3 Year BA (Hons) in Professional Acting

Classwork

• We teach in small groups to ensure a balance of group and individual work. Classes are interactive and practical. We believe in classical training with a modern focus. We do not dictate a single methodology but offer several and encourage each student to find their own process. Click on the Course Structure tab to see a term-by-term list of the taught classes.

Productions

• Student productions form a vital part of your development as actors. As the course progresses we move from short 'bare bulb' scene studies in rehearsal blacks with no sound, to full-length productions with full technical support. Prior to the graduation season and your professional career launch, all productions and scene studies are presented in-house to students and faculty - all except for our Theatre in Community Project, which traditionally tours to groups outside DSL in December of year 3. All of our directors are working professionals offering an invaluable gateway into the profession. 

Student Progress

• Heads of departments along with outgoing and incoming directors meet after every project to review every student's development. Casting for the upcoming projects is decided, based upon needs and development. Our strong tutorial system supports this process, providing both educational support and pastoral care to each student.

Film & TV

• Core acting classes for screen and TV stretch throughout the year. You will learn the fundamental skills of screen acting including continuity and hitting marks, the different ways in which films and TV are shot, and work with current directors on-screen acting in scenes from different genres. You will receive training in self-taping and in the final term, you will film scenes with professional directors and film crew. You can see work from previous years' students here.

Audio

• Audio takes place across the three years. The aim is to provide the students with the widest possible experience of audio technique, with work on the various approaches to recording radio drama; audiobooks; animation; commercial voiceovers; poems; documentaries, and computer games; and to equip them with practical knowledge and ability to exploit this growing area of employment in their future careers. Traditionally in their final term, each student records two contrasting monologues to demonstrate their vocal versatility and microphone technique.

Preparing for Work

• We train you not just how to act but also how to be an actor. Your Professional Preparation sessions begin in year 2 and include visits from working professionals to share their knowledge and answer your questions. More industry-oriented classes are added as the course goes on. These continual sessions will introduce you to agents, casting directors, TV directors, professional employers, and others, as well as providing guidance on auditioning, letter writing, CVs, and photographs.

Festivals & Competitions

• Students are eligible to represent Drama Studio London in the BBC Carleton Hobbs Radio Competition, Spotlight Showcase, Sam Wanamaker Festival at the Globe Theatre, and Royal Shakespeare Company Workshops.