Bachelor of Arts (Hons)

PERFORMING ARTS (FILM TV AND STAGE)

This exciting interdisciplinary degree programme fuses theatre, film, television and audio media placing the performer at the heart of the creative process. So, if you're a self-motivated and enthusiastic performer, this course could be the perfect path for you.

During your time on this course you'll develop a broad understanding of the latest developments and discussions in the industry, and a wide range of performance skills. You’ll have the opportunity to write, create and perform productions that demonstrate just how varied and creative performing can be.



Why study this subject?

In this course you will learn that there are many ways to be a performer. You’ll be comfortable as a creative performer, as a film maker and as a motivated team player able to think about the world around them. You’ll become a thinking practitioner with a passion for all that the performing arts can be and a wide range of skills to achieve it.

Why study at Buckinghamshire New University?

The mix of screen and stage work is what makes this course stand out. BNU will give you hands-on experience with the latest technology allowing you to explore the full range of screen, audio and intermedial possibilities. Their team of experienced academic-practitioners has a wealth of industry and academic experience and will nurture your learning and professional development throughout your time with BNU. BNU place performance making at the centre of this course so you'll get a much better understanding of the practices that surround film, stage and television performances.

What will you study?

Each year includes skills, production and theory modules, enabling you to gain knowledge and confidence with the practical and theoretical elements that underpin the subject area. Once you master the core elements of performing, you’ll begin to look at unusual and experimental approaches to performance. You’ll increasingly find your own voice as you have the opportunity to study subjects such as devising, writing and directing.

How will you be taught and assessed?

BNU is passionate about giving their students as many opportunities as possible so you’ll be able to work on a number of exciting projects. They know the importance of catering for different learning styles and enabling their students to develop a wide range of academic and performance skills. Teaching methods may vary but will include workshops to develop practical and production skills, lectures, and performances (some of which are formally assessed) where you will perform to an audience or be mediated (i.e. for camera).

Throughout this degree you’ll create a series of shows, films, short scenes and devised performances. In your third year, you’ll set up your own theatre company and devise a production that you'll manage from conception through to venue booking, marketing and performance.

In the theoretical and practice as research modules, you’ll look at the various ways that performance can be conceived and consider its importance in society through conducting research into different areas that interest you.

You can choose from a number of optional modules giving you the chance to specialise in an area you're particularly drawn to. This could be directing for performance or devising and writing. You’ll also be able to learn how to work with cameras and gain invaluable knowledge of editing and filming.

Assessment is varied. BNU don't have any written exams and we encourage you to develop your own response to open briefs, giving you independence and creative control over your work. By the time you graduate, you’ll have an entrepreneurial flair and a strong grasp of the world of performing arts. You’ll be able to position yourself confidently as an inspiring and creative practitioner that people will want to work with.

What facilities can you use?

You’ll use BNU's drama studios on site, some with moving lights and fully-equipped sound systems and projection. They also have sprung floors and mirrors suitable for movement and physical work. BNU use the professional venue at Wycombe Town Hall, which is less than two minutes from their campus. You will have access to high quality Sony camera equipment, suitable for film and TV screening, and also to lighting rigs and sound recording facilities.

What are your career prospects?

When you finish this course you’ll have developed the necessary skills and experience for a successful career across the arts and media sectors. BNU's graduates enjoy careers in performance and have taken further training to set up their own theatre companies.

Their BA (Hons) Performing Arts (Film TV and Stage) course will help prepare you for a range of career possibilities, such as:

• Actor/Actress
• Performer
• Teacher
• Screenwriter
• Drama Therapist

Throughout your time with BNU they’ll support you on the route to your chosen career. They will help you to develop crucial skills, encouraging you to become enterprising, employable and good leaders. They also help you find employment after graduation.