Classical Acting: Performance & Practice

Entry requirements

Applicants must be 21+ to apply for this course.

Aimed at graduates with a BA/BFA degree, or those who have equivalent vocational experience.

Applicants should have a knowledge and interest in classical texts and the speaking of verse and prose, and a commitment to a career as a professional actor.

Months of entry

September

Course content

This intensive MFA degree is delivered in two parts.

For the first 12 months you will experience an inspiring and exhilarating programme of classwork, scene study and workshop performances, culminating in a shared performance in our largest performance space, the Sainsbury Theatre.

The second part is a stimulating and immersive 6-month addition to the MA course that brings you into the landscape of drama pedagogies and adaptation.

The course has two specific focus points. The first aims to introduce the actor to the intellectual and practical processes of pedagogy, specifically relating to actor training and performance practices. You will discover a range of theatre disciplines and their applications for teaching and learning in diverse contexts. The second is an exploration of the creative and interpretative act of adaptation and how this relates to story, text, culture and the performing arts.

The MFA course provides an opportunity for you to discover and hone your own approaches to teaching. It also provides a platform for you to explore the contextual, political and artistic considerations when interpreting, adapting and presenting a Classical work. The course is taught in the evenings, with the option to study online or in person at LAMDA’s London campus.

Course highlights:

• Rigorous training through classes in Acting, Voice, Speech and Singing, Movement, Dance and Artist Development.
• A 20-minute self-created practical thesis project, performed here at LAMDA.
• A fully-realised classical production, industry facing, performed in our largest space, the Sainsbury Theatre.
• A UK showcase in the heart of London, for invited agents, casting directors and other industry figures.
• Masterclasses and workshops.
• LAMDA Syllabus in Practice course.

Information for international students

Each year, LAMDA hosts in-person auditions in different cities across North America, with call-backs in New York and Los Angeles.

If you live in North America, you are eligible for our in-person North American Audition Tour.

International applicants who wish to travel to and audition in North America should contact the Admissions team for information on availability.

Fees and funding

If you’re starting a Master’s degree, you could get a Postgraduate Master’s Loan to help with course fees and living costs. If you need any further information, please get in touch with our Admissions team.

Students can also apply for a Leverhulme Arts Scholarships, which awards between £3,000-£12,000 per annum and can support with fees and/or maintenance costs throughout the duration of a degree. These scholarships are available for all postgraduate courses.