
· FOUR SCE HIGHER GRADE PASSES · BTEC NATIONAL/HIGHER NATIONAL CERTIFICATE/DIPLOMA WITH MERIT
For details of Mountview’s current course fees please visit mountview.org.uk/applying
· FOUNDATION COURSE
Certain courses are subject to external academic accreditation and these courses are provided on the assumption that this accreditation will continue. Mountview has taken every effort to ensure that photography in this prospectus is correctly credited.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Photography Carlos Conway · John Hunter · Bridget Jones · Gemma Mount · Robin Savage · Jamie Scott-Smith · Samantha Turk · Robert Workman · Design Danila Lalli · Print Belmont Press @2013 Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts Registered Charity No: 274166 · Incorporated in England No: 1019858 Registered Office: Kingfisher Place, Clarendon Road, London N22 6XF
Fees and Funding
See more at mountview.org.uk PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER
Funding
Dance and Drama Awards
We understand that securing funding can be difficult. Our Head of Registry Services can offer advice on the various paths available. Please email: admissions@mountview.org.uk Students wishing to apply for a Dance and Drama Award will need to complete a form outlining their and their parents' / guardians’ financial details.
Dance and Drama Awards (also known as DaDAs) are scholarships funded by the Education Funding Agency offering income-assessed support for course fees and living expenses. Only students taking an approved Trinity College London Diploma are eligible to apply for a DaDA. Students completing a Diploma are, subject to assessment and the payment of the appropriate fee, eligible to complete a BA (Hons) in Performance.
These awards are given to students thought most likely to succeed in the profession and are means-tested.
For further information about the awards and eligibility, visit the DaDA website gov.uk/dance-drama-awards
Student Loans
Scholarships
Undergraduate students studying for a BA degree at Mountview are eligible to apply to the Student Loan Company for support. Full-time students can apply for a tuition fee loan towards tuition fees and a maintenance loan to help with living costs. However please note the student loan does not cover the whole tuition fee.
Mountview students are able to apply for a number of scholarships during their time of study. For more information about funding, loans and scholarships please visit mountview.org.uk/applying
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