Program Overview

The Bachelor of Performance and Theatre at UOW is a highly practical course that will prepare you for a career in the performing arts and broader creative industries. You will learn the techniques, strategies and processes of contemporary theatre-making and performance in a range of contexts.

Complementing the practical aspects of your degree, you will undertake core subjects in the history and theory of theatre, as well as core subjects including professional practice. You will also have the opportunity to undertake electives or a minor study in associated areas such as stage management and sound and lighting design, as well as creative writing, audio production or media arts among others. All students participate in producing and performing in their own productions throughout their degree, thereby gaining industry-relevant experience.

What you will study
The Bachelor of Performance and Theatre degree allows you to specialise in either Acting or Theatre Making.

Acting Major
Undertaking the Acting major will see you develop as a self-reliant and highly skilled performing artist through UOW’s practice-based program. You will learn to apply acting skills and theoretical knowledge to contemporary performance and theatre. Subjects will cover traditional interpretive actor training, crafting your skills in acting, voice, singing and movement, with a focus on contemporary playwriting and devised works for theatre and performance. You will be involved in the development, rehearsal and performance of theatre productions, allowing you to mature as an actor as you work with a range of methodologies and theatre genres.

Entry into the Acting major is based on a combination of both academic results and audition scores. You will be required to audition to demonstrate your talent and potential to benefit from the course. Whether you apply through Early Admissions, through UAC, directly to the University or through an internal course transfer, you will need to separately arrange an audition. Audition information is available here.

Theatre Making Major
Studying the Theatre Making major will help you explore the many possibilities of creating theatre for diverse audiences in both regional and urban settings. It considers all the elements of theatre-making (stage-craft, dramaturgy, stage management and performance-making) in order to communicate content, atmosphere and impact. You will also receive an introduction to lighting and sound design, and discover how theory and history will shape your development as an informed, professional and self-reliant practitioner.

In addition to a major in Acting or Theatre Making, you can add a minor in another study area that will bring a multi-disciplinary aspect to your degree. Options include music, photography, creative writing, graphic design, media arts and visual arts.