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create perform design learn2021 Prospectus
The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama
University of London
Eton Avenue At Central, we believe that our world-leading training
London NW3 3HY should be accessible to everyone who wishes to develop
UK
their creativity and positively impact the industry.
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7722 8183
Email: enquiries@cssd.ac.uk
www.cssd.ac.uk We are a unique and special community and treat all
members and visitors with dignity and respect.
@CSSDLondon
By celebrating and respecting our different cultures,
abilities and identities we aim to shape a better future
for the arts and society.
Excellence requires diversity, which brings richness,
knowledge, innovation, new understanding and skills.
Our differences enrich our learning, insight and wisdom.
CBP002372
Printed on 100% recycled paper.
World Land Trust is an international conservation
charity, which protects the world’s most biologically
important and threatened habitats.
Madeline Samuel Malone
Charlemagne MFA Voice Studies: Teaching
and Coaching
BA (Hons) Acting Musical Theatre
‘I found I had an early affinity for
‘I applied for Central through Open singing and theatre. However, I took
Door, who offer a package of support the path well-travelled, obtaining
to young people from low income a Bachelor of Commerce degree,
backgrounds, which includes free followed by a Master’s in Adult
auditions to drama schools, as well Education. I began a corporate career,
as practical tutoring, workshops and but I never managed to shake off
travel bursaries. my desire to work in theatre and to
educate.
At the time, I knew almost nothing
about Central but it turned out to be I struggled with my identity for years,
the perfect fit for me; a course centred specifically my voice, for which I had
in acting that also develops my singing been bullied. It was when I attended
and dancing skills. Central’s audition the Canadian National Voice Intensive
was also the most welcoming I had. that my love of voice was fully realised.
All of my mentors had a unanimous
The Student Ambassadors were very
opinion on the best course, which was
helpful and I’m glad to be one of
here at Central.
them now myself, welcoming others
to Central. The training is amazing, The interview experience was less
from biomechanics in voice classes to daunting then I thought it would be. I
barre work in ballet. It is well-rounded, left feeling that the process was very
covering everything we need to much about getting to know me as an
perform in plays, musicals, television, individual with potential.
film, radio and more.
The strength of Central’s courses is
Our tutors are wonderful and truly its focus on honing the knowledge,
care about our process. Central has critical thinking and research skills
many things to be proud of, but needed to develop your own dynamic
I would say that the outstanding and responsive pedagogy.
teaching is one of the best things
about the School. Every day, I feel that I have made contacts and friends
I have achieved my goal of coming to during my time here, many of
an educational institution: I learn.’ whom I hope to collaborate with
professionally. I cannot help but feel
blessed as I look at my time at Central.’
2 3
4 5
Contents
8 32 110
70 Postgraduate Courses
72 Research Degrees (PhD/MPhil)
Why Central Courses 74 MA Acting Short Courses
10 Innovating for over 100 years 32 Undergraduate Courses 74 Programme Overview 111 Diplomas
12 An international community 76 MA Acting Classical 113 Saturday Youth Theatre
34 BA (Hons) Acting
of creativity 78 MA Acting Contemporary Summer Courses
34 Programme Overview Evening Courses
14 Partnerships and collaboration
with industry 36 Acting 80 MA Acting for Screen
38 Acting CDT
114
16 The broadest range of drama 82 MA/MFA Actor Training and
and performing arts courses 40 Acting Musical Theatre Coaching
18 First-class facilities in the 84 MA/MFA Advanced Theatre Practice
42 BA (Hons) Contemporary
heart of London
Performance Practice Next steps
20 Experience Central for yourself 86 MA Applied Theatre
42 Programme Overview 114 How to apply
21 Welcome
44 Drama, Applied Theatre and 88 MA Applied Theatre: Drama in the
22 Supporting your studies 115 Further information
Education Community and Drama Education
23 Student support and wellbeing 46 Performance Arts 116 Important information
88 MA Applied Theatre: Drama and
24 Academic support 48 Writing for Performance the Criminal Justice System
25 Technical support
26 International student support 50 BA (Hons) Theatre Practice 90 MA/MFA Creative Producing
28 Accommodation support 50 Programme Overview 92 MA Drama and Movement Therapy
29 Financial support 52 Costume Construction 94 MA/MFA Movement: Directing
54 Design for Performance and Teaching
30 Beyond Central
56 Lighting Design 96 MA Music Theatre
58 Production Lighting 98 MA/MFA Performance Practice
60 Prop Making as Research
62 Scenic Painting for Stage 100 MA/MFA Scenography
and Screen
102 MA Theatre Criticism and
64 Set Construction for Stage
Dramaturgy
and Screen
66 Stage Management and 104 MA/MFA Voice Studies: Teaching
Technical Theatre and Coaching
68 Theatre Sound 106 MA/MFA Writing for Stage and
Broadcast Media
109 P
G Certificate Applied Theatre
with Young People
6 7
Why Central? An Partnership
international and collaboration
community with
of creativity industry
The
broadest
Innovating range of drama
for over and performing
100 arts courses
years
First-class
facilities
in the heart
of London
8 9
Innovating for Dr Nicola Abraham and a team from the NHS Imperial
Hospital Trust, working with a cohort of Central students
over 100 years
and alumni, were recognised for Outstanding Arts
and Creativity in Dementia Care at the 2019 National
Dementia Care Awards for the team’s intergenerational
project work with the NHS and four schools in London.
Central has been developing the leaders Find out more at www.cssd.ac.uk/news/win-at-
and innovators who shape the future national-dementia-care-awards.
of the performing arts and society since
1906, when Elsie Fogerty founded the
Central School of Speech Training and
Dramatic Arts in rooms at the Royal Albert
Hall. Through her innovative approach
to voice training, Elsie was instrumental
in changing the way theatre was heard,
but she also had a deep commitment to
social justice and drama as a force for
change. She was an active campaigner for
a national theatre for Great Britain and
in 1923 gained recognition for Central’s
drama diplomas by the University of
London. The Royal Central School of
Speech and Drama now offers University of
London degrees and remains a progressive
conservatoire, nurturing innovation in all
aspects of contemporary performance
practice and research.
Our staff are practitioners, researchers
and writers, inspiring each generation
of new students who come to train with
us. Staff have undertaken cutting-edge
research in countries across the world
while our PhD candidates continue to
create and impart new knowledge to
inform industry practice.
We challenge students to be original
thinkers, inventive and effective
collaborators, and creative entrepreneurs
who go on to make a difference.
Sarah McBriar, graduated from MA Creative
Producing in 2014, is the Creative Producer and
Founder of both AVA Festival and Up Productions
Ltd. In 2014, she won the Commercial Education
Trust (CET) Entrepreneurs Award. Watch her story
at www.cssd.ac.uk/ma-creative-producing.
10 11
In 2018, Dr Katharine Low began a collaboration with the Hillbrow
An international Theatre Project at the Outreach Foundation in South Africa, funded
by the Global Challenges Research Fund. The project addresses
community
some of the issues of urban living by using performance-based
work and digital storytelling to question, provoke and extend
understandings of health rights, access to healthcare and support
of creativity and the experiences of urban living. Find out more about this
project and other research by Dr Katharine Low at www.cssd.
ac.uk/staff/dr-katharine-low-ma-hons-ma-phd.
Central is known around the globe for
the impact of its graduates, teachers and
researchers – both on and off the screen
and stage, as well as in community and
applied theatre. Students from all over
the world come to study at Central, not
only to train in their chosen discipline,
but also to learn about all the others and
how they interrelate. Making theatre and
performance brings people together and
helps them find common ground while
celebrating their differences, and Central’s
international and cultural diversity is one
of its key artistic and learning resources.
Graduates form a life-long, international
peer support network, frequently working
together in creative and production teams
around the world after they graduate.
Our alumni community is exactly that: a
community. Our graduates from across
the globe stay in touch and share the
work they are undertaking, with many
still attending Central productions and
reunions. This closeness also results in
inspirational experiences for current
students through alumni mentoring and
networking opportunities.
A group of Central staff, students and
alumni took part in the 2019 Prague
Quadrennial, the largest international
festival of theatre and stage design. Staff,
including Dr Kathrine Sandys, Dr David
Shearing and Andreas Skourtis, were key
players in the UK’s national entry for the
event with this work commencing an eight-
month residency at the Victoria and Albert
(V&A) Museum immediately after. Find out
more at www.cssd.ac.uk/news/2019-
prague-quadrennial.
12 13
Partnerships and
The public production of Boudica in
November 2019, performed both at Central
and the Curve Theatre Leicester, was a
collaboration collaboration between BA (Hons) Acting
Musical Theatre, BA (Hons) Theatre Practice,
BA (Hons) Contemporary Performance
with industry Practice and MA Scenography students.
Central has an unrivalled range of
international partners and collaborators,
from world-leading theatre companies like
Complicité and Graeae, to the United States
Institute of Theatre Technology (USITT) or
the Harry Potter Experience in London.
Placement opportunities range from the
Glastonbury Festival and the set of Star
Wars to community drama projects as far
afield as New York, Mumbai and South
Africa. Students are regularly placed on
projects within specialist production
departments at the National Theatre, Royal
Shakespeare Company, in the West End,
at Elstree Studios, Pinewood Studios and
literally hundreds of other arts and cultural
organisations.
As a leading conservatoire, Central enjoys
the support of professional employers
and works hand-in-hand with the people
and organisations in the performing
arts sector. We work closely with casting
agencies and directors to ensure the best
possible exposure for our Acting students.
Employers and industry professionals are
invited to over 20 public productions and
industry showcases each year, in addition
to annual design and craft exhibitions, open
scenography studio showcases, screenings
and more.
14 15
The broadest range of drama and performing arts courses With 15 courses at undergraduate level and 14 Master’s programmes, we offer Europe’s most comprehensive choice of specialist higher education drama, theatre and performance training. At Central, you will focus on your chosen subject and will also see how all these specialist roles interrelate. You will be surrounded by other equally passionate students, as well as teachers, researchers and industry professionals from all departments and aspects of the broad performing arts ecosystem. Many of our courses collaborate with each other on projects and productions, preparing students for professional work in the industry when they graduate. 16 17
Central’s new £16.7 million North Block
building houses the Courtyard Theatre, a
sound stage for supporting television and film-
based projects, two double-height rehearsal
spaces, new dressing rooms and a two-storey
movement studio. See our virtual tour at
www.cssd.ac.uk/tour.
First-class
facilities in the
heart of London
Our campus is in London’s NW3 postcode,
right by Swiss Cottage tube station and
near to such landmarks as Regent’s Park,
Hampstead Heath, Abbey Road Studios, the
Hampstead Theatre and Camden Market. It
has six fully-functioning performance spaces,
with the iconic 234-seat Embassy Theatre
at its centre. Within those walls, Gordon
Craig, Paul Robeson and Joan Littlewood, to
name but a few, made historically significant
theatre and we continue to use the space
to train the next generation. Surrounded by
purpose-built workshops, rehearsal rooms,
a wardrobe department, dressing rooms,
design studios and more, students can excel
in their area of specialism.
18 19Experience Central for yourself Welcome
It is my privilege to introduce you to The Royal Central School
Open days We do not currently hold open Campus tours of Speech and Drama – the University of London’s drama
days for the BA (Hons) Acting conservatoire and one of the world’s leading centres of training,
BA (Hons) Contemporary These take place most Wednesday
programme; we recommend
Performance Practice accessing the wealth of online
afternoons for all courses except advanced study and research in theatre and the performing arts.
2 July 2020 BA (Hons) Acting. You can book at
information on our website and
30 September 2020 www.cssd.ac.uk/book-campus-
the virtual tour below.
tour.
BA (Hons) Theatre Practice At a BA (Hons) Acting audition in
3 July 2020 London, you will receive a tour Virtual tour
30 April 2020 of the School and meet current
2 October 2020 students from the course. See a selection of the extensive
28 October 2020 facilities on our campus, including
You may be eligible for a free the new North Block, at
Postgraduate audition for BA (Hons) Acting, www.cssd.ac.uk/tour. We are a community of specialists, a ‘technical’ departments have given way a key role in stimulating public debate,
7 May 2020 please check the criteria at hive of collaborative creativity and a to a new, more collaborative ethos of shaping opinion and making complex
5 November 2020 www.cssd.ac.uk/freeauditions. See a show, exhibition or place where academics, artists and creative teamwork. Film, television and issues accessible. Drama is experiencing
28 January 2021 industry professionals come together theatre productions are now creative a new golden age on screen as modes
13 May 2021
festival to shape the future through making art collaborations between visual and of audience change with the advent
We have over 20 public productions and exchanging knowledge. audio artists and makers, performers, of on-demand streaming. Through
Book your place at and industry showcases that take technical specialists, dramaturgs and applied theatre, collaborative outreach
www.cssd.ac.uk/events. Everyone is welcome at Central. We stage and production managers. Many and knowledge exchange projects,
place every year, ranging from small-
are driven by a passionate belief in art, of the leaders of this paradigm change our graduates, students and staff are
and large-scale productions, to design
and are committed to creating a safe have been Central graduates. involved in projects that empower
festivals, screenings and research
space for you to experiment, make people, heal communities, uncover
events. You can see what’s on and mistakes, learn from them, work hard Throughout, Central has sustained its suppressed or underrepresented
buy tickets at www.cssd.ac.uk/ and (importantly) have fun as you train traditional conservatoire ethos of small histories and imagine new possibilities
events. for your chosen career. class sizes, practical learning and high and brighter futures.
contact hours, while also ensuring that
Follow us on social media for an I joined Central from a career in theatre students can reflect critically on what I very much hope that you find the
insight into what goes on at the and film twenty-five years ago, and they do, with a firm grasp of history course that is right for you in these
School. during that time have witnessed theatre and current theory and scholarship. pages, and that you will consider making
transform and diversify. The digital As graduates, they go on to become an application. To get a fuller sense of
revolution, the aesthetic influences of the change-makers who keep the field who we are and what we do, please also
film, media, and forms of performance moving forward. see our website and, if you can, come
@CSSDLondon
from all over the globe have made and visit us for one of our open days or
theatre one of the most varied and vital I believe Central’s work is important many public performances.
art forms of our times. The number because the performing arts are
of specialist professional roles and important. As the world addresses Professor Ross Brown
career options has multiplied. The climate change, social justice, the rise Dean of School
hierarchical structures of production of populist political extremism and
that used to divide ‘creatives’ from the other vexing issues, performance plays
20 21Student support and wellbeing
www.cssd.ac.uk/content/counselling
We are dedicated to ensuring students have access to the services they require to make their time at
Central as welcoming and rewarding as possible, allowing them to focus fully on their training.
Short-term individual Disability and dyslexia Care leaver support
counselling www.cssd.ac.uk/content/ www.cssd.ac.uk/content/
www.cssd.ac.uk/content/ disability-and-dyslexia care-leavers
counselling
The Disability and Dyslexia Service As one of the first drama schools
Undertaking a course at Central can offers a range of information, to be signed up to the Care Leaver
often mean the need to move to a new guidance and support to students Covenant, we are committed to
city, perhaps even a new country, away with disabilities and specific learning increasing the number of care leavers
from family and the security of ‘home’. differences including: accessing higher education and have
Intensive professional training can a bespoke support package available
n support during the audition/ which includes:
sometimes be demanding as you learn
interview process
to develop new skills. Changes and
free dyslexia screening n a nominated member of staff who
adjustments can lead us to consider n
appointments with specialist tutors acts as a key point of contact for
Supporting your studies
wider questions about ourselves,
You can find out more care leavers and is able to refer
our relationships and the world in n dyslexia diagnostic appointments
about support services applicants to our various support
which we live. Counselling sessions (at the student’s cost)
services for the duration of their
on the next few pages provide an opportunity to talk with a yslexia diagnostic feedback
d
www.cssd.ac.uk/student-support n studies
and do visit us for an practitioner in confidence about any appointments
open day, campus issues that may be causing concern. n a bursary for care leavers totalling
n ssistance to students with
a
tour or see Central’s Central is a unique place to study and we want every student to have £1000 per student for each
All our counsellors are members of applications for Disabled Students’
academic year, which contributes
web pages for more an equally exciting and inspiring experience, as well as feeling well the British Association for Counselling Allowance
to living costs and any other costs
information. and Psychotherapy (BACP), or the UK isabled Students’ Allowance
D
supported from day one. n associated with studying.
Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). funded needs assessments
Counsellors have regular clinical 1:1 specialist study-skills support
To help achieve this, we have recently We want you to feel comfortable and
supervision of client work and practise
n
Students’ Union
opened our new Student Centre, empowered in addressing any concerns n :1 enabling and assistive
1
in accordance with the BACP’s Code of www.centralsu.com
which focuses on providing accessible, that arise on your student journey and we technology training
Ethics. The service is free for students.
professional and compassionate work closely with the Students’ Union to n 1:1 in-house mentoring All students automatically become a
support in a one-stop hub, offering the ensure the student experience remains at member of the Students’ Union, which
Mental health mentoring n isseminating information School-
d
convenience of meeting student support the heart of everything that we do. means you have access to everything
wide and to relevant academic
needs in one place. that is on offer. The Union is led
We provide, free of charge: We offer one-to-one mentoring for departments.
students with mental health conditions by 20 officers who run year-round
Central is a distinctively energetic
counselling including: campaigns, societies and social events,
learning environment, where the practical n
Dyslexia and neuro-diverse including our Freshers’ Fortnight.
intensity of conservatoire training and mental health advice
n
n ssistance with pastoral matters
a learners
innovation and enquiry of a university n wellbeing advice and workshops Central’s Students’ Union works to give
meet. This can be thrilling, but at times which may cause anxiety or stress
n disability and neurodiversity support About 18% of students at Central are a voice to underrepresented students
it can also be emotionally and physically n support with motivation and morale dyslexic or dyspraxic learners. The
n doctor registration information and is committed to enhancing the
challenging for some. n
help with organisation, planning Dyslexia Service actively encourages student experience for all.
n induction events and problem-solving tailored to the understanding of neuro-diversity
Our diverse team of expert wellbeing and international student support individual needs
n
across the School and is involved
disability staff provide a safe, confidential accommodation guidance
n
n uidance on how to better manage
g in promoting teaching, learning
and non-judgemental space, in which
n funding advice irregular behaviour and improve and assessment strategies that are
you can discuss any issue that may be
consent training self-awareness. inclusive at point of design. Central
affecting your ability to study so that you n
acknowledges and is committed to a
are able to remain on track. n specialist bullying and harassment
School-wide approach to supporting
advice.
neuro-diverse students.
22 23Technical support
As part of our commitment to supporting students studying at Central, we have a range of dedicated
technical support for students studying at all degree levels.
Technical and production and Juki, steam presses, a Comel fusing IT support
press and Miele laundry equipment.
www.cssd.ac.uk/content/ www.cssd.ac.uk/content/it-
technical-support Extensive Scenic and Props Workshops department-helpdesk
provide facilities for the construction
The excellent facilities on our Swiss Central provides students with a
and painting of scenery on public
Cottage campus are managed by teams wide variety of tools and services to
productions, alongside spaces to create
of expert industry professionals who support students in their studies.
props and effects using both traditional
offer inductions, clinics and general These range from dedicated computer
and digital techniques.
support on a variety of subjects rooms with the latest Windows and
and skills. They also manage stock The Media Team maintains a broad Mac environments, all of which have
equipment which reflects that used in range of audio-visual equipment for industry-standard software that
the professions and work with industry Central’s community of students and are specifically installed to prepare
partners to ensure all students have faculty provides advice and training and students after their studies.
the most current equipment available. works alongside students in support of
Industry partners include ETC, In addition, students have access
course-based projects.
Academic support GrandMA, Chauvet, DiGiCo, Yamaha,
d&b audiotechnik and many more. Equipment and software is available
for students to explore and develop
to ‘follow-me’ printing, allowing
the flexibility to print on any of the
networked printing and scanning
In the Costume Workshops, in addition skills within the areas of photography, devices that are situated in different
We offer a wealth of academic support to enable and empower to the facilities for making, dyeing and filmmaking, content creation and video areas of the building. Students with
students to make the most of their degree. We are also able to support altering costumes as required on shows projection, including editing suites with their own devices can also benefit from
and other projects, the department specialised computer workstations accessing internet-based services over
different learning styles through practices that include personal provides high-quality haberdashery the extensive WiFi network available
offering applications such as Final Cut
tutoring, as well as the Learning Skills Programme. and materials for selected projects and Pro, a training suite with a selection throughout the campus.
offers constant advice and support. of applications for Computer-Aided
Equipment available includes sewing The IT department is also available
Design (CAD) and image manipulation.
machines and interlockers by Bernina during certain periods between
Learning Skills Services Library Monday and Friday to provide support
www.cssd.ac.uk/content/ that is specifically related to the IT
Our on-campus library offers a specialist
learning-skills services that Central provides. Issues
collection of drama and theatre practice
can also be raised via telephone, email
resources. It holds a comprehensive and
As a Central student, you can access the or through MyCentral (online portal).
unique specialist collection of over 38,000
Learning Skills Programme in a range of
well-organised, relevant, up-to-date books,
different ways to suit your learning style
journals and eResources covering all
and availability; this ranges from one-
aspects of the performing arts and related
to-one or group sessions, to accessing
disciplines, together with performance
learning materials on Central’s Virtual
DVDs, feature films, sound effects, musical
Learning Environment. Our dedicated
theatre CDs and scores.
academic team of learning development
experts specialises in a range of disciplines, Students are also entitled to join the
including research skills, academic writing University of London’s Senate House
and English for academic purpose. Library which houses a nationally
recognised collection of books and
The ethos of the Learning Skills Programme
eResources.
is firmly centred on strengthening the
student’s independent learning identities,
so that you can use the tools and learning
that we offer to approach your course and
assessments proactively.
24 25International student support Before you arrive After you arrive
Auditions and interviews International pre-course
www.cssd.ac.uk/international-students
Central hosts international auditions www.cssd.ac.uk/content/
and interviews for many of its international-pre-course
One of the great benefits of studying at Central is undoubtedly its courses. In the past, auditions and
The Learning Skills Programme
location in the heart of London. As a student, you will be encouraged interviews have taken place in
offers a pre-course for international
to experience the richness and diversity of performance that is on offer Singapore, Hong Kong, Toronto,
students, which runs in September.
New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San
in the capital. We recommend that you make yourself aware of what to The course is for all non-UK students
Francisco, Bangkok, Sydney, Santiago
and will prepare you for UK academic
anticipate in a UK university – modes of study and ways of life might be and Bogotá. Dates and locations for
study, so that you can embark on
auditions and interviews vary and
different from what you might expect in your own country. information can be found at
your degree fully prepared.
www.cssd.ac.uk.
International Student
English language Welcome Event
requirements Our Student Advice Service hosts
an International Student Welcome
All of Central’s courses are taught in
Event which brings international
English and normally have a stated
students together and provides key
International English Language
information on Central and living in
Testing System (IELTS) requirement of
London. It is also an opportunity for
7.0. Further information can be found
students to meet members of the
on page 115.
Student Advice Service who are on
hand to help with any queries you
Student visa applications may have during your time at Central.
Many international students require
a visa in order to study in the UK. Students’ Union
If you are accepted onto a course, International Officer
we will send you information and
paperwork for making your student The Students’ Union has a dedicated
visa application. Full information on International Officer whose role
visa applications can be found at is to ensure that the views of
www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa. international students are heard
and communicated to the School.
This officer helps organise events
specifically for international students
and acts as a useful point of contact
for students during their time training
at Central.
Academic support for
learning skills
Once enrolled, you will be able to
access a range of free academic
support through the Learning Skills
Programme, including, but not limited
to, one-to-one sessions focusing
on English with academic purpose
and themed short courses on other
learning skills.
26 27Accommodation support Financial support
www.cssd.ac.uk/accommodation www.cssd.ac.uk/student-finance-and-funding
Finding the right accommodation is an important part of helping the transition into university life. The At Central, we are committed to supporting as many students as we can to help ease the financial
Student Advice Service offers year-round accommodation support by providing help and guidance to worries of studying. We have a number of awards available for which prospective students can apply
both current and prospective students. Central students have a wealth of options available in regards and we also encourage you to seek out external funding opportunities that might be available.
to the types of accommodation they can explore, in different locations and at a range of prices.
Scholarships, bursaries External funding
Private rented University of London University of London and awards opportunities
accommodation Intercollegiate Halls Housing Services Central aims to be accessible to all Prospective students who are seeking
potential students regardless of their extra funds to support their studies
The majority of Central students Central receives an annual allocation This service is available for Central are also encouraged to use online
choose to live in private rented of rooms in the University of London’s students seeking further assistance background and to support them to
achieve their full potential. The School resources where external grants can
accommodation in north west London Intercollegiate Halls across two central with any accommodation issues, be secured directly by the student; for
with other students from the School. London locations. This accommodation including legal advice and contract provides a number of scholarships and
bursaries each year for both new and instance, there may be scholarship
This can be a cost-effective way of is usually catered and the application checking. The Housing Services also opportunities based within the
being closer to Central’s Swiss Cottage process begins in late spring each have a database of houses, flats and existing students. Details on how to
apply for scholarships, bursaries and applicant’s country of origin.
campus. The Student Advice Service academic year. rooms across London.
holds two Sharers’ Days before awards, as well as the latest list of
These include, but are not limited to,
the start of term to assist students what is available, can be found at
Private halls of residence University of London The Marshall Scholarship, see www.
in finding a suitable property and www.cssd.ac.uk/scholarships-
marshallscholarship.org, for US
potential housemates. Student Homes bursaries-awards.
students who wish to study at graduate
Some students choose to live in private
halls of residence either near to Central University of London Student Homes level, or the BECAS Chile Scholarship,
or within a short commute. These Fulbright – Central award see www.becaschile.cl, for Chilean
works in partnership with trusted
privately managed student halls are private landlords to provide good students who wish to undertake
not owned by universities: most are Central also offers a specific award graduate study in the UK.
quality housing for UoL students; through the Fulbright Commission
owned by commercial companies and Central postgraduate students have
some are run by charitable institutions. which covers the first year of any MA or Central also nominates students for
the option to use this service. MFA course offered by the School for a number of other external funding
a US student. Details can be found at opportunities. We will inform offered
www.fulbright.org.uk. applicants and enrolled students of any
awards for which they may be eligible
to apply.
28 29Beyond Central Kit Harington as Jon Snow
in Game Of Thrones on
Sky Atlantic, image courtesy
www.cssd.ac.uk/alumni of Sky Press ©HBO.
‘Central has been For over 100 years, Central has trained many of the most distinguished
instrumental in sustaining theatre practitioners and performers working across the world.
my career. I often look back
on the fond memories,
Central’s graduates continue to make Our graduates can also be found using
experiences and exceptional
their mark in every avenue of the creative applied theatre techniques to support
training that I encountered.’ industries; they are actors, writers, and strengthen communities across
artistic directors, scenic artists, lighting, the globe; working in prisons, schools,
Karl Queensborough,
sound, set, video and costume designers, hospitals and arts organisations utilising
currently starring as prop makers, teachers, voice coaches, drama and the arts to change lives, or Alumni awards and Alumni theatre companies Recent alumni news
Alexander Hamilton in interdisciplinary artists, movement conducting cutting-edge research to recognition and enterprises
In addition to the graduate stories
Hamilton at Victoria Palace directors, venue and stage managers, continue to influence industry practice.
Central graduates are at the forefront Many of Central’s courses encourage profiled on each of the individual
Theatre, London. drama therapists and dramaturgs.
of the arts and entertainment and support students to collaborate course pages that follow, below is a
industries, and have been recognised and produce their own work, often small selection of the alumni news we
with accolades including Oscars, leading to the formation of their own have recently celebrated:
Golden Globes, BAFTAs, Tony and companies once they have graduated.
> Naomi Ackie played Jannah in Star
Olivier Awards, in addition to specialist Last year, we had over 117 active
Wars 9: The Rise Of Skywalker, which
awards recognising the work of graduate theatre companies, many of
included special effects from Miles
particular disciplines. For example, which have produced work that has
Ascough
recently: been performed in almost 300 venues
worldwide. Examples include: > Polly Bennett was the Movement
> Carolyn Downing co-won a UK Coach on feature film Bohemian
Theatre Award in the category of > Dante or Die produce site-specific Rhapsody, which starred Ben Hardy,
Best Design for her work providing work that transforms ordinary and Netflix’s The Crown, which included
sound design for Life Of Pi at Sheffield spaces to create unique and intimate dialect coaching from Nick Trumble
Theatre theatrical experiences. Their recent
show User Not Found, set in a café, > Christian Clark is Deputy Head
> Sami Fendall won the 2019 Linbury undertook an international tour of Lighting and Video for the UK
Prize, the UK’s most prestigious including shows in New York and and Ireland Tour of Sir Cameron
award for Stage Design Tel Aviv Mackintosh’s production of
> Sonia Friedman was named Les Misérables, which includes
> Phosphoros Theatre devise performance from Felix Mosse
Producer of the Year for a record- productions with refugees that
breaking fourth time at The Stage enable and empower them to tell > Rory Evans and Daniel Hughes’
Awards 2019 their own stories through the use of company, Illusion Design and
> Kit Harington was recognised for his theatre. Their first show Dear Home Construct, built the set for Secret
performance as Jon Snow in Game Office was shortlisted for the Amnesty Cinema’s Stranger Things, an
of Thrones with both an Emmy and a Freedom of Expression Award in 2016 immersive experience based on the
Golden Globe Award nomination hit Netflix show
> Engineer Theatre Collective are a
> Johanne Jensen won The ETC Award group of devisers creating visually > Gareth Fry, Pete Malkin, Finn Ross,
for Excellence in Lighting Design striking, ensemble-led theatre, and Gary Beestone were all members
and Bethany Gupwell was the exploring new and challenging of the creative team of Harry Potter
recipient of The Francis Reid Award, storytelling forms And The Cursed Child, produced by
both awarded by the Association of Sonia Friedman, providing sound,
> Unlock Drama work with video design and technical direction
Lighting Designers marginalised groups, including young respectively. The West End cast also
> David Jubb won a special award at and homeless people, ex-offenders includes Thomas Gilbey, Emma May-
the Off West End Theatre Awards and those with a history of drug or Uden and Lucy Mangan
Cast of Pizza Shop Heroes
for his work as Artistic Director at substance abuse, to deliver drama
produced by Phosphoros
Battersea Arts Centre. projects that help unlock life skills that > Jack Loxton now stars in the West
Theatre, ©Charlie Ensor.
can support them in day-to-day life. End’s transfer of the Tony Award-
winning musical Dear Evan Hansen.
30 31Undergraduate Courses
33
32BA (Hons) Acting
Nonso Anozie
Graduated 2002, recent film credits include Cinderella, directed by Kenneth
Branagh with Cate Blanchett and Derek Jacobi, Pan with Hugh Jackman, and
Programme Overview
television credits include Game Of Thrones, Dracula, Doctor Who, Zoo and 7 Days In
Entebbe with Rosamund Pike.
‘Central didn’t force-feed me about what to be. Central gave me infinite options so that
I could choose which ones to take on board and build my craft. Everyone at drama
school had talent. At Central, you are given time and the tools so you can improve your
skill. With skill, your talent can shine.’
A professional intensive actor training During your training, you will be taught by both resident
staff and a range of leading professional practitioners
programme offering three very distinctive from the cultural industries – including theatre, film and
professional courses for those wanting television.
a career in theatre, television, film and
Upon completion, you will graduate not only with the
radio: professional skills and practical knowledge necessary to
build a career in the industry, but also have developed
> Acting confidence and belief in yourself as an artist in the 21st
> Acting Collaborative & Devised century.
Theatre (CDT) We audition in London, regionally and internationally.
> Acting Musical Theatre (MT). Please check the auditions section on page 114 for more
information on how to apply. The BA (Hons) Acting
Programme at Central continues to address the inclusivity
BA (Hons) Acting award-winning graduates include Cush agenda and is currently involved in several national
Jumbo, Zoë Tapper, Claire Bloom, Judi Dench, Rupert initiatives in this area. We are delighted to offer free
Everett, Kevin Whately, Joss Ackland, Martin Freeman, Zoë auditions to eligible applicants – please check details and
Wanamaker, Gael García Bernal, James Purefoy, Andrew other information on scholarships, bursaries and awards at
Garfield, Kit Harington, Julie Christie, Laurence Olivier, the back of this prospectus and see www.cssd.ac.uk.
Carrie Fisher, Harold Pinter, Graham Norton, Catherine
Tate, Vanessa Redgrave, Alex Hassell, Natasha Richardson, The Acting Programme is very well-established, connected
Naomi Ackie, Tom Brittney, Fisayo Akinade, Ben Hardy, to the performance industry and through alumni, industry
Hannah John-Kamen, Kadiff Kirwan, Audrey Brisson and contacts, visiting professionals and staff who are active
Cherrelle Skeete. practitioners. The commitment required to be part of it is
huge – but in return, we will create the enabling conditions
You will study for three years within a thriving conservatoire for you to develop your future career.
environment that is home to a dynamic range of other
related specialist performance disciplines at both
undergraduate and postgraduate level.
Joe Alwyn
Graduated 2015, first professional job was the title role in Ang Lee’s Billy Lynn’s Long
Halftime Walk, subsequently filmed The Sense Of An Ending with Charlotte Rampling,
Mary Queen Of Scots with Margot Robbie, The Favourite with Emma Stone and Boy Erased
with Russell Crowe.
‘Central provided me with an environment that gave me the confidence and permission to go
for something I’d always really wanted. It was hard work but I loved the level and the intensity
of the training. It’s a place where you can play around and make mistakes and grow, alongside
a small class of people you’ll see almost every day for three years. It felt unique and exciting and
unlike anything I’d experienced. The training is brilliant. You just have to jump in and give it your
all: be bold in your own way, be hungry to soak everything up and find out what works for you.’
34 | Undergraduate Courses | 35Year 1 Professional Focus
Andrew Garfield Discovery – freeing and Central employs professional
Acting
Graduated 2004, recent film credits include The Amazing Spider-Man 2, 99 Homes, discovering: an environment directors from the second year,
of active learning is carefully and invites a range of industry
Breathe, Martin Scorsese’s Silence with Liam Neeson and Under The Silver Lake, and was
nurtured, with particular professionals to deliver talks
nominated for an Oscar for Best Actor in Hacksaw Ridge directed by Mel Gibson; theatre
emphasis placed on the and workshops on subjects
credits include Tony Kushner’s Angels In America at the National Theatre.
individual actor’s aptitude from audition technique to
‘It can be a playground. The core teachers inspire and can reveal parts of yourself that you
www.cssd.ac.uk/ba-acting for self-expression within a rehearsing Shakespeare. Recent
might not know existed – if you allow them that trust and openness, you can experience true collaborative class, rehearsal guests include acclaimed
creativity. It can be testing and a struggle, but that’s where most of the learning happens. I feel and production setting. You directors Michael Grandage and
that my training at Central ultimately showed me how generous you can be in this profession. will learn to open up the body, Lindsay Posner, and well-known
You definitely get out of it what you put in. You are your own master. The teachers’ expertise is
Comprehensive classical and voice and imagination and to actors such as James Purefoy
sacred. If you’re lucky enough to be in a creative environment with them, give all of yourself to it, contemporary actor training embrace methodologies that and Kit Harington. Acting
but never lose who you are. It all ultimately comes from within you. And just play.’ promote professional discipline students gain professional work
Prepares actors who aim to become and self-discovery alongside the
development of techniques that
while still on the course and
there are regular visits by major
world-leading artists in theatre, film, lead to a psychologically-rooted, theatre companies, such as the
television and radio physically-embodied character. Royal Shakespeare Company
Lindsey Campbell and the Almeida Theatre, who
Year 2 give talks and hold workshops.
Graduated 2013, professional London stage debut was in The Harvest at the Soho Theatre,
Focuses on new thinking in response
subsequently filmed The Holly Kane Experiment, a British feature directed by Tom Sands Mastery – expanding form Other recent directors and
and played the lead in Right Now at the Bush Theatre. Television credits include Silent
to the rapidly evolving world of the arts and meaning: building on visiting professionals include
Witness, Casualty, Comedy Feeds and Endeavour and she is a regular on the BBC’s River City. and culture core training, you will take Auriol Smith (Orange Tree,
Lindsey won an Off West End Award for Best Supporting Female Performance in The Open what you have learned into Royal Exchange), Richard
House at The Coronet Theatre in 2018.
The course has strong links with the new and intensified theatrical Beecham (Crucible Sheffield),
contexts, expanding your own Dugald Bruce-Lockhart
‘My time at Central gave me the essential training and knowledge I needed to develop as an actor industry physical, vocal and emotional (Propeller), Bill Buckhurst
at the start of my career. The course offers a wide variety of teaching that nurtures and liberates range to meet the demands (Shakespeare’s Globe),
your creativity. I have also gained a huge support network that I know will always be there, inside
Alumni have achieved notable success of classical and contemporary Sarah Berger (Casualty),
and outside of Central.’ performance styles. You will Rolf Saxon (Woman In Gold),
throughout theatre, film, television encounter a wide range of Simon Dormandy (Liverpool
and radio and received numerous high complex texts, exploring a Playhouse, Complicité),
profile awards heightened use of physicality, Jonathan O’Boyle (Chichester
voice and speech and the Festival Theatre), Irina Brown
dramatic imagination. You will (National Theatre), Ian Brener
also learn to transfer skills to (Theatre Royal Haymarket,
The course has four key principles: both television and radio. Sadler’s Wells), Paul Harris
(Harry Potter), Nick DiCola
Self-discovery – we encourage you to investigate and
Year 3 (Billy Elliot), Peta Lily (Théâtre
interrogate your world, challenging your own habits and du Mouvement), Mark Street
Independence – applying the
preconceptions and opening yourself to the journey of the (Forbidden Theatre Company),
craft of acting: focusing on the
training. You will learn to accept uncertainty and failure ‘industry-ready’ actor. You will Chris Pavlo (BBC Radio) and
as part of the process of change and growth, and make perform in productions that Philip Foster (Thriller Live).
curiosity, originality and artistic courage the cornerstones aim to consolidate your skills
of your professional and artistic life. in acting, voice and movement, Duration
and you will embrace a broad Three years, full-time,
Artistry – we offer you the skills you need to build your range of industry-specific skills October start
craft as an actor, so that your imagination and creativity as part of a rigorous transition
can find expression in truthful characterisation and in the from personal development to Application
telling of complex and profound stories that offer insights career-orientation, including Via UCAS, www.ucas.com
into our world and the human condition. the presentation of an
Institution Code
industry-targeted showcase.
Empowerment – within the safety of the creative space You will meet with industry C35
and the integrity of the acting ensemble, we promote professionals and acquire Course Code
the honest exchange of thoughts and ideas, the sharing skills in auditioning, television
W410
of creative inspiration and the generosity of spirit which castings, self-taping and the
should always characterise a true actor. production of showreels and
voice reels. Course Leader
Tradition and innovation – intrinsic to this course is Nick Moseley
a commitment to studying longstanding theories and
practices while welcoming innovation and new vision. Award
BA (Hons) Acting
Students are entitled to full Equity status upon graduation. (360 credits/Level 6)
36 | Undergraduate Courses | 37Acting CDT
www.cssd.ac.uk/ba-acting-cdt Year 1 Professional Focus
Acting and devising practice: In recent years, students have
through progressive work had workshops and created
on acting, script analysis, performances with Complicité,
Innovative and rigorous actor training, voice, movement, devising, Engineer Theatre Collective,
emphasising the creation of new work ensemble, singing, dance and Prodigal Theatre, Filter Theatre,
improvisation, you will begin to Lucy Porter (actress, writer,
Embraces a multidisciplinary and undo physical and vocal habits. comedian), Marcello Magni
You will develop openness (director), Ridiculusmus Theatre
psychophysical methodology and sensitivity to space, image Company, Justin Edwards (actor,
and impulse, and cultivate writer), Pooja Ghai (director),
Celebrates the creative potential of psychophysical connectivity. Nancy Meckler (director), Declan
collaborative processes alongside You will apply these approaches Donnellan OBE (Cheek by Jowl),
to work on poetry, verbatim, Robin Soans (actor, playwright
development of the individual actor observation and storytelling, specialising in verbatim
and studio work on three plays. plays), Tanika Gupta MBE
Students graduate with the skills to (playwright), Toplar Campbell,
Year 2 Action Transport Theatre, Blind
work in classical and contemporary Summit, The TEAM (New York),
Transforming through acting
theatre, film, radio and television and devising: by continued and out of Inc. and Quiconque.
extended work, you will move Film and theatre professionals,
Works developed in creative towards greater expressivity and such as Imogen Knight and Ng
Choon Png, are often invited to
partnership with Complicité transformation across a broad
hold research and development
range of characters and genres.
This is applied to a full-length workshops with students, who
devised performance, American may go on to work on those
The core actor training includes the psychophysical scenes, radio drama, comedy of productions.
techniques of Jacques Lecoq, Michael Chekhov, Konstantin manners and classical tragedy.
Stanislavsky, Kristin Linklater and Moshe Feldenkrais and Uniquely, the process includes Duration
emphasises an embodied and experiential approach. As the full integration of design Three years, full-time,
well as developing rehearsal techniques for script-based (sound, lighting, video, set) in October start
the autumn term. Training
work, the course will encourage you to explore the most Application
concludes with a three-week
up-to-date forms of theatre and filmmaking and to have a clown intensive and a series Via UCAS, www.ucas.com
full creative and political engagement with your work. of professional preparation
Institution Code
Permanent members of the Acting CDT staff regularly work workshops.
C35
on professional theatre projects and, from the outset, you
will work closely with professional theatre companies and Year 3 Course Code
emergent and professionally active directors. Testing creativity and actor W410
processes: through producing
NAOMI ACKIE Students are entitled to full Equity status upon graduation. public performances for Course Leader
audiences, agents, casting
Graduated 2012, played Jannah in Star Wars 9: The Rise Of Skywalker and the prequel Catherine Alexander
directors and industry
cast of Game Of Thrones. Her film debut in 2017’s Lady Macbeth won the Most professionals, you will develop
Promising Newcomer from the British Independent Film Awards and was named as your artistry and independence. Award
one of Screen International’s Stars of Tomorrow. She also appeared in the Idris Elba You will work on at least two BA (Hons) Acting
film Yardie and The Bisexual on Channel 4, as well as playing Bonnie in the series plays and one devised theatre (360 credits/Level 6)
The End Of The F***ing World. piece, as well as undertaking
radio and screen training
‘My three years at Central studying Acting CDT allowed me to decide what kind of actor I
(including recording voice clips
wanted to be. With such a wide variety of practices, tutors and directors, I was given the space
and showreels, and writing,
to make mistakes and be triumphant, sometimes all in the same day! The course pushed
shooting and editing a short
me to be experimental and bold with my acting choices, while still relaying the importance of
film). One performance is usually
being smart, disciplined and, most importantly, a team player. When I left the course, I felt well performed at a professional
equipped with tools that would allow me to learn with every opportunity given to me and push London theatre venue, as is the
the boundaries of what I thought was possible in storytelling. This course gave me permission annual showcase.
to take ownership of my craft and for that I will always be grateful.’
38 | Undergraduate Courses | 39Acting Musical Theatre
www.cssd.ac.uk/ba-acting-musical-theatre Year 1 Professional Focus
Classes and workshops: you All students on the course
will have a full-time schedule engage with industry
in acting fundamentals, acting professionals on a daily basis.
orld-leading acting-focused musical
W through song, spoken and Recent visiting professionals
theatre training sung voice (including one-to- include directors Maria
one weekly singing lessons), Friedman (award-winning
utstanding graduate destinations
O ballet, jazz, ballroom and actress and director), Anthony
contemporary dance, clowning, Banks (National Theatre), Petra
in international film, musical theatre, text analysis, musical theatre Siniawski (UK Director, Wicked),
classical and contemporary theatre, repertoire and ensemble Jamie Armitage (Co-Director, Six)
singing. You will undertake and Sue Dunderdale; and actors
television, radio and the games industry performance projects that may Bette Midler, Emma Cunniffe
include Chekhov, Dostoyevsky, and David Hounslow.
redominantly taught by leading
P Pinter and Shakespeare
Recent industry collaborations
industry practitioners comedy.
include the National Theatre (NT
Connections and NT Studio for
egular collaboration with industry
R Year 2 producers’ showcases), Andrew
Continuing practical Lloyd Webber and The Really
producers to develop new work training in all disciplines: Useful Group for development
performance projects will of The Woman In White, Bryony
pportunities to perform newly
O include contemporary Kimmings (development of A
commissioned work from prominent American scenes, Restoration Pacifist’s Guide To The War On
comedy, Sondheim musical Cancer at the National Theatre),
writers and Shakespeare tragedy, Complicité and Pink Floyd (for
stage combat and professional the producers’ showcase of The
preparation. Additional projects Wall) and Arden Productions
You will graduate with the skills to work in classical and may include Brecht, Orton and and Covent Garden Productions
Greek Theatre. Second-year (producers’ showcases).
contemporary theatre, musicals, feature film, television
students perform in the public
and radio. As an actor, you will interrogate both musical production musical alongside
The course enjoys a close
and non-musical settings ranging from Shakespeare, collaboration with the Andrew
final-year students.
Restoration comedy and American Realism to Sondheim Lloyd Webber Foundation which
generously supports the post
and the contemporary musical. Year 3 of the Andrew Lloyd Webber
We encourage and support students from a broad range Focus on professional Associate Musical Director.
of backgrounds. The BA (Hons) Acting Musical Theatre development: you will
undertake acting for camera Duration
has a variety of scholarships and bursaries to help with
(including a professional
living expenses and fees, including an Andrew Lloyd Three years, full-time,
showreel), radio training
Webber Foundation Scholarship, Pilkington Trust Hardship October start
(including a professional
Bursaries, Clare Rich Scholarship and the Chimera voice reel) and recording a Application
Scholarship. professional sung voice reel.
Michael Elcock Via UCAS, www.ucas.com
Public productions include plays,
Graduated 2018, appeared in the television series Queens Of Mystery showing in the Students are entitled to full Equity status upon graduation. Institution Code
book musicals and a newly-
US, recently starred in A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Regent’s Park Open Air commissioned musical. Recent C35
Theatre, in a word at the Young Vic and is currently rehearsing for The Visit by Tony play commissions have included
Kushner, directed by Jeremy Herrin, at the National Theatre. #DR@CULA by Bryony Lavery Course Code
and the world premiere of the W410
‘Central made me trust my instrument as an artist. Which is very important. Anyone
stage adaptation of JB Priestley’s
can be talented, but the tutors here provide you with the toolbox, which aids that talent novel Lost Empires. Examples of Course Leader
and transforms it into a craft that can be exercised, practised and moulded to fit any recent musical commissions are Wendy Gadian
character. Central’s training made me a professional actor, without me having to sacrifice I’m Afraid Of Amerikans by Joshua
the joy of theatre making. If anything, it has only enhanced it and put me in a position Val Martin, Em by Benjamin
to be surrounded by professionals, who share that passion and have also given me a Till and Through The Wire by
Award
growing empathy to connect and champion all stories told on the stage. A training that is Catherine Johnson. BA (Hons) Acting
invaluable and life changing!’ (360 credits/Level 6)
40 | Undergraduate Courses | 41You can also read
