Introduction to the Programme

BA Honours Degree in Technical Theatre Arts

Introduction to the programme
3 years (full-time)

• 108 students across the programme
• 20 full-time staff
• 130 applications/36 places

Closing date for applications
27 May 2011
Please note that places are offered throughout the year, so early applications are advised.

Open day
Find out more about our Open Days

Contact: tt@gsmd.ac.uk

The programme is 3 years full-time and requires a high degree of commitment. 

Students select one of three pathways, each with a different emphasis: Stage Management, Design Realisation and Theatre Technology. Within each Pathway it is possible to study elements of the other two, so for example if you want to learn about props and scenery construction, but retain an interest in lighting you can choose accordingly, or if you’re interested in stage management, but still want to gain some experience in sound, that’s fine too. Of course, if you prefer to dedicate the bulk of your study to a particular area you can do that. The course is flexible enough to permit a wide range of interests or a more specialised approach. 

In the first year of the course Pathway areas are taught through practical exercises with students collaborating together without the pressure of public performance. All students also share a broad-based core of essential subjects covering Theatre History, Period Style, Contemporary Theatre, Health & Safety, Computer Aided Design, Stagecraft & Production Process. 

From the second year onwards students are totally immersed in the Guildhall’s extraordinary productions, working alongside professional directors and designers on a full time basis.

In their final year all students undertake leading roles in their chosen fields and may have the opportunity to lead the whole team by taking on a Production Management role. Students also complete a Graduation Project presented either as a portfolio or a written paper, and a six week secondment to a professional theatre or trade. Throughout the course students are encourage to engage with students from other programmes to generate their own projects.

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This programme is subject to re-validation by City University, London.

This programme is accredited by the National Council for Drama Training (www.ncdt.co.uk) and the Guildhall School is a member of the Conference of Drama Schools (www.drama.ac.uk).