What will I study?

The BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma is an intensive two-year course that covers fundamental aspects of Musical Theatre training and performance, delivered by knowledgeable and experienced staff in state of-the-art facilities. You will develop skills in all three disciplines of dance, acting and singing as well as gaining understanding of the musical theatre industry. Throughout the two years you will be challenged to develop your personal and creative potential alongside acquiring the technical and interpretative skills required for performance. Areas of training include: vocal techniques, music theory, acting techniques, devising, directing and storytelling, jazz and movement techniques, choreography, rehearsal and performance skills and etiquette - all leading to the creation and presentation of musical theatre and variety performances. In addition, you will explore theatre history including in-depth analysis of various musical theatre practitioners and will undertake preparation and training for auditions for future opportunities in our industry and Higher Education courses. To inform and enhance your learning and development you will be expected to undertake independent rehearsals, study and research. This course is aimed at students who have ability and interest in how all three disciplines contribute to the Musical Theatre genre. You must have high levels of fitness, commitment and motivation. It is expected that you will be passionate about progressing into the creative and performance industries.

How is the course structured and assessed?

The course consists of ten units, spread over four modules of study (Musical Theatre Skills Development, The Performing Arts Industry, Personal Performing Arts Profile and Collaborative Performing Arts Project) A range of units consolidating the disciplines are delivered and assessed in the first year, alongside specialised technique units in singing, dance and acting. In the second year you will acquire and develop new skills and knowledge related to audition preparation alongside applying your techniques to a range of musical theatre productions leading up to a final major project. There are no externally assessed elements within the course, however there is a significant proportion of research and theoretical work; this is a vital component in allowing students to develop their academic skills and contextual knowledge to the same high level as their practical work.

How will I study?

Students have 14 hours a week on Musical Theatre, which will cover all three disciplines, creative and skill-based workshops and theoretical sessions led by BOA’s musical theatre staff and visiting industry professionals. You will take part in a variety of projects and performances throughout the two years, including major musical productions and a range of smaller performances and workshops. Many of these may be created in collaboration with our visiting partners and industry professionals. There will also be opportunities to work in partnership with other pathways and visit the theatre regularly. Students will be invited and expected to join the extra-curricular performance companies at BOA to support their study on the Musical Theatre pathway. Together with staff, you will be involved in setting yourself targets and monitoring your progress through all units. Further Learning & Career Options Students’ experiences at BOA will enable progression to Higher Education courses and vocational training, as well as apprenticeships and employment within the creative and performance industries. Past graduates have gone onto study Musical Theatre, Dance, Acting and Music courses at top vocational schools across the UK including ArtsEd, Guildford School of Acting, Bird College, Urdang, LIPA and Universities including Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Chichester University and many others

Further Learning & Career Options

Students’ experiences at BOA will enable progression to Higher Education courses and vocational training, as well as apprenticeships and employment within the creative and performance industries. Past graduates have gone onto study Musical Theatre, Dance, Acting and Music courses at top vocational schools across the UK including ArtsEd, Guildford School of Acting, Bird College, Urdang, LIPA and many others.