Theatre Arts at Studio 58

Program Curriculum

Theatre Arts at Studio 58 offers a three-year Acting Diploma Program and a two-year Production Diploma Program designed to prepare students for a professional career in theatre, film, television, and related arts.

The programs graduate actors and production personnel who have a professional level of commitment and aptitude and who have acquired the skills to become contributing members of these professions.

The instructors are professional working artists in their respective fields. We maintain a close liaison with professional companies in Vancouver, casting agents, and directors, most of whom regularly employ our graduates.

Intake is limited to ensure students receive intensive individual training.

Some lecture and theory are part of the training, but the practical application of various skills is given greatest emphasis.

ACTING OPTION

Particular emphasis is placed on the development of an integrated voice and body as an expressive tool. Communication with the audience and fellow actors is stressed. Students are also encouraged to develop their creative contribution to the theatre process. The acting option comprises six terms. The emphasis in Terms 1, 2 and 3 is on class and project work. Students in Terms 1, 2 and 3 must also participate in extensive crew work on Studio 58 productions. Students in Terms 4, 5 and 6, while continuing with class work, devote most of their time to rehearsal and performance. Attention is also paid to developing audition techniques for film and television and preparation of audition material to be used upon graduation. Acting for film and television is also covered.

PRODUCTION OPTION

This program is designed for individuals with previous backstage theatre experience who wish to learn and develop additional skills in a practical theatre setting. Prospective students should have a clear notion in which areas of technical/backstage theatre they wish to concentrate their studies. The Production Option, after the first term, consists of classwork, practicum and directed studies.

This option is not a general interest course in technical theatre. Students will be given projects related to their field of study and will have the opportunity to work with professional designers and directors. Students are given a well-rounded understanding of acting, voice, and movement in their first term. After the first term, production students assume major responsibilities on Studio 58 productions.

The Production Option comprises four terms.

Grading

Acting: To be eligible for the second and third terms, students must receive a minimum ‘C’ grade in all subjects. To be eligible for the fourth and fifth terms, students must receive a minimum ‘B-’ grade in Acting and a minimum ‘C’ in all other subjects. To be eligible for the sixth term, students must receive a minimum ‘B-’ in THEA 2350 at the end of the fifth term.

Production: To be eligible for the second term, students must receive a minimum ‘C’ in all subjects. To be eligible for the third and fourth terms, students must receive a minimum ‘B-’ in THEA 2150 or 2250.

Repeating

For the policy on repeating, please contact the Theatre Arts Department. Students wishing to switch their option may do so only with the approval of the Theatre Arts Department Chair/Artistic Director.

Materials and Fees

• Students must pay a materials fee at the beginning of each term to cover the cost of theatre tickets, scripts, tapes, etc.
• They must provide outfits for movement work as required by their instructor. They are also expected to provide make-up as required, and to be prepared to have their hair cut or styled whenever needed for a part in a production.
• Production students will be required to purchase additional equipment and materials.
• An additional fee for head shots is required in the final term.

Course of Study

Unless granted previous credit for university or college-level first-year English, students must enrol in the total program.

Program Notes: Theatre Arts at Studio 58 Program curriculum is constantly under review to ensure it meets the needs of the profession.