*You will receive a Certificate of Higher Education Musical Theatre qualification on completion of this course.*
Please note that this foundation course does not form part of our BA (Hons) Musical Theatre degree and does not offer automatic progression to other degrees.
We are ranked 3rd in the UK for dance, drama and cinematics in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024, and 5th in the UK for drama and dance in the Guardian University Guide 2024. We were shortlisted for University of the Year in The Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023.
The Foundation programme in Musical Theatre aims to nurture and develop skills and techniques for those who aspire to train within either a conservatoire or higher education environment in pursuit of a career within the creative industries.
The programme, delivered over three terms, focuses on the different disciplines required of the contemporary musical theatre performer and delivers a diverse and extensive range of subjects around the following core areas:
Classes are streamed with GSA BA and MA performance programmes based on ability and knowledge.
Guidance and preparation for the selection and delivery of contemporary and classical monologues, and song repertoire choices required for auditions onto professional performance programmes. Audition technique is taught in group and one-to-one sessions.
Understanding and analysing narrative through conveying truth and circumstance within the context of music and lyrics.
Students will develop approaches and techniques to acting and text analysis through the study and practice of contemporary and classical scenes.
Skill-based classes are delivered within the programme. These will include:
- Voice
- Singing
- One to one Singing Tutorials
Workshops and masterclasses will be delivered by West End professionals and by faculty members from fellow conservatoires and other training institutions on their courses to ensure students are fully informed about the further training options available to them.
Students are offered support and guidance for the submission of applications to conservatoires and higher education institutions.
Throughout the training, students will work on Projects.
In Teaching Block 1, this starts with Ensemble Storytelling and moves onto a Text-Based Project. This could be either a Contemporary, Naturalism, or American Realism text with an internal "work in progress" sharing of selected scenes at the end of this teaching block.
In Teaching Block 2, students work on a Musical Theatre project focusing on the development of a broad range of performance skills relevant to the burgeoning musical theatre performer and putting it into practice.
To end Teaching Block 2, students will work on a one-week Acting for-camera project with an industry professional, learning the basic camera techniques and skills required for further Screen Actor training.
To finish your training, in Teaching Block 3, students will perform in a professionally supported Public Performance Project of work within one of GSA’s performance venues.
The Foundation Musical Theatre course at GSA is a stand-alone rigorous one-year intensive course that aims to nurture and develop skills and techniques to further a career in Musical Theatre. For many, it prepares students who wish to go on to train within a conservatoire or Higher Education environment successfully gaining entry to BA and MA Acting programmes. For some Graduating students, it has been a direct path of pursuing a career within the creative industries after their one-year training.
Ameer Choudrie, Programme Leader
Entry requirements
We can accept students aged 18 and over. Please bear in mind that if you are planning to progress to drama school or university after the Foundation Course you may need to have the necessary qualifications to meet their entry requirements.
GCSE English language and Mathematics at grade 4+ or above (or equivalent)
A level: CCD
If you can demonstrate exceptional talent and can satisfy the panel of your ability to successfully complete the course, you may be considered for a place irrespective of your academic background.
IELTS minimum overall: 6.5
IELTS minimum by component: 6.0
Find out more about fees and funding here.
Please note that government loans are available for this course.
Experienced staff in our International Student Office are available to help from the moment you consider studying at the University. We offer professional advice on immigration, visa issues, entry qualifications, pre-departure information, employment regulations and international student welfare.
Visit our Scholarships and Bursaries page for more details.
Auditions
Entry is also subject to successful audition. Candidates who can demonstrate exceptional talent and can satisfy the panel of their ability to complete the programme may also be considered.
For more audition information please visit AUDITIONS & INTERVIEWS
A non-refundable audition fee will be charged.