Program Overview

Introduction to the BA Acting and Contemporary Theatre Program

The BA Acting and Contemporary Theatre program at East 15 Acting School is designed to provide holistic training for a new generation of innovative, all-round actor-creators. This program is committed to creating a more accessible and inclusive theatre industry.

Program Overview

The program is founded on the principles and techniques of Joan Littlewood's Theatre Workshop and has been breaking new ground for more than 60 years. It offers students the chance to experiment with various forms and styles, and to develop and stage their own original work.

Course Structure and Content

The course focuses on developing rounded artists with a fostered taste and artistic vision. Students are trained as independent, inventive, and entrepreneurial artists, rather than just specialists in taking on characters and following scripts. The program includes challenging modules and projects that allow students to experiment, hone their skills, and develop their tastes.

The Debut Festival of New Plays

At the heart of the program is the Debut Festival of New Plays, led by alumni, where final-year students stage their original work. Approximately six plays are selected for the festival each year, and many have transferred to professional staging, won awards, and received publishing engagements.

Graduate Outcomes and Achievements

More than 350 graduates of the BA Acting and Contemporary Theatre degree have gone on to achieve great things in the theatre industry. Over 50 student-produced plays have transferred from the Debut Festival to professional staging, and more than 50 theatre companies have been created by graduates of the program. Almost 100 industry awards and nominations have been received by graduates and their theatre companies.

Inspirational Graduates

Many graduates have gone on to produce progressive work that challenges audiences, such as Charlie Josephine, who has written plays for the Royal Shakespeare Company and Royal Court. Others are in key roles, such as Sebastian Gardner, Schools Producer at the Almeida Theatre, and Lee Griffiths, Comedy Producer at the Soho Theatre.

Taking Theatre to Rural Communities

Graduates like Zoe Hinks, who founded Sabotage Theatre, are taking theatre to rural communities and exploring alternative ways of touring. They are committed to environmental sustainability and have traveled on horse, foot, and bicycles, and even piled props into prams as they tour around the country.

Amplifying Women's Voices

Burnt Lemon Theatre, founded by Hannah Benson and Cara Baldwin, makes bold, feminist musical work that shakes things up and challenges norms. They have toured extensively in the UK and internationally and have worked as Associate Artists at renowned venues like Birmingham Hippodrome and Leicester Curve.

Conclusion

The BA Acting and Contemporary Theatre program at East 15 Acting School is a unique and innovative program that provides students with the skills and training they need to succeed in the theatre industry. With its focus on developing rounded artists and its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, this program is helping to create a more vibrant and diverse theatre industry.