drama course information booklet

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Drama 5 Mary Street (PO Box 534) Drummoyne NSW 1470 Sydney, Australia Tel: 61 2 9819 8888

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2012 Drama Course Information Booklet

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Page 1: Drama Course Information Booklet

Drama

5 Mary Street (PO Box 534)

Drummoyne NSW 1470

Sydney, AustraliaTel: 61 2 9819 8888Fax: 61 2 9719 1714

Email: [email protected]

Web: www.wi.edu.auCRICOS Code

02664K

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ABN 50 360 319 774

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© Wesley Institute 2012

Wesley Institute is a registered Higher Education Provider under the NSW Higher Education Act and the Commonwealth Higher Education Support Act, and approved to provide courses to international students. The Institute offers Masters in Counselling, Education, Leadership and Ethics, Music, and Theology; Graduate Diplomas in Counselling, Education, and Theology; Bachelors in Dance, Drama, Graphic Design, Music and Theology; Associate Degrees in Dance, Graphic Design, Music and Theology; and a Diploma in Drama. Courses are accredited with the NSW Department of Education and Training, and approved for FEE-HELP, Youth Allowance, Austudy and Abstudy for eligible students.+ Wesley Institute is an International Affiliate of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, and offers a studies abroad program for the 110 member universities and colleges in the USA.

All information in this publication is correct at 31 May 2012 but is subject to change without notice. Wesley Institute reserves the right to change the content of any unit of study, or to withdraw any unit or course of study it offers, or to impose limitations on enrolment in any unit or course of study.

+Austudy and Youth Allowance are not available for the Master of Music.3

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ContentsIntroduction................................................................................5

Industry Compatibility........................................................6Hollywood Placement.........................................................7Teaching Pathways.............................................................7

Bachelor of Dramatic Art............................................................8Diploma of Dramatic Art.............................................................9

Performance Major...........................................................10Production Major...............................................................11Theatre Practice Major......................................................12Drama Electives................................................................13

Admission.................................................................................13Educational Requirements................................................13Artistic Requirements.......................................................14

Credit........................................................................................15Assessment...............................................................................16Further Study............................................................................16Tuition Assurance.....................................................................16Unit Descriptions......................................................................17Academic Staff..........................................................................21Fees..........................................................................................22

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IntroductionWesley Institute promotes and fosters quality in teaching and learning through the implementation of our vision, mission and institutional values, and their integration in all aspects of institutional life and culture.Vision:Transforming lives through excellence in Christian higher education.Mission: Wesley Institute benefits our community as we equip people to live godly lives in influential vocations. We seek to fulfil this mission by integrating rigorous scholarship, and professional and spiritual development, in excellent higher education.Values:All our activities are informed and underpinned by five core values:- Christian faith in action- Education informed by scholarship and creativity- Lifelong learning- Responsible stewardship- Integration.

In actively pursuing our mission, Wesley Institute commits to the following:• courses and learning resources of high quality and standing, as

determined by regulatory authorities, expert advisors, staff and students.

• curriculum and modes of delivery structured so as to maximise student access to learning opportunities and support without compromising quality or equity.

• a nurturing and safe teaching and learning environment for staff and students grounded in Christian faith and academic integrity.

• a focus on the achievement of our graduate attributes, student satisfaction, course completions and career relevance.

Wesley Institute is one of only three Australian institutions to offer the prestigious Bachelor of Dramatic Art. 

This degree provides an extensive introduction to all the major aspects of theatre. The course offers three strands of specialisation: performance, production and theatre practice. Each strand is skill-oriented, emphasising rigorous training in the areas appropriate to the specialisation being pursued. Each curriculum is specifically designed to provide the skills, experiences, opportunities, and professional expertise necessary for a career in theatre. There are a number of specialist units available, as well as a wide range of electives, including a Hollywood placement (see below).

Operating within the context of the Christian community, the course includes an integrative studies stream designed to enhance integration between the creative arts, faith and artistic endeavour.

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The Bachelor of Dramatic Art features a blend of theoretical and practical learning. In the more practical classes, students gain skills and experience, reflect, analyse and draw theoretical conclusions, and then test and refine those conclusions in further practical work. In the more theoretical areas, such as history, students are directed into self-study, careful documentation and research, and presentation of their research in class. The Institute environment features an emphasis on collaboration and teamwork.

The course is flexible enough to allow changes of emphasis according to the needs of a particular group or individual, and the context is always that of theatre-making.

Exiting the degree course after completing the first two years study load entitles a student to the award of Diploma.

The School of Drama at Wesley Institute is a centre of excellence in training that provides performing arts tuition of the highest calibre in accordance with industry standards. The Bachelor of Dramatic Art is offered on the Drummoyne campus in facilities that provide for every aspect of training, production and performance. With a theatre, studios, classrooms, wardrobe, dressing rooms, and technical equipment for lighting, sound, video editing and recording, the School of Drama offers you the opportunity for competence in all aspects of stagecraft.

As a drama student you would be expected to be an active participant within a variety of structured learning processes. Classes become learning communities that encourage you to develop into a self-directed, self-motivated learner. You will apply the theories presented in lectures to your workshops and practical classes, and consolidate the technical skills you learn in classes through regular performance opportunities of many kinds. Your achievements will be assessed using a variety of educational tasks like essays, presentations, reflections, performances, quizzes, reviews, critiques, production tasks, analyses and projects. And, of course, the Gordon Moyes Library will give you access to extensive specialist print collections, online databases and audiovisual facilities, as well as computing labs with free internet access.

Industry CompatibilityCompetition for employment within the professional performing arts environment is exceptionally fierce. In order to ensure optimal success for graduates entering the professional arena, the School of Drama annually reviews the student’s industry compatibility. Performance and Production majors complete studies on an invitation basis, dependent on grade averages accrued at the end of each year. If student grades fall below the minimum requirement they are offered a position in the generalist stream - the Theatre Practice major. This prepares students for the realities of the industry, and assists them to find suitable arts-related vocations compatible with their skills.

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At the end of the first year it is anticipated Performance majors will attain a credit average in each of the core vocational studies of Acting, Movement and Voice. By the end of the second year students should retain a “credit plus” average in these same units. Where there is an inconsistency between the grades for these three areas, the Performance Practice units will also be considered.

At the end of the first year it is anticipated Production majors will attain a credit grade in each of the core vocational studies of Introduction to Production, Introduction to Drama, and Studio I and II. By the end of the second year students should retain a “credit plus” average in the core production units of Stage Management, Lighting Design and Operation, Sound Design and Operation, Video Production, and Theatre Management. Where there is an inconsistency between the grades, the Production Practice units will also be considered.

Hollywood PlacementWe are excited to offer, as a part of your degree, a world-class industry experience, in Hollywood, Los Angeles!

Go to LA, the acting capital of the world, and study amongst people who have excelled in the industry. Gain firsthand experience as you work on your craft five days a week, in an intense and concentrated environment, sharpening your commitment, passion and suitability for life as an actor.

Endorsed by five-time Oscar winner Sydney Pollack, the LA program is second to none. You’ll develop skills in script analysis and cold reads, learn all about the business side of Hollywood, and meet agents, directors and producers as part of your studies. The program includes:

10 weeks intensive training in The Acting Corps technique©

The “Business of the Business” tutorials Airfare and accommodation for up to three months Exclusive meetings, industry conferences and networking

opportunities Studio tours, attendance at theatrical productions and more.

FEE-HELP is available for eligible students in the Bachelor of Dramatic Art. If you wantto grasp a once in a lifetime opportunity to study under international industry leaders, then this unique program is for you.

Pathways to TeachingIf teaching is your career of choice, you can add Wesley Institute’s two-year Master of Teaching (Primary) or one-year Graduate Diploma of Education (Secondary) to your Bachelor of Dramatic Art to qualify as a teacher in Australian primary or secondary schools. These postgraduate

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degrees are delivered online, with supervised teaching placements in local schools for maximum convenience.

If secondary Drama teaching is your goal, you can use your bachelor electives to study a second teaching area (e.g. Music, Dance, English). With two teaching methods, you would be very well placed to find employment as a secondary teacher.

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Bachelor of Dramatic Art• Course Code: WDR11• Credit Points: 144• Number of Units: 40-41• Duration: 3 years full-time; up to 6 years part-time• Student Workload: 40 hours per week (full-time)• Delivery Mode: On campus studies

The Bachelor of Dramatic Art is a specialised degree with three strands leading to a range of employment outcomes. It offers a theatre arts education in a dynamic creative arts environment, complementing and being enriched by on-campus endeavours in music, dance and graphic design degrees, and undergirded by Christian values and worldview.

Performance MajorGraduates of the degree with a performance major should demonstrate consistent competence and confidence in all aspects of stagecraft. Their acting will normally display considerable expressive and interpretive skills and an intelligent creativity. They will have developed an appreciation of major theatrical genres, and a high degree of professionalism in their own practice.

The course prepares actors to compete in the highly rigorous theatre industry. Acting, voice and movement skills are developed throughout the degree, with students engaging with the theory and practice of these and other elements of the theatrical arts. Students gradually increase their understanding and practical experience of these elements, develop connections, and create new synergies as they gain skills and experience on-stage and on-camera. In addition, students gain the confidence and expertise needed to generate their own work and to work successfully within a theatre company. Of course the other popular career path is into teaching drama

Production MajorGraduates of the degree with a production major should demonstrate consistent competence and confidence in all aspects of production, and skills of a high calibre in one area of specialisation. Their work will normally be characterised by such qualities as technical proficiency, independent creativity and an experiential understanding of performance. They will have developed an appreciation of major theatrical genres, and a high degree of professionalism in their own practice.The theatre, film and television industries offer opportunities for skilled practitioners to be employed in a variety of ways, e.g. as stage managers, production managers, directors, technical directors, writers and educators. In addition, new opportunities are opening up within the Christian community for creative ministers, festival producers, and church drama

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directors. The production degree provides an intellectual and artistic foundation for professional careers in these areas. Students receive extensive practical and theoretical training in many aspects of theatre production and direction with a major focus in one area of specialisation, together with regular production opportunities.

Theatre Practice MajorGraduates of the degree with a theatre practice major should demonstrate competence and confidence in both acting and theatre production. They will have developed an appreciation of major theatrical genres, and a high degree of professionalism in their own practice.

Graduates of the degree with the theatre practice major would be well positioned to take up a variety of support roles in the theatre. Skills in both performance and production would enable graduates to initiate and run a small theatre company, thus generating their own work. Graduates would also be well positioned to run drama ministry groups and productions within their churches. It is also the ideal preparation for a career in teaching.

Diploma of Dramatic Art(nested within Bachelor of Dramatic Art)• Course Code: WDR01• Credit Points: 96• Number of Units: 30• Duration: 2 years full-time; up to 4 years part-time• Student Workload: 40 hours per week (full-time)• Delivery Mode: On campus studies

The Diploma of Dramatic Art is a higher education qualification embedded in the bachelor degree, requiring the completion of the first two years bachelor course work. The learning outcomes of the diploma course ensure that a graduate will demonstrate understanding of a broad knowledge base incorporating theoretical concepts, with substantial depth in the area of drama. Graduates will be able to apply theoretical concepts, and technical and creative skills, to a range of situations. They will have the ability to participate in development of strategic initiatives, and will be able to work cooperatively or autonomously as appropriate. They will demonstrate a well-developed ability to research, analyse and evaluate information, and to plan approaches to technical and management problems.

Diploma graduates should demonstrate skills in both acting and theatre production. They will have developed an appreciation of major theatrical

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genres, and a commitment to professionalism in their own practice. They would be well positioned to take up a variety of support roles in the theatre from performance to production or to run drama ministry groups and productions within their churches. Many graduates of the Institute’s diploma have moved into related fields requiring creative or public speaking abilities.

Performance MajorBACHELOR

Performance Theoretical Context Production Personal & Professional

DevelopmentElective

BACHELOR144 cp93 cp 21 cp 6 cp 15 cp 9 cp

Performance Units (credit points = cp) Theoretical Context Units Acting I-V (3); Acting VI (6) Theatre History I-IV (3)Movement I-VI (3) Introduction to Drama (3)Voice I-VI (3) Introduction to Production (3)Performance Practice A (3); B-E (6) Drama Pedagogy (3)Performance Project (9)

Production Units Personal and Professional Development Units Studio I-II (3)

Faith and the Contemporary Artist I-V (3)Elective Units

Units from other drama majors or other degrees

NESTED DIPLOMA

Performance Theoretical Context Production Personal & Professional

DevelopmentElective

DIPLOMA96 cp51 cp 18 cp 6 cp 12 cp 9 cp

A typical program for a full-time student with a PERFORMANCE MAJOR follows.

YEAR 1

Semester 1

Acting I Movement I Voice I

Theatre History I Theatre History II Introduction to Production

Studio I Faith and the Contemporary Artist I

Semester 2

Acting II Movement II Voice II

Theatre History III Theatre History IV Introduction to Drama

Studio II Faith and the Contemporary Artist II

YEAR 2

Semester 1

Acting III Movement III Voice III Performance Practice A Performance Practice B

Elective Faith and the Contemporary Artist III

Semester 2

Acting IV Movement IV Voice IV Performance Practice C

Electives

Faith and the Contemporary Artist IV

OPTIONAL EXIT DIPLOMA OF DRAMATIC ART

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YEAR 3

Semester 1

Acting V Movement V Voice V Performance Practice D Performance Practice E

Faith and the Contemporary Artist V

Semester 2

Acting VI Movement VI Voice VI Performance Project

Drama Pedagogy

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Production MajorBACHELOR

Performance Theoretical Context Production Personal & Professional

DevelopmentElective

BACHELOR144 cp18 cp 21 cp 63 cp 15 cp 27 cp

Performance Units (credit points = cp) Production Units Acting I-II (3) Studio I-II (3)Movement I-II (3) Stage Management (3)Voice I-II (3) Set Design (3)

Lighting Design and Operation (3)Theoretical Context Units Sound Design and Operation (3)

Theatre History I-IV (3) Video Production (3)Introduction to Drama (3) Directing I (3)Introduction to Production (3) Theatre Management (3)Drama Pedagogy (3) Production Practice A (3); B-E (6)

Production Project (9)Personal and Professional Development Units (cp)

Faith and the Contemporary Artist I-V (3) Elective Units Units from other drama majors or other degrees

NESTED DIPLOMA

Performance Theoretical Context Production Personal & Professional

Development Elective DIPLOMA96 cp18 cp 24 cp 30 cp 12 cp 12 cp

A typical program for a full-time student with a PRODUCTION MAJOR follows.

YEAR 1

Semester 1

Acting I Movement I Voice I

Theatre History I Theatre History II Introduction to Production

Studio I Faith and the Contemporary Artist I

Semester 2

Acting II Movement II Voice II

Theatre History III Theatre History IV Introduction to Drama

Studio II Faith and the Contemporary Artist II

YEAR 2

Semester 1

Elective Stage ManagementSet Design Lighting Design and OperationProduction Practice A Production Practice B

Faith and the Contemporary Artist III

Semester 2Electives Video Production

Directing I Production Practice C

Faith and the Contemporary Artist IV

OPTIONAL EXIT DIPLOMA OF DRAMATIC ART

YEAR 3 Semester 1

Electives Sound Design and Operation Production Practice D Production Practice E

Faith and the Contemporary Artist V

Semester 2 Electives Drama Pedagogy Theatre Management Production Project

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Theatre Practice MajorBACHELOR

Performance Theoretical Context Production Personal & Professional

Development Elective BACHELOR144 cp21-48 cp 21 cp 30-57 cp 15 cp 30 cp

Performance Units (credit points = cp) Theoretical Context Units Acting I-III (3) Theatre History I-IV (3)Movement I-II (3) Introduction to Drama (3)Voice I-II (3) Introduction to Production (3)Performance Practice A (3); B-E (6) Drama Pedagogy (3)

Production Units Personal and Professional Development Units Studio I-II (3) Faith and the Contemporary Artist I-V (3)Stage Management (3)Video Production (3) Elective Units Directing I (3) Two units from the design group, plus units fromScript Writing (3) other majors or other Institute degreesTheatre Management (3) Production Practice A (3); B-E (6)Theatre Project (9)

NESTED DIPLOMA

Performance Theoretical Context Production Personal & Professional

Development Elective DIPLOMA96 cp21-36 cp 18 cp 15-30cp 12 cp 15 cp

A typical program for a full-time student with a THEATRE PRACTICE MAJOR follows.

YEAR 1

Semester 1Acting I Movement I Voice I

Theatre History I Theatre History II Introduction to Production

Studio I Faith and the Contemporary Artist I

Semester 2Acting II Movement II Voice II

Theatre History III Theatre History IV Introduction to Drama

Studio II Faith and the Contemporary Artist II

YEAR 2 Semester 1

Acting III Electives Performance/Production Practice A Performance/Production Practice B

Stage Management

Faith and the Contemporary Artist III

Semester 2 Electives Performance/Production Practice C

Video Production Directing I

Faith and the Contemporary Artist IV

OPTIONAL EXIT DIPLOMA OF DRAMATIC ART

YEAR 3

Semester 1 Electives Performance/Production Practice D Production/Production Practice E

Script Writing Faith and the Contemporary Artist V

Semester 2Electives Drama Pedagogy Theatre

ManagementTheatre Project

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Drama ElectivesThe Drama degree offers the flexibility to further tailor the studies toward individual interest and skills. Students may choose units from another specialist strand to complement their core units, and so develop a pathway that leads to a desired outcome. Students can also select units from any of the Institute’s other Bachelor degrees. The following Drama electives are regularly offered:

Industry Placement (the Hollywood placement is a regular option)Acting ShakespeareDirecting IITheatre InternshipTheatre SecondmentLighting Design and OperationSound Design and OperationSet DesignCostume Design.

AdmissionThe annual course intake is in February. Application closing dates are published on the website (http://www.wi.edu.au/how-to-apply). Applicants are encouraged to apply early as places are limited. Wesley Institute is committed to ethical and responsible student recruitment. The application process requires the submission of documents verifying that the student has met the entry requirements for the course. Each applicant is auditioned and interviewed by a panel comprising members of the drama faculty, using standard assessment processes and forms. As well as satisfying the educational and artistic entry requirements listed below, applicants also need to satisfy an interview panel that they have the personal qualities of maturity and motivation necessary for success in tertiary studies. The panel’s recommendation is reviewed and approved by the Admissions Committee.

Educational RequirementsAn applicant will be considered for admission under any of the following categories:A. Matriculation. Successful completion of the NSW Higher School

Certificate or equivalent.B. Other tertiary studies. Successful completion of an accredited tertiary

course. C. Adult entry. An applicant of 21 years or over who has satisfied the

artistic entry requirements may be admitted with provisional status if the Admissions Committee determines that such applicant has attained a standard of education and experience adequate for entry to the course and has the aptitude required for undertaking the course.

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Provisional status will normally be converted to full candidature on successful completion of one semester of full-time studies.

D. International applicants. In addition to satisfying the education requirements above, applicants whose qualifying studies were completed in a language other than English will be required to demonstrate English proficiency equivalent to the overall minimum score of 6.0 in the IELTS Academic test. Test score equivalencies for alternative tests are provided below.

IELTS SCORE Band 6.0 6.5 7.0 7.5 8.0 Test of English as a Foreign Language internet based Test (TOEFL iBT) 60 79 94 102 110

PTE Academic 50 58 65 73 79 Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) from Cambridge ESOL test scores 52 58 67 74 80

Artistic RequirementsApplicants are expected to have some drama and theatre experience in school, church, community theatre or workshops. Acceptance is by interview and audition. The interview gives applicants opportunity to discuss past performance and/or production experience. The audition determines current and potential acting ability. Assessment criteria for auditions are as follows:A. Evidence of prior training and/or experience in one or more forms of

dramatic expression.B. Demonstrated ability or recognisable potential of performance

candidates to communicate by voice, movement and empathic identification with another.

C. Evidence of self-motivation, artistic creativity, self-discipline and an enquiring mind.

D. Demonstration of willingness to be trained and disciplined as a theatre artist.

AUDITIONSThe audition for the 2013 intake will be made up of several elements, as follows.

Performance Major Performance of two contrasting 2-3 minute monologues showing

understanding of characterisation, movement and vocal techniques, and staging. The applicant may be asked to perform the excerpt in different ways to ascertain flexibility and capacity to take direction.

An improvisation exercise.

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An improvisation exercise. Presentation of a portfolio of work in one or more of the production

areas (set design, lighting design, sound design, costume design, directing, etc). Applicants who do not have a portfolio of previous work are asked to create and present a design in any of the production areas for Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

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Theatre Practice Major One 2-3 minute monologue memorised and performed, showing

understanding of characterisation, movement and vocal techniques, and staging. The applicant may be asked to perform the excerpt in different ways to ascertain flexibility and capacity to take direction.

An improvisation exercise. Presentation of a portfolio or other documentation of production work

(set design, lighting design, sound design, costume design, directing, etc). Applicants who do not have a portfolio of previous work are asked to create and present a design in any of the production areas for Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Monologues must be fully memorised and chosen from published plays. They should show the applicant’s ability and present characters relatively close to the applicant’s own age. Performance applicants should choose contrasting pieces, for example a comedy and a drama, or a Shakespearean piece and a modern work. Material taken from films or television, or material written by the applicant, should not be used for the audition.

International or interstate students may submit an audition DVD accompanied by a written description of previous dramatic experience. Scholarship auditions are held on campus, and cannot be presented by video.

For any questions about the audition, please contact:Phone (02) 9819 8888 Email: [email protected]

CreditWesley Institute is committed to the dual principles of maintaining high academic standards that are at least equivalent to those current in Australian universities, and providing the shortest possible pathways to the desired award by the recognition of prior learning wherever this is consistent with these standards.

Students accepted into the Bachelor or Diploma of Dramatic Art may apply for credit transfer on the basis of equivalent studies completed prior to their admission. Studies undertaken at registered tertiary institutions may be considered for transfer credit where they have reasonable correspondence to coursework units in the Institute’s courses.

Students may also apply for RPL credit on the basis of skills and knowledge achieved outside the formal education and training system. The following standards are consulted in the assessment of any prior learning, as appropriate:a. The AQF National Principles and Operational Guidelines for Recognition

of Prior Learning.

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b. The AQF National Guidelines on Cross-Sectoral Qualification Linkages.c. The Universities Australia Policy Guidelines on Cross-Sector

Qualification Linkages.

Credit and RPL credit for previous study may be awarded up to a maximum of one third of the course requirements, or 48 credit points in the bachelor degree and 32 credit points in the diploma.

Applicants who are currently enrolled in an equivalent bachelor degree course with a peer provider and wish to finish their studies for the degree qualification at Wesley Institute may be considered for credit of up to two thirds of the Bachelor of Dramatic Art requirements, or the equivalent of the first two years course load (96 credit points). Similarly, those currently enrolled in an equivalent diploma in drama wishing to transfer to Wesley Institute to finish their studies for the diploma qualification may be considered for credit of up to two thirds of the course requirements (64 credit points).

AssessmentUnits are assessed on the basis of varied tasks presented during the semester. Generally there would be three assessment tasks for each unit, which may include performances, productions and examinations. Units are graded according to a standard higher education grading scale published in the Student Handbook and in each course unit outline.

In all units, students must complete and submit all assessment tasks to achieve a passing grade. In some units the passing of critical assessment tasks is an additional qualifier to a passing grade.

Further StudyGraduates of the Bachelor of Dramatic Art may expect to be admitted to a masters course in theatre studies or related discipline in a university. Those wishing to pursue primary school teaching will need to complete the two-year Master of Teaching (Primary). Preparation for secondary drama teaching requires the addition of the one-year Graduate Diploma of Education (Secondary) with a drama teaching method. Those considering secondary teaching can also pursue a second teaching method at Wesley Institute, increasing their employment options. Both the teaching qualifications are offered online for maximum convenience.

Tuition AssuranceTo protect students in the event that Wesley Institute ceases to provide a course of study, the Institute has tuition assurance through its membership of the Australian Council for Private Education and Training

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(ACPET) Tuition Assurance Schemes for Australian and international students. For details please see Tuition Assurance.

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Unit DescriptionsActing I-VI DRBA101-306 3 or 6 credit pointsThis series of units introduces students to a range of acting approaches and techniques which students put into practice in acting classes and Institute productions. The initial focus is upon freeing and developing the students’ imaginations and liberating their senses through observation and improvisation. Students are taught to work together as an ensemble. Later studies focus on theatrical text as revelation of character and situation, and explore various styles of performance including realistic, expressionistic, epic and acting for camera. Acting I-VI acts as the spine of the core drama subjects

Acting Shakespeare DRBA243 3 credit pointsThis unit aims to provide students with a broad base of knowledge and skills in Shakespearean acting methodology. Students will explore several Shakespearean texts in various genres with regard to both historical and modern performance practices. The unit culminates with an ensemble performance of a portion of one of the works of Shakespeare.

Costume Design DRBA358 3 credit points 12 credit points Prerequisite: Performance IIAn historical overview covers the relationship between period costume and theatrical costume. Students gain an understanding of costume, wigs, and make-up as a vital contribution to the transformation of an actor into a character in time and place. Practical and design considerations are explored and related to current shows.

Directing I DRBA254 3 credit pointsThis unit combines theory with practical work. An historical overview of the rise of the director introduces students to the specific functions of the theatre director. Students then learn to approach a text from a directorial point of view. They are instructed in the detailed analysis of text, the development of a directorial concept, the liaison with designers and production personnel, and various approaches to rehearsal. In Directing I students direct monologues and scenes from plays.

Directing II DRBA355 6 credit pointsIn Directing II each student will act as assistant director for a substantial public performance.

Drama Pedagogy DRBA353 3 credit pointsThis unit is both theoretical and practical. It begins with an historical overview of the use and power of drama as an educative medium. Students explore Theatre in Education, Creative Dramatics, Forum Theatre techniques, and Drama Therapy. Consideration is given to Drama in the

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Curriculum, with particular reference to the Yr 7-12 Drama Syllabus. The practical component teaches students to design, run and analyse various kinds of workshops.

Faith and the Contemporary Artist I-V INBE101-305 3 credit points The integrated curriculum in this sequence of units is designed to facilitate an intellectual and spiritual journey for students. It commences with a foundational unit assisting students in their transition into higher education with its foundations of integrity and Christian values. An overview of the New and Old Testament Scriptures provides a platform for understanding the Christian faith, and students will consider a variety of issues including the dialogue between theology and creativity, and between the arts and cultural studies.

Industry Placement DRBA271 12 credit points Industry Placement provides students with the opportunity to consolidate skills and knowledge gained in previous degree studies through extended participation in a professional practice setting. It also assists students to develop industry contacts and networks, hence opening potential employment pathways into the performing arts industry. Placements typically entail working with an established production company or recognised industry practitioner, or participation in a supervised industry-based program of research specific to creative and/or performing arts vocations. The Acting Core Industry Placement in Hollywood* is a regular option. Industry Placement promotes lifelong learning through “real world” applications, and critical thinking is central to learning outcomes. It is only open to students demonstrating serious intent with respect to their participation in the unit. Such intent will be ascertained in the context of a rigorous selection process.

Introduction to Drama DRBA152 3 credit points Students learn the distinctive features of Drama as an artistic medium. They learn to explore plays as blueprints for a performance event. They develop analytical skills that enable them to discern information concerning aspects of characterisation, dramatic action, appropriate staging and relationship to an audience. Studio practices form an important part of this unit. The unit also includes the critique of professional productions and the staging of an excerpt from a play.

Introduction to Production DRBA152 3 credit points Students gain a basic understanding of the internal structure and administration of a professional theatre company. They learn about the specific functions of key members of a production team, including the artistic director, production manager, technical director, stage manager, set, lighting and costume designers, house manager and publicity manager. Students will also participate in a program of studio practices and simulation exercises.

Lighting Design and Operation DRBA261 3 credit points

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A study of the fundamentals of lighting design from concept to production. Class work includes both theory and practical projects. Students are required to complete a lighting design for one of the Institute productions which may be drawn from the schools of dance, drama or music.

Movement I-VI DRBA121-326 3 credit points This series of units aims to liberate the student actor into confident access to an extensive physical vocabulary of posture, gesture and movement. Units explore movement from the perspective of the actor as revelation of motivated characters in action and space. Initial units cover Laban, Chekhov, neutral and character masks, while the advanced units introduce students to the heightened and specialised physical demands of Suzuki and Commedia Del Arte.* The tuition fee for this unit includes travel expenses and accommodation. Eligible students may have access to FEE-HELP for the tuition costs of this unit of study, but FEE-HELP is not available for incidental costs, e.g. travel insurance, visa costs, travel to and from Sydney airport.

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Performance Practice A-E DRBA238-342 3 or 6 credit pointsPerformance Practice represents the performance output of Acting III-V, Voice III-V and Movement III-V. Students workshop, rehearse, promote and perform works from the theatre canon or self-devised works. Particular attention is given to the links between the skills areas and students’ development as complete performers. Emphasis falls on the need to develop a depth and breadth of understanding of performance.

Performance Project DRBA373 9 credit pointsStudents will perform a major work in their final semester at graduation level. The purpose is to fully integrate and implement the skills that have been learned during the preceding five semesters and consolidate individual performance process under the supervision of a professional director. Performance Project also provides a platform for industry exposure through networking with invited industry representatives.

Production Practice A-E DRBA29-394 3 or 6 credit pointsThis represents the practical application of skills developed in the range of production classes. Students take on a key production role for a performance, working with the performance students and director. This role can be in stage management, lighting, sound, set or costumes. Students who have completed Stage Management must do practical stage management in one of the Production Practice units.

Production Project DRBA372 9 credit pointsIn their final semester students will complete a major project, specialising in one area of production. The purpose is to fully integrate and implement the skills that have been learned during the preceding five semesters and consolidate individual production process under the supervision of theatre professionals. Production Project also provides a platform for industry exposure through networking with invited industry representatives.

Script Writing DRBA383 3 credit pointsThis unit introduces students to the dynamics and major elements of successfully scripting playable dramatic action. Subjects include characterisation, action, dialogue, sub-text, genre and style, structure and scene construction, and audience-stage relationships. Students acquire skills in analysis and critique of contemporary texts, and develop, through writing exercises, the ability to express their own ideas in dramatic form.

Set Design DRBA260 3 credit pointsAn historical overview covers the development of theatre stages and the study of significant productions in the evolution of set design. Students learn the component parts of creating a stage environment that heightens the impact of the performance. They will explore development of the

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concept, fundamentals of design, and communication through plans and model making.

Sound Design and Operation DRBA262 3 credit pointsA study of the fundamentals of sound design from concept to production. Class work includes both theory and practical projects. Students are required to complete a sound design for one of the Institute productions which may be drawn from the schools of dance, drama or music.

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Stage Management DRBA257 3 credit pointsStudents learn the various and vital contributions a stage manager brings to the production team. These include an understanding of audition procedures, preparation of rehearsal schedules, creation of the Prompt Book, delegation of responsibilities to assistants, and procedures for running each performance. After completing Stage Management students must do practical stage management in one of the Production Practice units.

Studio I-II DRBA147-148 3 credit pointsThese practical units enable students to gain understanding and experience of theatre etiquette and expectations, and of many production processes, including aspects of set construction, scenic painting, property construction, costume creation, light and sound operations. Studio also gives students a sound knowledge of the elements of staging and their practical applications.

Theatre History I-IV DRBA131-234 3 credit points The Theatre History strand explores the conventions of and influences on theatre through various periods. The cycle of units commences with Origins of Drama and carries through to the 18th Century and Modern Theatre. Two units focus on the development of theatre in light of physical presentation, technological advancement, cultural traditions and performance techniques, whilst a further two units focus on textual analysis. Specific consideration is given to performance style, the traditional performance space, and dramaturgical considerations.

Theatre Internship DRBA393 6 credit pointsStudents may undertake work on a production that involves greater depth of involvement than is generally realised in a production subject or production practice. This unit demands the choice of a specific role, e.g. Stage Manager or Assistant Director, and completion of this role on a major production within the Institute or externally. It will usually be undertaken in collaboration with an industry professional such as guest director, and the nature of the internship must be negotiated with the Head of School and the relevant staff member. Students are specifically supported to utilise the Theatre Internship for Drama Ministry.

Theatre Management DRBA359 3 credit pointsThis unit focuses on the specific roles and functions of key administrative and artistic personnel in a professional theatre company. These include: producer, artistic director, administrator, business manager, literary manager/dramaturge, marketing, public relations and development, and voice consultant. Students are encouraged to consider possible career options in these areas, and they explore the necessity and possibility of further specialist training.

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Theatre Project DRBA374 9 credit pointsTheatre Practice students will create a major theatre arts related project in their final semester, drawing on and combining areas from their three years of study. It is envisaged that this could be realised in any of a number of mediums and will incorporate a significant body of practical and theoretical work. It may include aspects of writing, directing, performance and production. Details of the project will be formulated in consultation with the supervising staff member.

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Theatre Secondment DRBA394 6 credit pointsFurther professional experience in a specific theatre industry role may be gathered by taking on a secondment to a professional production or event. This can be as broad as the opportunity allows, subject to approval and negotiation with the targeted company. Secondments must be undertaken with serious intent and selectivity and, on occasions, provide excellent pathways into the industry.

Video Production DRBA235 3 credit pointsDigital video is a rapidly expanding new area which offers possibilities for specialisation in a number of areas, including filming, editing and production, sound and story boarding. This unit gives students an overview of video techniques, particularly those of filming, story boarding and editing. Students will gain insights into and experience in the processes and ideas involved in film and video production.

Voice I-VI DRBA111-315 3 credit pointsThis practical series of units is designed to equip students with the full range of vocal skills and techniques needed for dramatic performance. Exercises are given to free the natural voice and grant students access to vocal support, resonance, muscularity and articulation. Students explore the effects upon the voice of space, performance dynamics, and the presence of the audience and of other performers. They learn to perform a range of texts with varying, and increasingly difficult, vocal and interpretive demands. Students also study dialect and the vocal aspects of characterisation.

Academic StaffDr Herman Pretorius BA, BA(Hons)CreatWrit&Lit, STD, BA(Hons)Drama, MADrama, PhD Head

Ms Jo Kenny BATheatrePerf Drama Coordinator

Ms Donna Abela BAVisArts, BACommun, MATheatreStudies

Mr Ben Anshaw BADesignforTheatre&TV

Mr Cale Bain BA, BBusMgt, MA

Ms Kylie Bonaccorso DipArts, BA, GradDipEd

Ms Kate Gaul BA, GradDipDirecting NIDA Ms Fiona Gentle-Snow DipFinArts, CertTheatreArts, CertPhysicalTheatre, MACreatArtsTherapy

Ms Katherine Hopwood-Poulsen BATheatrePerf, GradDipVoice, CertVerseSpeak, ACTLSpeech&Drama Ms Wendy James BFineArts, DipEd, CertCouns

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Ms Hailey McQueen BCA(DramaPerf), GradDipEd

Ms Genevieve Mooy RN, NIDA Graduate

Ms Elizabeth Rogers BCADramaProd

Mr Phil Snow BA, CertIVA&WT

2012 FeesTuition Fees

Domestic*

Overseas**

Bachelor of Dramatic Art

Course Fee^ $39,863.00 $51,408.00

Diploma of Dramatic Art

Course Fee^ $26,910.00 $34,272.00

Administration Fees$120 Graduation Fee

$100 Late Enrolment Fine

$50 Late Variation to Enrolment Fine

$20 Student ID Card Replacement

$25 Request for Transcript (plus postage costs)

$100 Request for replacement Testamur

$0 - $200 Deferred Payment Contract Fee

$50 Late fee for missing an agreed payment

$50       Re-Issue of Financial Records Fee (current year)

$150     Re-Issue of Financial Records Fee (previous years) 

$100+ Course Withdrawal Fee (up to start of classes)

$200+ Course Withdrawal Fee (after classes commence)

*Domestic Student: A student who is an Australian citizen, a New Zealand citizen, or the holder of a permanent humanitarian visa. **Overseas Student: Any student who is not a domestic student.

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^Fees for units taken in any other School are published in the Course Information Book for that School, and at Tuition Fees. Fees are subject to annual review and increase.+New students only++Credit points

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Wesley Institute offers the following courses:

Master of Arts (Leadership and Applied Ethics)Master of Arts (Religious Education) Master of CounsellingMaster of MusicMaster of Teaching (Primary)Master of TheologyMaster of Theology (Korean medium)Master of Theological Studies

Graduate Diploma of Arts (Applied Ethics)Graduate Diploma of Arts (Leadership)Graduate Diploma of Arts (Religious Education)Graduate Diploma of CounsellingGraduate Diploma of Education (Secondary)Graduate Diploma of Theological Studies

Graduate Certificate in Arts (Leadership and Applied Ethics)Graduate Certificate in Arts (Religious Education)

Bachelor of Theology (Honours)

Bachelor of DanceBachelor of Dramatic ArtBachelor of Graphic DesignBachelor of MusicBachelor of TheologyBachelor of Theology (Korean medium)

Associate Degree of DanceAssociate Degree of Graphic DesignAssociate Degree of MusicAssociate Degree of TheologyAssociate Degree of Theology (Korean medium)

Diploma of Dramatic Art

May 2012Wesley Institute

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