Training in cultural policy and management: international ... - Encatc

De Montfort University
Phone: (01234) 793 347 or (01234) 793 279
Fax: (01234) 793 277;
Email: rbrannen@dmu.ac.uk or Bed-admissions@dmu.ac.uk
Programme(s) and qualification(s)
Profiles: United Kingdom
Performing Arts
HND/BA Honours (single)
Mode: Full-time Part-time
UCAS Code: HND: 234W; BA: W431
Content
Performing Arts is offered as a single honours BA course (3 years full-time) and a Higher National
Diploma course (2 Years full-time). For these two courses all the modules you take are concerned with
your knowledge and performance practice of dance and theatre. Many students successfully transfer
from the HND to BA programmes.
The study of Performing Arts (Dance and Theatre) focuses upon contemporary practice. Courses draw
upon current developments towards the integration of Dance and Theatre practically and theoretically
and challenge traditional perceptions of the two as separate disciplines. All students participate in
production work, both tutor-led and as a company, with increasing responsibility for artistic decision
making and management. This central performance work is supported by modules which deal with
performance skills, theoretical understanding and the application of technique and knowledge in a
variety of contexts.
Performing Arts courses at Bedford are strongly supported by the performance programme at the
campus-based Bowen West Theatre, which stages new theatre and dance productions throughout the
year. The exciting range of work presented at the theatre by professional companies continually
provides references for study and frequently the opportunity to work with professional practitioners.
Students benefit enormously from performing their work within this professional theatre environment.
A large and newly refurbished Dance Studio also provides an exciting performance venue.
Bedford Corn Exchange plays host to other theatre, music and comedy events, whilst the arts in
London, Cambridge and the Midlands are easily accessible. The team includes staff with professional
experience as performers, choreographers, artistic directors, theatre managers and administrators.
Staff publications in recent years include books, articles and plays. Involvement in performing arts
practice and research means that staff expertise remains contemporary and relevant. Areas of
expertise include; interdisciplinary performance, physical theatre, cultural theory, the politics of
performance, contemporary playwrights, experimental British theatre, contact improvisation and
choreographic practice.
Teaching/Assessment:
A wide range of teaching methods are employed. They emphasise the importance of practical
investigation whilst understanding theoretical concerns which support this practice. The balance of
practice to theory depends upon the modules you choose to take. Most involve both practical and
theoretical. Each assessed performance is supported by written work. The HND course places greater
emphasis upon the practical. There are no written examinations for either course.
Duration
HND - 2 years full-time, 4 years part-time. BA - 3 years full-time, 6 years part-time.
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