Top 5 Theatre and Performance Courses In South Africa

Theatre and Performance courses in South Africa vary by institution, but they generally focus on acting, directing, stagecraft, voice, and movement. Here are some prominent examples and their typical requirements:

Theatre and Performance Courses In South Africa

1. University of Cape Town (UCT) – Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Performance

Overview: UCT’s program is highly regarded, covering acting, directing, stage management, theatre-making, and other aspects of performance arts.
Requirements:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a bachelor’s pass.
- Strong background in English.
- Additional admission tests, auditions, or interviews may be required to assess talent and suitability.

2. Rhodes University – Bachelor of Arts in Drama

Overview: Rhodes offers a BA in Drama, with a curriculum including acting, stagecraft, directing, and theatre-making.
Requirements:
- NSC with a minimum achievement level that meets the general BA requirements.
- English as a primary language subject.
- Audition and/or interview may be required.

3. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) – Bachelor of Arts in Dramatic Art

Overview: Wits’ Dramatic Art program focuses on acting, directing, and film studies, and it includes practical experience in theatre production.
Requirements:
- NSC with admission to a degree program.
- Strong marks in English.
- Auditions, interviews, and possibly a portfolio of prior work are typically required.

4. Stellenbosch University – BA in Drama and Theatre Studies

Overview: Stellenbosch offers a versatile program with an emphasis on practical and theoretical aspects of drama and performance.
Requirements:
- NSC with a bachelor’s pass and good marks in English.
- Interview and/or audition may be part of the selection process.

5. AFDA (The South African School of Motion Picture Medium and Live Performance) – Bachelor of Arts in Live Performance

Overview: AFDA’s program combines acting with broader studies in film, TV, and performance.
Requirements:
- NSC with a bachelor’s pass.
- Submission of creative work and possible interview/audition

Requirements Of Theatre and Performance Courses In South Africa

In South Africa, theatre and performance courses are available at several universities and institutions, often under departments of drama, performing arts, or fine arts. Requirements can vary by institution, but here are some general academic and admission criteria commonly needed:

1. Academic Requirements

National Senior Certificate (NSC): Applicants must have completed high school with a National Senior Certificate, meeting the minimum requirements for a bachelor’s degree in South Africa.
Minimum APS Score: Most universities use an Admission Point Score (APS) system. For theatre and performance courses, the APS requirement typically ranges between 24 and 34 points, but it may vary by institution.
English Proficiency: English is often a required subject, as coursework involves substantial reading, writing, and speaking skills. A minimum grade in English (often at least 50%) is typically required.

2. Auditions and Interviews

Auditions: Many theatre and performance programs require an audition as part of the application process. Applicants may need to prepare monologues, dance pieces, or musical pieces to demonstrate their skills and passion for the performing arts.
Interview: Some institutions may also require an interview to assess the applicant’s commitment and understanding of the field.

3. Portfolio Submission (Optional)

Certain programs might ask for a portfolio showcasing relevant experience or creative projects, such as acting, directing, scriptwriting, or stage design, to gauge practical and creative abilities.

4. Background and Experience (Optional)

Prior Experience: While not always mandatory, previous experience in acting, dance, music, or stagecraft can be beneficial.
Extracurricular Activities: Involvement in school drama clubs, community theatre, or performing arts groups is often an advantage.

5. Language Proficiency Tests (for International Students)

International applicants whose first language is not English might be required to take an English proficiency test (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS) if they have not previously studied in English.

6. Specific University Requirements

Each institution might have unique requirements, so checking the admissions criteria on the specific university’s website is essential. For example, notable programs are offered at:
- University of Cape Town (UCT): Known for its Drama Department with a comprehensive audition and portfolio process.
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits): Has a rigorous selection process, including auditions.
- Stellenbosch University: Offers programs that may require an APS, auditions, and potentially an interview

Fees Of Theatre and Performance Courses In South Africa

In South Africa, the fees for theatre and performance courses vary significantly by institution, type of course, and level of study.

University of Cape Town (UCT) – The Centre for Theatre, Dance, and Performance Studies at UCT offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in theatre and performance. For undergraduate students, fees are generally between R40,000 and R65,000 per year, depending on the program structure and level.
Rhodes University – Known for its integrated approach in drama studies, the Rhodes Drama Department provides modules in acting, directing, choreography, and more. Tuition fees for international students may be slightly higher, while South African students typically pay around R45,000 annually for undergraduate programs.
Market Theatre Laboratory – This Johannesburg-based institution offers a unique, affordable program focused on practical training in acting, stage management, and other theatre disciplines. It has an intensive, 40-week full-time course, with fees much lower than most universities, aimed at accessibility for students from diverse backgrounds.
Waterfront Theatre School (Cape Town) – A private institution, it offers comprehensive four-year programs in dance, drama, and musical theatre with fees set at around R122,000 per year. Additional costs for dance attire and examination fees apply. The institution also supports financial aid options through partnerships with finance providers.

These institutions each offer unique curriculums that cover a range of performance arts, from classical acting to musical theatre, and include various facilities, specializations, and performance opportunities

Career Opportunities Of Theatre and Performance Courses In South Africa

Theatre and performance courses in South Africa offer a diverse array of career opportunities across both creative and technical roles. Here’s an overview of some of the main career paths available:

1. Acting and Performing Arts

Stage Actor: Performers for live theatre productions across drama, musical theatre, comedy, and experimental theatre.
Film & Television Actor: South Africa’s film industry is growing, especially with local productions and international filming locations, providing roles in TV series, films, and commercials.
Voice-over Artist: Voice work in radio, television, advertisements, animation, and video games.
Musical Performer: Opportunities for musicians and singers in live concerts, music theatres, and even recorded albums.

2. Directing and Production

Theatre Director: Oversee the artistic vision of stage productions, working with actors and the creative team.
Film & TV Director: Manage the direction and production of films, series, and other multimedia projects.
Producer: Handle the financial and managerial aspects of production, securing funding, scheduling, and hiring key personnel.
Stage/Production Manager: Oversee logistics in theatre productions, from rehearsals to performances, managing the stage crew and coordinating technical requirements.

3. Scriptwriting and Playwriting

Playwright: Create original scripts for the stage, focusing on themes relevant to South African and international audiences.
Screenwriter: Write scripts for films, television, and digital platforms.
Content Creator: Develop content for a wide range of media, including radio plays, podcasts, and web series.

4. Technical and Design Roles

Lighting, Sound, and Set Designer: Design and execute technical elements in productions, essential in bringing the vision of the play or film to life.
Costume Designer: Design costumes for characters that reflect their personalities, time periods, and other thematic elements.
Makeup and Prosthetics Artist: Specialize in character makeup, from basic stage makeup to advanced prosthetics in TV and film.
Choreographer: Design movement and dance routines, often for musical theatre, film, and live events.

5. Teaching and Workshop Facilitation

Drama Teacher or Lecturer: Work in educational institutions teaching acting, directing, and technical theatre skills.
Workshop Facilitator: Lead theatre workshops in schools, community centers, and private organizations, often focusing on acting skills, social issues, or empowerment.

6. Arts Administration and Management

Theatre Manager: Manage theatre operations, including programming, marketing, audience development, and budgeting.
Event Coordinator: Organize and manage arts events, festivals, and exhibitions.
Arts Consultant: Advise on arts projects, policy-making, and community outreach for government and non-profit organizations.

7. Community and Social Development Roles

Applied Theatre Practitioner: Use theatre for social development, such as therapy, education, and awareness in communities.
Drama Therapist: Work with individuals and groups to address psychological and social issues through drama and performance.

8. Digital Media and Online Content Creation

Content Creator: Develop original content for social media, YouTube, and other platforms, which can include acting, scriptwriting, and directing.
Voice-Over Artist: Provide voices for animation, educational videos, and online courses.

Conclusion

South Africa’s creative industry has access to funding from entities like the National Arts Council (NAC), Department of Arts and Culture, and various private sponsors