UAL Level 3 Diploma Performing and Production Arts (Musical Theatre and Dance)

Course overview

Our Level 3 Diploma in Performing and Production Arts (Musical Theatre and Dance) is an internationally recognised qualification through the University of the Arts London. It is included in the UCAS tariff and attracts tariff points for each final grade, which supports University applications.

This 1-year full-time course will introduce you to career opportunities in musical theatre and dance and push your creative potential by building acting, voice, movement, singing, dance, performance, and production skills.  With state-of-the-art facilities, including movement and rehearsal studios, aerial space and our in-house Theatre and Fringe Venue, we offer the best to start your creative journey.

 Immerse yourself in the art of performance as you gain essential experiences in professional environments and make crucial connections with theatre professionals. Theatre visits, workshops and graduate Q&As will enhance your learning throughout, and you will showcase your developing skills in performance opportunities throughout the year. 

This practical course is centred around projects aimed at nurturing and enhancing your performance skills.  Students in this course will collaborate with other students across the Performing Arts Studio Scotland.

At Performing Arts Studio Scotland (PASS), we have amazing spaces to help you learn and create. These include the modern PASS Studio Theatre, eight dance and rehearsal studios, special classrooms, and a high-tech library and learning centre. You’ll find everything you need to bring your creative ideas to life!

PASS is in the heart of Edinburgh, known as the world’s Festival City. We work closely with top theatres, companies, and artists. These partnerships give you excellent chances to perform, join creative projects, and learn from real industry professionals.

For more information, please follow us on:

Instagram:  @passmusicaltheatre @passdance

A practical course designed to support you in realising and achieving your performance potential through project-based working. Please see an overview of your units and the projects you will be working towards.

Project 1 - Technique and Performance (Units 1,2,3, and 4)

• UNIT 1-Principles of performance
• UNIT 2- Engaging with an audience
• UNIT 3- Introduction to professional practice
• UNIT 4-Critical and Contextual Awareness

Project 2 - Performance Skills and Context (Units 5,6, and 7)

• UNIT 5- Production Skills and Context
• UNIT 6-Performance Skills and Context
• UNIT 7- Preparation for specialist study

Project 3 - Collaborative Performance Project (Unit 8)

• UNIT 8- Collaborative performance project

How the course is assessed

• Recorded class discussions and presentations
• Rehearsal and Live performances 
• Production process evidence - Research
• Digital and or written portfolio 
• Evaluation

Number of days per week

• 3 days per week plus self-directed study outside assigned College hours.
• Please note that during rehearsals, you may be asked to attend additional hours; you will be notified in advance of timetable changes.

Entry requirements

The following is required:

• Nat 5 Qualification or equivalent
• A strong personal statement with a desire to make a career in the performing arts. 
• You must be committed to participating in a full-time course.
• Entry will be based on a practical audition where we look for potential, commitment, energy and focus.
• You will be required to participate in dance, acting and singing classes to build your skills. 

Essential Skills:

• Communication - verbally and digitally
• Collaborative skills - working in groups, pairs and with students from other courses
• Working Independently - class tasks, homework, assessments
• Confidence - presentations in groups and independently
• Creativity and Empathy – group and project-based learning and working
• Critical and Creative Thinking – problem solving and innovation
• Initiative and self-motivation – contribution, leadership, responsibility, being proactive

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

Your audition will be in 3 sections to ensure you are allowed to showcase your skill set for this course:

Section 1 - Song

• Candidates are required to perform the verse and chorus of a musical theatre song (max. 2 mins). Please ensure you know your song to make the most of your performance. 

Section 2 – Monologue

• You will be required to perform an acting monologue lasting 1-2 minutes in length, which should be from a contemporary published play or musical from 1990 onwards.
• This monologue should be in your own accent. It is advisable to choose something suitable for your age and that appeals to a varied audience.
• We are looking for potential, not perfection, so please do your best. 

Section 3 – Dance Workshop

• You will participate in a technique class that incorporates a range of dance techniques. We recommend wearing dancewear or sports clothing that allows you to move easily, tying long hair up, and wearing appropriate footwear, and removing any jewellery.

Stage 3: Interview. 

• You will be interviewed by two members of the Musical Theatre or Dance faculty, who will ask you a series of questions to further assess your suitability for the course. 

Practical Audition Dates

• Granton Campus Dates TBC

English Proficiency Requirements

Progression and Articulation Routes

Progression routes at PASS onto HND Level Courses:

• HND Acting and Performance 
• HND Musical Theatre 
• HND Dance Artist
• HND Technical Theatre

Career options

• Musical Theatre Performer
• Dancer
• Actor
• Singer 
• Teacher
• Performing Artist in commercial theatres, holiday camps, pantomimes, etc