Acting MFA - 2024/5

Other information

Digital Capabilities
In the MFA Acting programme, digital capabilities are crucial in enhancing students' learning experience, fostering their digital literacy, and preparing them for future employment opportunities. Throughout the programme, students will utilise specialist software to create digital and promotional content. They will also leverage various sharing platforms and social media outlets to share their work with industry professionals and peers. Additionally, students will use traditional software and other digital tools for communication, administration, and planning purposes. Emphasising the importance of engaging with the wider creative industries, showcase work and performance pieces will be generated in digital formats, enabling students to connect with a broader network of potential employers and creatives. Digital technologies will also be incorporated into the assessment process, allowing students to receive feedback on their work in digital formats before producing employer-facing materials.

Employability
The employability pillar is deeply integrated into the MFA Acting programme, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills and attributes highly sought by employers in the creative industries. Our experienced staff, who themselves have professional backgrounds, deliver authentic and practical working methods, mirroring professional practices from the studio to rehearsal to public performance. Throughout the programme, students develop various transferable skills, including independent and collaborative working, creative thinking, critical analysis, reflective thinking, and problem-solving. Students will engage with industry stakeholders invited to observe classes and attend performances to foster industry connections. Moreover, the programme benefits from a dedicated Director of Employability, who actively facilitates constant and high-level engagement with major employers and established and emerging creatives. This focused approach ensures that our students have ample employability and creative outreach opportunities, resulting in enhanced career prospects in the industry.

Global and Cultural Capabilities
Students will be able to enhance their social, historical, and cultural awareness through a broad range of play texts and by engaging in discussions and sharing experiences and knowledge from their backgrounds and cultures. This will enable them to appreciate, recognise, and interpret diverse perspectives with an open mind. As actors in training, students will have the chance to immerse themselves in characters and communities that represent diverse perspectives. By doing so, they will develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for these perspectives. Furthermore, students will be encouraged to actively contribute to current debates in the creative industries. Through informed and thoughtful contributions, they can make a meaningful impact in these discussions. GSA has a dedicated Equality, Diversity, and Inclusivity director to ensure inclusivity. If students have specific needs or face barriers to their individual learning, they will be signposted to the university's Disability and Neuro-Diversity service for support. Lastly, GSA is committed to making a range of performances accessible to all. This demonstrates GSA's commitment to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to engage with and appreciate the arts.

Resourcefulness and Resilience
Our structured learning journey develops performance and rehearsal skills, equipping students with resources for their training and future employment. By incorporating the Michael Chekhov technique and other proven acting methodologies, we provide a comprehensive education that fosters diverse acting skills and approaches in a collaborative environment. Acting requires navigating uncertainty, taking on responsibilities, and overcoming challenges. Our programme supports the development of these abilities through formative and summative feedback. To cultivate resourcefulness and resilience, our training includes independent and collaborative learning, problem-solving, communication, perseverance, critical thinking, self-management, and self-value. Our industry-aligned training prepares students for successful acting careers. In addition to classes, rehearsals, and performances, we foster a supportive and inclusive environment for personal growth and well-being. Our holistic approach develops confidence, adaptability, and self-regulation to thrive in the acting industry. To enhance resourcefulness and resilience, we seek feedback from students, staff, and industry professionals to refine our curriculum and meet industry needs, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their careers.

Sustainability
The MFA Acting programme is fully committed to sustainability. Students reflect on their work's social, cultural, ethical, political, economic, and environmental impact. They understand how their values and actions affect audiences and the characters they portray. As future sustainability leaders, students make informed decisions and promote the well-being of present and future generations. GSA prioritises sustainability in all aspects. Productions follow best practices in material usage, offering digital or printed resource options. We reduce reliance on group media storage and continually review our procedures to make sustainability integral to our work. The MFA Acting programme fosters sustainability awareness and empowers students to be responsible leaders. Through sustainable production and ongoing improvement, we prepare students to impact society and the environment positively.