Drama
5 Mary Street (PO Box 534) Drummoyne NSW 1470 Sydney, Australia Tel: 61 2 9819 8888 Fax: 61 2 9719 1714 Email: info@wi.edu.au Web: www.wi.edu.au CRICOS Code 02664K ABN 50 360 319 774
Š Wesley Institute 2012 Wesley Institute is a registered Higher Education Provider under the NSW Higher Education Act and the Commonwealth Higher Education Support Act, and approved to provide courses to international students. The Institute offers Masters in Counselling, Education, Leadership and Ethics, Music, and Theology; Graduate Diplomas in Counselling, Education, and Theology; Bachelors in Dance, Drama, Graphic Design, Music and Theology; Associate Degrees in Dance, Graphic Design, Music and Theology; and a Diploma in Drama. Courses are accredited with the NSW Department of Education and Training, and approved for FEE-HELP, Youth Allowance, Austudy and Abstudy for eligible students.+ Wesley Institute is an International Affiliate of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, and offers a studies abroad program for the 110 member universities and colleges in the USA. All information in this publication is correct at 25 February 2013 but is subject to change without notice. Wesley Institute reserves the right to change the content of any unit of study, or to withdraw any unit or course of study it offers, or to impose limitations on enrolment in any unit or course of study.
Austudy and Youth Allowance are not available for the Master of Music.
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Contents Introduction ............................................................................................ 4 Industry Compatibility .................................................................... 5 Progressive Development ............................................................... 6 Hollywood Placement .................................................................... 6 Pathways to Teaching .................................................................... 6 Bachelor of Dramatic Art ......................................................................... 8 Diploma of Dramatic Art ......................................................................... 9 Performance Major....................................................................... 10 Production Major .......................................................................... 11 Theatre Practice Major ..................................................................12 Drama Electives .............................................................................13 Admission ...............................................................................................13 Educational Requirements ..............................................................13 Artistic Requirements .....................................................................14 Credit .....................................................................................................15 Assessment ..............................................................................................16 Further Study ..........................................................................................16 Tuition Assurance ...................................................................................16 Unit Descriptions ....................................................................................17 Academic Staff ........................................................................................21 Fees ....................................................................................................... 22
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Introduction Wesley Institute promotes and fosters quality in teaching and learning through the implementation of our vision, mission and institutional values, and their integration in all aspects of institutional life and culture. Vision: Transforming lives through excellence in Christian higher education. Mission: Wesley Institute benefits our community as we equip people to live godly lives in influential vocations. We seek to fulfil this mission by integrating rigorous scholarship, and professional and spiritual development, in excellent higher education. Values: All our activities are informed and underpinned by five core values: - Christian faith in action - Education informed by scholarship and creativity - Lifelong learning - Responsible stewardship - Integration. In actively pursuing our mission, Wesley Institute commits to the following: • courses and learning resources of high quality and standing, as determined by regulatory authorities, expert advisors, staff and students. • curriculum and modes of delivery structured so as to maximise student access to learning opportunities and support without compromising quality or equity. • a nurturing and safe teaching and learning environment for staff and students grounded in Christian faith and academic integrity. • a focus on the achievement of our graduate attributes, student satisfaction, course completions and career relevance. Wesley Institute is one of only three Australian institutions to offer the prestigious Bachelor of Dramatic Art. This degree provides an extensive introduction to all the major aspects of theatre. The course offers three strands of specialisation: performance, production and theatre practice. Each strand is skill-oriented, emphasising rigorous training in the areas appropriate to the specialisation being pursued. Each curriculum is specifically designed to provide the skills, experiences, opportunities, and professional expertise necessary for a career in theatre. There are a number of specialist units available, as well as a wide range of electives, including a Hollywood placement (see below). Operating within the context of the Christian community, the course includes an integrative studies stream designed to enhance integration between the creative arts, faith and artistic endeavour. The Bachelor of Dramatic Art features a blend of theoretical and practical learning. In the more practical classes, students gain skills and experience, reflect, analyse and draw theoretical conclusions, and then test and refine those conclusions in further practical 4
work. In the more theoretical areas, such as history, students are directed into selfstudy, careful documentation and research, and presentation of their research in class. The Institute environment features an emphasis on collaboration and teamwork. The course is flexible enough to allow changes of emphasis according to the needs of a particular group or individual, and the context is always that of theatre-making. Exiting the degree course after completing the first two years study load entitles a student to the award of Diploma. The School of Drama at Wesley Institute is a centre of excellence in training that provides performing arts tuition of the highest calibre in accordance with industry standards. The Bachelor of Dramatic Art is offered on the Drummoyne campus in facilities that provide for every aspect of training, production and performance. With a theatre, studios, classrooms, wardrobe, dressing rooms, and technical equipment for lighting, sound, video editing and recording, the School of Drama offers you the opportunity for competence in all aspects of stagecraft. As a drama student you would be expected to be an active participant within a variety of structured learning processes. Classes become learning communities that encourage you to develop into a self-directed, self-motivated learner. You will apply the theories presented in lectures to your workshops and practical classes, and consolidate the technical skills you learn in classes through regular performance opportunities of many kinds. Your achievements will be assessed using a variety of educational tasks like essays, presentations, reflections, performances, quizzes, reviews, critiques, production tasks, analyses and projects. And, of course, the Gordon Moyes Library will give you access to extensive specialist print collections, online databases and audiovisual facilities, as well as computing labs with free internet access.
Industry Compatibility Competition for employment within the professional performing arts environment is exceptionally fierce. In order to ensure optimal success for graduates entering the professional arena, the School of Drama annually reviews the student’s industry compatibility. Performance and Production majors complete studies on an invitation basis, dependent on grades accrued over the course of the year. In cases where a student’s grades fall below the minimum requirement the student may be offered a position in the generalist stream – the Theatre Practice major. This prepares students for the realities of the industry, and assists them to find suitable arts-related vocations compatible with their skills.
Specialist Strands: Grades PERFORMANCE MAJOR At the end of the first year it is anticipated Performance majors will attain a minimum of a credit grade in each of the core vocational studies of Acting, Movement and Voice. By the end of the second year it is anticipated that students will attain a credit plus average in these same units. Where there is an inconsistency between the grades for these three areas, the Performance Practice units will also be considered.
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PRODUCTION MAJOR At the end of the first year it is anticipated Production majors will attain a minimum of a credit in each of the core vocational studies of Introduction to Production, Introduction to Drama, and Studio I and II. By the end of the second year it is anticipated students will attain a credit plus average in the core production units of Stage Management, Lighting Design and Operation, Sound Design and Operation, Video Production, and Theatre Management. Where there is an inconsistency between the grades for these areas, the Production Practice units will also be considered.
Progressive Development Learning in the creative arts is sequential in nature. Students are therefore required to both attend and participate in classes as preparation for assessments. If students are noticeably absent or unable to participate in a significant number of sessions, they will lack technical skill and/or information required to progress throughout the course. Due to the high level of demand placed on an artist, and the inherent stressors associated with performance-related disciplines, it is important that schools maintain the core values of the profession, thus equipping and preparing both the individual and the ensemble for the professional arena. Students who are not able to maintain a reasonable level of participation may need to defer study until their personal situation has changed, and no longer prevents them from effective participation. This is particularly the case where a student is repeatedly absent or requesting extensions due to physical or mental illness.
Hollywood Placement We are excited to offer, as a part of your degree, a world-class industry experience, in Hollywood, Los Angeles! Go to LA, the acting capital of the world, and study amongst people who have excelled in the industry. Gain firsthand experience as you work on your craft five days a week, in an intense and concentrated environment, sharpening your commitment, passion and suitability for life as an actor. Endorsed by five-time Oscar winner Sydney Pollack, the LA program is second to none. You’ll develop skills in script analysis and cold reads, learn all about the business side of Hollywood, and meet agents, directors and producers as part of your studies. The program includes: 10 weeks intensive training in The Acting Corps technique© The “Business of the Business” tutorials Airfare and accommodation for up to three months Exclusive meetings, industry conferences and networking opportunities Studio tours, attendance at theatrical productions and more. FEE-HELP is available for eligible students in the Bachelor of Dramatic Art. If you want to grasp a once in a lifetime opportunity to study under international industry leaders, then this unique program is for you. 6
Pathways to Teaching If teaching is your career of choice, you can add Wesley Institute’s two-year Master of Teaching (Primary) or one-year Graduate Diploma of Education (Secondary) to your Bachelor of Dramatic Art to qualify as a teacher in Australian primary or secondary schools. These postgraduate degrees are delivered online, with supervised teaching placements in local schools for maximum convenience. If secondary Drama teaching is your goal, you can use your bachelor electives to study a second teaching area (e.g. Music, Dance, English). With two teaching methods, you would be very well placed to find employment as a secondary teacher.
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Bachelor of Dramatic Art • • • • • •
Course Code: WDR11 Credit Points: 144 Number of Units: 40-41 Duration: 3 years full-time; up to 6 years part-time Student Workload: 40 hours per week (full-time) Delivery Mode: On campus studies
The Bachelor of Dramatic Art is a specialised degree with three strands leading to a range of employment outcomes. It offers a theatre arts education in a dynamic creative arts environment, complementing and being enriched by on-campus endeavours in music, dance and graphic design degrees, and undergirded by Christian values and worldview.
Performance Major Graduates of the degree with a performance major should demonstrate consistent competence and confidence in all aspects of stagecraft. Their acting will normally display considerable expressive and interpretive skills and an intelligent creativity. They will have developed an appreciation of major theatrical genres, and a high degree of professionalism in their own practice. The course prepares actors to compete in the highly rigorous theatre industry. Acting, voice and movement skills are developed throughout the degree, with students engaging with the theory and practice of these and other elements of the theatrical arts. Students gradually increase their understanding and practical experience of these elements, develop connections, and create new synergies as they gain skills and experience on-stage and on-camera. In addition, students gain the confidence and expertise needed to generate their own work and to work successfully within a theatre company. Of course the other popular career path is into teaching drama
Production Major Graduates of the degree with a production major should demonstrate consistent competence and confidence in all aspects of production, and skills of a high calibre in one area of specialisation. Their work will normally be characterised by such qualities as technical proficiency, independent creativity and an experiential understanding of performance. They will have developed an appreciation of major theatrical genres, and a high degree of professionalism in their own practice. The theatre, film and television industries offer opportunities for skilled practitioners to be employed in a variety of ways, e.g. as stage managers, production managers, directors, technical directors, writers and educators. In addition, new opportunities are opening up within the Christian community for creative ministers, festival producers, and church drama directors. The production degree provides an intellectual and artistic foundation for professional careers in these areas. Students receive extensive practical and theoretical training in many aspects of theatre 8
production and direction with a major focus in one area of specialisation, together with regular production opportunities.
Theatre Practice Major Graduates of the degree with a theatre practice major should demonstrate competence and confidence in both acting and theatre production. They will have developed an appreciation of major theatrical genres, and a high degree of professionalism in their own practice. Graduates of the degree with the theatre practice major would be well positioned to take up a variety of support roles in the theatre. Skills in both performance and production would enable graduates to initiate and run a small theatre company, thus generating their own work. Graduates would also be well positioned to run drama ministry groups and productions within their churches. It is also the ideal preparation for a career in teaching.
Diploma of Dramatic Art
(nested within Bachelor of Dramatic Art) • • • • • •
Course Code: WDR01 Credit Points: 96 Number of Units: 30 Duration: 2 years full-time; up to 4 years part-time Student Workload: 40 hours per week (full-time) Delivery Mode: On campus studies
The Diploma of Dramatic Art is a higher education qualification embedded in the bachelor degree, requiring the completion of the first two years bachelor course work. The learning outcomes of the diploma course ensure that a graduate will demonstrate understanding of a broad knowledge base incorporating theoretical concepts, with substantial depth in the area of drama. Graduates will be able to apply theoretical concepts, and technical and creative skills, to a range of situations. They will have the ability to participate in development of strategic initiatives, and will be able to work cooperatively or autonomously as appropriate. They will demonstrate a welldeveloped ability to research, analyse and evaluate information, and to plan approaches to technical and management problems. Diploma graduates should demonstrate skills in both acting and theatre production. They will have developed an appreciation of major theatrical genres, and a commitment to professionalism in their own practice. They would be well positioned to take up a variety of support roles in the theatre from performance to production or to run drama ministry groups and productions within their churches. Many graduates of the Institute’s diploma have moved into related fields requiring creative or public speaking abilities.
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Performance Major BACHELOR Performance 93 cp
Theoretical Context 21 cp
Personal & Professional Development 15 cp
Production 6 cp
Performance Units (credit points [cp] in brackets) Acting I-V (3); Acting VI (6) Movement I-VI (3) Voice I-VI (3) Performance Practice A (3); B-E (6) Performance Project (9)
Elective 9 cp
BACHELOR 144 cp
Theoretical Context Units Theatre History I-IV (3) Introduction to Drama (3) Introduction to Production (3) Drama Pedagogy (3) Production Units Studio I-II (3)
Personal and Professional Development Units Faith and the Contemporary Artist I-V (3)
Elective Units Units from other drama majors or other degrees
NESTED DIPLOMA Performance 51 cp
Theoretical Context 18 cp
Personal & Professional Development 12 cp
Production 6 cp
Elective 9 cp
DIPLOMA 96 cp
A typical program for a full-time student with a PERFORMANCE MAJOR follows. Acting I Movement I Semester 1 Voice I YEAR 1
Acting II Movement II Semester 2 Voice II
Acting III Movement III Semester 1 Voice III Performance Practice A Performance Practice B YEAR 2 Acting IV Movement IV Semester 2 Voice IV Performance Practice C OPTIONAL EXIT Acting V Movement V Semester 1 Voice V Performance Practice D Performance Practice E YEAR 3 Acting VI Movement VI Semester 2 Voice VI Performance Project
Theatre History I Theatre History II Introduction to Production Theatre History III Theatre History IV Introduction to Drama Elective
Electives
Studio I
Faith and the Contemporary Artist I
Studio II
Faith and the Contemporary Artist II
Faith and the Contemporary Artist III
Faith and the Contemporary Artist IV
DIPLOMA OF DRAMATIC ART Faith and the Contemporary Artist V
Drama Pedagogy
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Production Major BACHELOR Performance 18 cp
Theoretical Context 21 cp
Personal & Professional Development 15 cp
Production 63 cp
Performance Units (credit points [cp] in brackets) Acting I-II (3) Movement I-II (3) Voice I-II (3)
Elective 27 cp
BACHELOR 144 cp
Production Units Studio I-II (3) Stage Management (3) Set Design (3) Lighting Design and Operation (3) Sound Design and Operation (3) Video Production (3) Directing I (3) Theatre Management (3) Production Practice A (3); B-E (6) Production Project (9)
Theoretical Context Units Theatre History I-IV (3) Introduction to Drama (3) Introduction to Production (3) Drama Pedagogy (3) Personal and Professional Development Units (cp) Faith and the Contemporary Artist I-V (3)
Elective Units Units from other drama majors or other degrees
NESTED DIPLOMA Performance 18 cp
Theoretical Context 18 cp
Personal & Professional Development 12 cp
Production 36 cp
Elective 12 cp
DIPLOMA 96 cp
A typical program for a full-time student with a PRODUCTION MAJOR follows. Acting I Movement I Semester 1 Voice I YEAR 1
Acting II Movement II Semester 2 Voice II
Theatre History I Theatre History II Introduction to Production Theatre History III Theatre History IV Introduction to Drama
Elective Semester 1 YEAR 2 Electives Semester 2 OPTIONAL EXIT Electives Semester 1 YEAR 3 Semester 2
Electives
Drama Pedagogy 11
Studio I
Faith and the Contemporary Artist I
Studio II
Faith and the Contemporary Artist II
Stage Management Faith and the Set Design Contemporary Artist III Lighting Design and Operation Production Practice A Production Practice B Video Production Faith and the Directing I Contemporary Artist IV Production Practice C DIPLOMA OF DRAMATIC ART Sound Design and Faith and the Operation Contemporary Artist V Production Practice D Production Practice E Theatre Management Production Project
Theatre Practice Major BACHELOR Performance 21-48 cp
Theoretical Context 21 cp
Production 30-57 cp
Personal & Professional Development 15 cp
Elective 30 cp
BACHELOR 144 cp
Performance Units (credit points [cp] in brackets) Acting I-III (3) Movement I-II (3) Voice I-II (3) Performance Practice A (3); B-E (6)
Theoretical Context Units Theatre History I-IV (3) Introduction to Drama (3) Introduction to Production (3) Drama Pedagogy (3)
Production Units Studio I-II (3) Stage Management (3) Video Production (3) Directing I (3) Script Writing (3) Theatre Management (3) Production Practice A (3); B-E (6) Theatre Project (9)
Personal and Professional Development Units Faith and the Contemporary Artist I-V (3) Elective Units Two units from the design group, plus units from other majors or other Institute degrees
NESTED DIPLOMA Performance 21-36 cp
Theoretical Context 18 cp
Production 15-30cp
Personal & Professional Development 12 cp
Elective 15 cp
DIPLOMA 96 cp
A typical program for a full-time student with a THEATRE PRACTICE MAJOR follows. Acting I Semester 1 Movement I Voice I YEAR 1 Acting II Semester 2 Movement II Voice II Acting III Semester 1 YEAR 2 Semester 2
Theatre History I Theatre History II Introduction to Production Theatre History III Theatre History IV Introduction to Drama Electives Performance/Production Practice A Performance/Production Practice B
Electives Performance/Production Practice C
OPTIONAL EXIT Electives Semester 1 Performance/Production Practice D Production/Production Practice E YEAR 3 Electives Drama Pedagogy Semester 2
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Studio I
Faith and the Contemporary Artist I
Studio II
Faith and the Contemporary Artist II
Stage Management
Faith and the Contemporary Artist III
Video Production Faith and the Directing I Contemporary Artist IV DIPLOMA OF DRAMATIC ART Script Writing Faith and the Contemporary Artist V Theatre Management Theatre Project
Drama Electives The Drama degree offers the flexibility to further tailor the studies toward individual interest and skills. Students may choose units from another specialist strand to complement their core units, and so develop a pathway that leads to a desired outcome. Students can also select units from any of the Institute’s other Bachelor degrees. The following Drama electives are regularly offered: Industry Placement (the Hollywood placement is a regular option) Acting Shakespeare Directing II Theatre Internship Theatre Secondment Lighting Design and Operation Sound Design and Operation Set Design Costume Design.
Admission The annual course intake is in February. Application closing dates are published on the website (http://www.wi.edu.au/how-to-apply). Applicants are encouraged to apply early as places are limited. Wesley Institute is committed to ethical and responsible student recruitment. The application process requires the submission of documents verifying that the student has met the entry requirements for the course. Each applicant is auditioned and interviewed by a panel comprising members of the drama faculty, using standard assessment processes and forms. As well as satisfying the educational and artistic entry requirements listed below, applicants also need to satisfy an interview panel that they have the personal qualities of maturity and motivation necessary for success in tertiary studies. The panel’s recommendation is reviewed and approved by the Admissions Committee.
Educational Requirements An applicant will be considered for admission under any of the following categories: A. Matriculation. Successful completion of the NSW Higher School Certificate or equivalent. B. Other tertiary studies. Successful completion of an accredited tertiary course. C. Adult entry. An applicant of 21 years or over who has satisfied the artistic entry requirements may be admitted with provisional status if the Admissions Committee determines that such applicant has attained a standard of education and experience adequate for entry to the course and has the aptitude required for undertaking the course. Provisional status will normally be converted to full candidature on successful completion of one semester of full-time studies.
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D. International applicants. In addition to satisfying the education requirements above, applicants whose qualifying studies were completed in a language other than English will be required to demonstrate English proficiency equivalent to the overall minimum score of 6.0 in the IELTS Academic test. Test score equivalencies for alternative tests are provided below. IELTS SCORE Band
6.0
6.5
7.0
7.5
8.0
Test of English as a Foreign Language internet based Test (TOEFL iBT)
60
79
94
102
110
PTE Academic
50
58
65
73
79
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) from Cambridge ESOL test scores
52
58
67
74
80
Artistic Requirements Applicants are expected to have some drama and theatre experience in school, church, community theatre or workshops. Acceptance is by interview and audition. The interview gives applicants opportunity to discuss past performance and/or production experience. The audition determines current and potential acting ability. Assessment criteria for auditions are as follows: A. Evidence of prior training and/or experience in one or more forms of dramatic expression. B. Demonstrated ability or recognisable potential of performance candidates to communicate by voice, movement and empathic identification with another. C. Evidence of self-motivation, artistic creativity, self-discipline and an enquiring mind. D. Demonstration of willingness to be trained and disciplined as a theatre artist.
AUDITIONS The audition for the 2013 intake will be made up of several elements, as follows.
Performance Major Performance of two contrasting 2-3 minute monologues showing understanding of characterisation, movement and vocal techniques, and staging. The applicant may be asked to perform the excerpt in different ways to ascertain flexibility and capacity to take direction. An improvisation exercise.
Production Major An improvisation exercise. Presentation of a portfolio of work in one or more of the production areas (set design, lighting design, sound design, costume design, directing, etc). Applicants who do not have a portfolio of previous work are asked to create and present a design in any of the production areas for Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. 14
Theatre Practice Major One 2-3 minute monologue memorised and performed, showing understanding of characterisation, movement and vocal techniques, and staging. The applicant may be asked to perform the excerpt in different ways to ascertain flexibility and capacity to take direction. An improvisation exercise. Presentation of a portfolio or other documentation of production work (set design, lighting design, sound design, costume design, directing, etc). Applicants who do not have a portfolio of previous work are asked to create and present a design in any of the production areas for Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Monologues must be fully memorised and chosen from published plays. They should show the applicant’s ability and present characters relatively close to the applicant’s own age. Performance applicants should choose contrasting pieces, for example a comedy and a drama, or a Shakespearean piece and a modern work. Material taken from films or television, or material written by the applicant, should not be used for the audition. International or interstate students may submit an audition DVD accompanied by a written description of previous dramatic experience. Scholarship auditions are held on campus, and cannot be presented by video. For any questions about the audition, please contact: Phone (02) 9819 8888 Email: info@wi.edu.au
Credit Wesley Institute is committed to the dual principles of maintaining high academic standards that are at least equivalent to those current in Australian universities, and providing the shortest possible pathways to the desired award by the recognition of prior learning wherever this is consistent with these standards. Students accepted into the Bachelor or Diploma of Dramatic Art may apply for credit transfer on the basis of equivalent studies completed prior to their admission. Studies undertaken at registered tertiary institutions may be considered for transfer credit where they have reasonable correspondence to coursework units in the Institute’s courses. Students may also apply for RPL credit on the basis of skills and knowledge achieved outside the formal education and training system. The following standards are consulted in the assessment of any prior learning, as appropriate: a. The AQF National Principles and Operational Guidelines for Recognition of Prior Learning. b. The AQF National Guidelines on Cross-Sectoral Qualification Linkages. c.
The Universities Australia Policy Guidelines on Cross-Sector Qualification Linkages. 15
Credit and RPL credit for previous study may be awarded up to a maximum of one third of the course requirements, or 48 credit points in the bachelor degree and 32 credit points in the diploma. Applicants who are currently enrolled in an equivalent bachelor degree course with a peer provider and wish to finish their studies for the degree qualification at Wesley Institute may be considered for credit of up to two thirds of the Bachelor of Dramatic Art requirements, or the equivalent of the first two years course load (96 credit points). Similarly, those currently enrolled in an equivalent diploma in drama wishing to transfer to Wesley Institute to finish their studies for the diploma qualification may be considered for credit of up to two thirds of the course requirements (64 credit points).
Assessment Units are assessed on the basis of varied tasks presented during the semester. Generally there would be three assessment tasks for each unit, which may include performances, productions and examinations. Units are graded according to a standard higher education grading scale published in the Student Handbook and in each course unit outline. In all units, students must complete and submit all assessment tasks to achieve a passing grade. In some units the passing of critical assessment tasks is an additional qualifier to a passing grade.
Further Study Graduates of the Bachelor of Dramatic Art may expect to be admitted to a masters course in theatre studies or related discipline in a university. Those wishing to pursue primary school teaching will need to complete the two-year Master of Teaching (Primary). Preparation for secondary drama teaching requires the addition of the oneyear Graduate Diploma of Education (Secondary) with a drama teaching method. Those considering secondary teaching can also pursue a second teaching method at Wesley Institute, increasing their employment options. Both the teaching qualifications are offered online for maximum convenience.
Tuition Assurance To protect students in the event that Wesley Institute ceases to provide a course of study, the Institute has tuition assurance through its membership of the Australian Council for Private Education and Training (ACPET) Tuition Assurance Schemes for Australian and international students. For details please see Tuition Assurance.
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Unit Descriptions Acting I-VI
DRBA101-306
Acting Shakespeare
DRBA243
Costume Design
DRBA358
Directing I
DRBA254
Directing II
DRBA355
Drama Pedagogy
DRBA353
Faith and the Contemporary Artist I-V
INBE101-305
3 or 6 credit points
This series of units introduces students to a range of acting approaches and techniques which students put into practice in acting classes and Institute productions. The initial focus is upon freeing and developing the students’ imaginations and liberating their senses through observation and improvisation. Students are taught to work together as an ensemble. Later studies focus on theatrical text as revelation of character and situation, and explore various styles of performance including realistic, expressionistic, epic and acting for camera. Acting I-VI acts as the spine of the core drama subjects 3 credit points
This unit aims to provide students with a broad base of knowledge and skills in Shakespearean acting methodology. Students will explore several Shakespearean texts in various genres with regard to both historical and modern performance practices. The unit culminates with an ensemble performance of a portion of one of the works of Shakespeare. 3 credit points
An historical overview covers the relationship between period costume and theatrical costume. Students gain an understanding of costume, wigs, and make-up as a vital contribution to the transformation of an actor into a character in time and place. Practical and design considerations are explored and related to current shows. 3 credit points
This unit combines theory with practical work. An historical overview of the rise of the director introduces students to the specific functions of the theatre director. Students then learn to approach a text from a directorial point of view. They are instructed in the detailed analysis of text, the development of a directorial concept, the liaison with designers and production personnel, and various approaches to rehearsal. In Directing I students direct monologues and scenes from plays. 6 credit points
In Directing II each student will act as assistant director for a substantial public performance. 3 credit points
This unit is both theoretical and practical. It begins with an historical overview of the use and power of drama as an educative medium. Students explore Theatre in Education, Creative Dramatics, Forum Theatre techniques, and Drama Therapy. Consideration is given to Drama in the Curriculum, with particular reference to the Yr 7-12 Drama Syllabus. The practical component teaches students to design, run and analyse various kinds of workshops. 3 credit points
The integrated curriculum in this sequence of units is designed to facilitate an intellectual and spiritual journey for students. It commences with a foundational unit assisting students in their transition into higher education with its foundations of integrity and Christian values. An overview of the New and Old Testament Scriptures 17
provides a platform for understanding the Christian faith, and students will consider a variety of issues including the dialogue between theology and creativity, and between the arts and cultural studies.
Industry Placement
DRBA271
Introduction to Drama
DRBA152
Introduction to Production
DRBA152
Lighting Design and Operation
DRBA261
Movement I-VI
DRBA121-326
12 credit points
Industry Placement provides students with the opportunity to consolidate skills and knowledge gained in previous degree studies through extended participation in a professional practice setting. It also assists students to develop industry contacts and networks, hence opening potential employment pathways into the performing arts industry. Placements typically entail working with an established production company or recognised industry practitioner, or participation in a supervised industry-based program of research specific to creative and/or performing arts vocations. The Acting Core Industry Placement in Hollywood* is a regular option. Industry Placement promotes lifelong learning through “real world� applications, and critical thinking is central to learning outcomes. It is only open to students demonstrating serious intent with respect to their participation in the unit. Such intent will be ascertained in the context of a rigorous selection process. 3 credit points
Students learn the distinctive features of Drama as an artistic medium. They learn to explore plays as blueprints for a performance event. They develop analytical skills that enable them to discern information concerning aspects of characterisation, dramatic action, appropriate staging and relationship to an audience. Studio practices form an important part of this unit. The unit also includes the critique of professional productions and the staging of an excerpt from a play. 3 credit points
Students gain a basic understanding of the internal structure and administration of a professional theatre company. They learn about the specific functions of key members of a production team, including the artistic director, production manager, technical director, stage manager, set, lighting and costume designers, house manager and publicity manager. Students will also participate in a program of studio practices and simulation exercises. 3 credit points
A study of the fundamentals of lighting design from concept to production. Class work includes both theory and practical projects. Students are required to complete a lighting design for one of the Institute productions which may be drawn from the schools of dance, drama or music. 3 credit points
This series of units aims to liberate the student actor into confident access to an extensive physical vocabulary of posture, gesture and movement. Units explore movement from the perspective of the actor as revelation of motivated characters in action and space. Initial units cover Laban, Chekhov, neutral and character masks, while the advanced units introduce students to the heightened and specialised physical demands of Suzuki and Commedia Del Arte. * The tuition fee for this unit includes travel expenses and accommodation. Eligible students may have access to FEE-HELP for the tuition costs of this unit of study, but FEE-HELP is not available for incidental costs, e.g. travel insurance, visa costs, travel to and from Sydney airport.
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Performance Practice A-E
DRBA238-342
Performance Project
DRBA373
Production Practice A-E
DRBA29-394
Production Project
DRBA372
Script Writing
DRBA383
Set Design
DRBA260
Sound Design and Operation
DRBA262
3 or 6 credit points
Performance Practice represents the performance output of Acting III-V, Voice III-V and Movement III-V. Students workshop, rehearse, promote and perform works from the theatre canon or self-devised works. Particular attention is given to the links between the skills areas and students’ development as complete performers. Emphasis falls on the need to develop a depth and breadth of understanding of performance. 9 credit points
Students will perform a major work in their final semester at graduation level. The purpose is to fully integrate and implement the skills that have been learned during the preceding five semesters and consolidate individual performance process under the supervision of a professional director. Performance Project also provides a platform for industry exposure through networking with invited industry representatives. 3 or 6 credit points
This represents the practical application of skills developed in the range of production classes. Students take on a key production role for a performance, working with the performance students and director. This role can be in stage management, lighting, sound, set or costumes. Students who have completed Stage Management must do practical stage management in one of the Production Practice units. 9 credit points
In their final semester students will complete a major project, specialising in one area of production. The purpose is to fully integrate and implement the skills that have been learned during the preceding five semesters and consolidate individual production process under the supervision of theatre professionals. Production Project also provides a platform for industry exposure through networking with invited industry representatives. 3 credit points
This unit introduces students to the dynamics and major elements of successfully scripting playable dramatic action. Subjects include characterisation, action, dialogue, sub-text, genre and style, structure and scene construction, and audience-stage relationships. Students acquire skills in analysis and critique of contemporary texts, and develop, through writing exercises, the ability to express their own ideas in dramatic form. 3 credit points
An historical overview covers the development of theatre stages and the study of significant productions in the evolution of set design. Students learn the component parts of creating a stage environment that heightens the impact of the performance. They will explore development of the concept, fundamentals of design, and communication through plans and model making. 3 credit points
A study of the fundamentals of sound design from concept to production. Class work includes both theory and practical projects. Students are required to complete a sound design for one of the Institute productions which may be drawn from the schools of dance, drama or music. 19
Stage Management
DRBA257
Studio I-II
DRBA147-148
Theatre History I-IV
DRBA131-234
Theatre Internship
DRBA393
Theatre Management
DRBA359
Theatre Project
DRBA374
3 credit points
Students learn the various and vital contributions a stage manager brings to the production team. These include an understanding of audition procedures, preparation of rehearsal schedules, creation of the Prompt Book, delegation of responsibilities to assistants, and procedures for running each performance. After completing Stage Management students must do practical stage management in one of the Production Practice units. 3 credit points
These practical units enable students to gain understanding and experience of theatre etiquette and expectations, and of many production processes, including aspects of set construction, scenic painting, property construction, costume creation, light and sound operations. Studio also gives students a sound knowledge of the elements of staging and their practical applications. 3 credit points
The Theatre History strand explores the conventions of and influences on theatre through various periods. The cycle of units commences with Origins of Drama and carries through to the 18th Century and Modern Theatre. Two units focus on the development of theatre in light of physical presentation, technological advancement, cultural traditions and performance techniques, whilst a further two units focus on textual analysis. Specific consideration is given to performance style, the traditional performance space, and dramaturgical considerations. 6 credit points
Students may undertake work on a production that involves greater depth of involvement than is generally realised in a production subject or production practice. This unit demands the choice of a specific role, e.g. Stage Manager or Assistant Director, and completion of this role on a major production within the Institute or externally. It will usually be undertaken in collaboration with an industry professional such as guest director, and the nature of the internship must be negotiated with the Head of School and the relevant staff member. Students are specifically supported to utilise the Theatre Internship for Drama Ministry. 3 credit points
This unit focuses on the specific roles and functions of key administrative and artistic personnel in a professional theatre company. These include: producer, artistic director, administrator, business manager, literary manager/dramaturge, marketing, public relations and development, and voice consultant. Students are encouraged to consider possible career options in these areas, and they explore the necessity and possibility of further specialist training. 9 credit points
Theatre Practice students will create a major theatre arts related project in their final semester, drawing on and combining areas from their three years of study. It is envisaged that this could be realised in any of a number of mediums and will incorporate a significant body of practical and theoretical work. It may include aspects of writing, directing, performance and production. Details of the project will be formulated in consultation with the supervising staff member. 20
Theatre Secondment
DRBA394
Video Production
DRBA235
Voice I-VI
DRBA111-315
6 credit points
Further professional experience in a specific theatre industry role may be gathered by taking on a secondment to a professional production or event. This can be as broad as the opportunity allows, subject to approval and negotiation with the targeted company. Secondments must be undertaken with serious intent and selectivity and, on occasions, provide excellent pathways into the industry. 3 credit points
Digital video is a rapidly expanding new area which offers possibilities for specialisation in a number of areas, including filming, editing and production, sound and story boarding. This unit gives students an overview of video techniques, particularly those of filming, story boarding and editing. Students will gain insights into and experience in the processes and ideas involved in film and video production. 3 credit points
This practical series of units is designed to equip students with the full range of vocal skills and techniques needed for dramatic performance. Exercises are given to free the natural voice and grant students access to vocal support, resonance, muscularity and articulation. Students explore the effects upon the voice of space, performance dynamics, and the presence of the audience and of other performers. They learn to perform a range of texts with varying, and increasingly difficult, vocal and interpretive demands. Students also study dialect and the vocal aspects of characterisation.
Academic Staff Dr Herman Pretorius BA, BA(Hons)CreatWrit&Lit, STD, BA(Hons)Drama, MADrama, PhD Head Ms Jo Kenny BATheatrePerf Drama Coordinator Ms Donna Abela BAVisArts, BACommun, MATheatreStudies Mr Ben Anshaw BADesignforTheatre&TV Ms Kylie Bonaccorso DipArts, BA, GradDipEd Mr Robert Carne BATheatreStud, CertIVTAA Mr George Casti BAFilm&TheatreStud, DCA current Ms Kate Gaul BA, GradDipDirecting NIDA Ms Fiona Gentle-Snow DipFinArts, CertTheatreArts, CertPhysicalTheatre, MACreatArtsTherapy Mr Anthony Grgas BDA(Acting)NIDA, DipVoice, CertEd, CertIVTAA Ms Katherine Hopwood-Poulsen BATheatrePerf, GradDipVoice, CertVerseSpeak, ACTLSpeech&Drama Ms Wendy James BFineArts, DipEd, CertCouns Ms Hailey McQueen BCA(DramaPerf), GradDipEd Ms Elizabeth Rogers BCADramaProd Mr Phil Snow BA, CertIVA&WT 21
2013 Fees Tuition Fees Domestic*
Overseas**
$42,570.00
$51,408.00
$29,100.00
$34,272.00
Bachelor of Dramatic Art Course Fee^ Diploma of Dramatic Art Course Fee^
Administration Fees $150 $100 $50 $30 $30 $120 $0 - $200 $50 $50 $150 $100+ $200+
Graduation Fee Late Enrolment Fine Late Variation to Enrolment Fine Student ID Card Replacement Request for Transcript (plus postage costs) Request for Replacement Testamur Deferred Payment Contract Fee Late fee for missing an agreed payment Re-Issue of Financial Records Fee (current year) Re-Issue of Financial Records Fee (previous years) Course Withdrawal Fee (up to start of classes) Course Withdrawal Fee (after classes commence)
*Domestic Student: A student who is an Australian citizen, a New Zealand citizen, or the holder of a permanent humanitarian visa. **Overseas Student: Any student who is not a domestic student. ^Fees for units taken in any other School are published in the Course Information Book for that School, and at Tuition Fees. Fees are subject to annual review and increase. +
New students only
++
Credit points
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2013 Courses Master of Arts (Leadership and Applied Ethics) Master of Arts (Religious Education) Master of Counselling Master of Music Master of Teaching (Primary) i Graduate Diploma of Arts (Applied Ethics) Graduate Diploma of Arts (Leadership) Graduate Diploma of Arts (Religious Education) Graduate Diploma of Counselling Graduate Diploma of Education (Secondary)
Graduate Certificate in Arts (Leadership and Applied Ethics) Graduate Certificate in Arts (Religious Education)
Bachelor of Dance Bachelor of Dramatic Art Bachelor of Graphic Design Bachelor of Music
Associate Degree of Dance Associate Degree of Graphic Design Associate Degree of Music
Diploma of Dramatic Art
Š February 2013 Wesley Institute
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