EXPRESSIONS

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The college that cares

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Academy of Performing Arts

CONTENTS Welcome & Patrons The Course The Studios Dance Singing Acting Performance About your Audition Health & Happiness Student Life Application Form Medical Form Casting Agency How to find us

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WELCOME

The College That Cares

Welcome to our latest edition of the Expressions Academy of Performing Arts prospectus. Choosing the right Performing Arts course for you is probably one of the most important decisions you will ever have to make. This prospectus is designed to help you make that final decision. At Expressions we aim to give you the best possible training in all disciplines along with full support to each student to help you realise your potential to blossom and prosper. One of the leading establishments in the UK, the academy’s 3 year full time Musical Theatre Performing Arts course covers all aspects of modern performance giving you the stage to blossom. Covering Dance, Acting and Singing, our experts and state-of-the-art-facilities have got what it takes to help you branch out into the world of performing arts. Never losing sight of your happiness, the academy cultivates your potential helping you grow into a fully-rounded performer that the industry can be proud of. With a history of student success, links to our own casting agency and a caring, supportive environment that really looks out for you every step of the way, there’s no better place to start your journey into the world of performing arts. Expressions is accredited by the Council for Dance Education and Training. It is also accredited by Edexcel to deliver Btec qualifications and is also a registered centre with Trinity Guildhall and I.D.T.A. Registered to deliver career development loans with the Skills Funding Agency.

Maxine Glasby - Principal & Proprietor

OUR PATRONS SAMANTHA WOMACK

Sam is well known for playing Ronnie Mitchell in Eastenders and is also an esteemed Musical Theatre performer along with a successful career In the Industry. Sam has an extensive list of theatre credits including South Pacific, Guys & Dolls, Grease and the hit TV series Game On. We are very honored that Sam is Expressions patron.

BEN RICHARDS

Ben is well known for his role in The Bill as PC Nate Roberts. Also appearing in Holby City and Footballers Wives. Theatre credits include 9 to 5, Priscilla Queen of the Desert., Guys & Dolls, Saturday Night Fever and The Full Monty. We are very honored that Ben is Expressions patron.

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THE COURSE What’s Covered?

The demand on the performer is ever increasing as the performance industry grows. There is a great need for Musical Theatre students who have been well trained in dance, singing and acting. We aim to help you achieve this. The stage is continually dominated by musicals. The Academy offers professional training from a high calibre of teachers who have and still are performing professionally. The emphasis is put on all disciplines equally to make you the all round performer and to keep students up to date with current trends. EPA prides itself on the flexibility of its courses on offer combined with a unique syllabus which keeps a keen eye on the Industry. Performance is always the foremost focus and alongside that the 3 Year Musical Theatre course enables the students to study for various levels of qualifications ranging from Level 3 to Level 6 in the National Qualifications framework. Younger students can study for Btec Level 3 extended diplomas with Edexcel and all students will study with Trinity Guildhall for Level 4 (1st level degree) or Level 6 (2nd level degree) qualifications in Musical Theatre. Any of these qualifications can be attained without reducing any learning hours spent on the course. In addition we also offer teacher training qualifications in all three disciplines included in the course in the relevant examination bodies. Guest teachers from high calibre working professionals in the industry will visit each Friday enabling the students to gain as much exposure in different styles as possible. Students are exposed regularly to a variety of visiting choreographers, musical directors and casting directors, in preparation for theatre, film and TV.

Expressions Casting Agency will then promote the performer to their greatest capability in order to gain employment in their chosen field and the student will leave having attained their highest performance level. Monitoring of your progress is continuous. Assessments are given each term on dancing, singing and acting - ending in a performance at the end of term which varies from a full scale musical or play to a showcase. You will be assessed on all productions and given written and verbal feedback immediately. This becomes part of the monitoring system, which we have in place to ensure each student’s rapid progression and improvement through the terms. Yearly reports will be issued by all subject tutors. Private lessons are available and encouraged in the evenings. In the second and third years, students can develop their preferred area more intensely with specialist exams in the relevant disciplines, however the other disciplines will still be integrated into the timetable. Throughout the training programme technique classes are split so that students of the same ability may study together even if in a different year group - this enables the students to achieve their very best potential The 3 year Musical Theatre course is full time and intensive. At the end of the three years each graduate will have achieved a balanced and complete all round training, and be ready to go out and perform professionally with confidence and in a style all of their own.

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THE STUDIOS Facilitating Success

Expressions Academy of Performing Arts is situated just outside the centre of Mansfield, approximately five minutes walk from the amenities of the town. Expressions is set in a large, modern building, all dance, singing and acting studios are under one roof and are easy to access. Along with the studios Expressions have many other amenities. There is a library and TV/DVD resources. These include audio and visual library with reference books, journals and DVD’s, CD’s and sheet music. A TV, DVD player and CD players and ipad/ipod docking stations are available for use by students. There is also an IT room with computers all connected to the Internet, all have a DVD facility and wireless Internet is available throughout the building free of charge. From the minute you walk in the door, Expressions warm and friendly atmosphere will make you feel at ease. The studio is easy to get around and the friendly staff will be pleased to help you and answer your questions. We at Expressions Academy of Performing Arts feel your time at the Academy will be enjoyable and rewarding. The academy boasts five large studios set in a spacial and contemporary building. They all have Canadian Maple sprung floors, mirrors, full sound system and are fully air conditioned/heated. The total studio space is a stunning 13,500 square feet, which makes each studio an amazing size. The biggest of the studios is Studio 1 which is 3,864 square foot (46 feet width, 85 feet long), so there will be no overcrowding in lessons. Expressions is a modern and clean complex. The Academy is within easy reach by train or bus. Both are a short walk (5 minutes) from the studio. The train has a half hour service to Nottingham and then from Nottingham you can connect to your destination. The bus service is great for local trips to get you home after a tiring day at the Academy. Or you can go nationwide with the National Express coaches stopping in Mansfield to many destinations in the UK and also with the Academy having its own car park outside it is just as easy to drive.

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DANCE Performance in Motion

Dance is an integral part of Musical Theatre. We aim to develop your competence and confidence in jazz, tap, ballet, commercial jazz, street jazz, hip hop, lyrical jazz, pas de deux, body conditioning, pilates and fitness training. The course is structured according to the student’s abilities allowing two groups to develop at a different pace of progression and to work at a level, which is right for you. Firm foundations, technique and placement will be an essential part of every dance class. Flexibility and strength, will be developed to the maximum along with co-ordination, control and stamina. Many different styles will be taught and visiting

Professionals will teach choreographic repertoire from many West End Musicals. You will develop the ability to learn sequences and retain corrections. Ballet is the foundation for all dance disciplines and aims to develop your understanding of turn out, placement, stance, posture and line. It also gives you an understanding of the body and how to avoid injury. Tap will enable you to build on your vocabulary of steps, learn difficult and intricate combinations and develop a variety of rhythms and styles. Jazz will range from Commercial street jazz for TV and videos to lyrical technical jazz. Technique is always of the utmost importance enabling you to dance with control, energy and dynamics.

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SINGING Striking the Right Chord

It is essential that Performers have a strong technical foundation on which to base their studies. Students will study vocal placing, blending of head and chest voice, posture, tone, pitch and develop their diaphragm and breathing. Many varied styles will be taught from Musical Theatre to rock, solo to ensemble, jazz to contemporary. Vocal harmonies will be an important part of the curriculum as well as one to one singing tuition to enable the student to develop their portfolio of material required to audition in Year 3. Part singing and vocal Improvisation will also be covered. Music theory classes will help you to understand the elements of music so that

you can read a simple score and have the ability to sight read. Singing and acting are integrated in acting through song which helps you discover text of songs and deliver them in a convincing performance which is a very difficult aspect of Musical Theatre. Classes will be given weekly to help you with this. There will be many opportunities for you to sing before an audience of tutors and fellow students and classes will develop your confidence to do this. A full scale musical will be performed each academic year giving you full exposure to a wide variety and choice of musicals.

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ACTING A Class Act

A wide variety of styles are covered from classical to modern, comedy and Shakespeare.. Expressions recognises the importance of strong acting skills within a Musical Theatre course. Classes are structured to enable students to have a wide understanding of all techniques and to give confidence to handle scripts, have the ability to sight read, improvise and have confidence in auditions. Work on the individual student’s voice is vital for their progression in the world of theatre. As a dancer has to warm their body before performance, an actor/actress has to make sure the voice is ready to perform. Clarity, annunciation, diction and phrasing, along with a sound knowledge of

‘Received Pronunciation” (RP) is paramount to good speech. Expressions will give students a chance to be involved in a production of a play as well as a musical theatre presentation. The course develops your imagination and concentration and trains the student to work in a disciplined way as a team member, working on performances from straight plays to musicals. In this ever increasing world of technology, we at Expressions are fully aware of the need to be able to revert to the basics of acting in the theatre. Any thespian worth their salt should have the ability to walk into any theatre,fully confident that their performance doesn’t need to be enhanced by amplification. Remember what can’t be heard can’t be judged !

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PERFORMANCE The World’s a Stage

Performance is essential to the all round performer and it is a strong criteria at Expressions. A minimum of two performances per year will be performed during your course, with sets, costumes, lighting and sound. A Musical Theatre performance will be performed in its entirety every year. The college will host an end of year showcase . In addition in the students 3rd and final Year there will be the opportunity to perform at a London Showcase specifically geared for agents and directors to come and view your work. Workshops will be a major part of the timetable. working professionals will be invited to the Academy on a weekly basis to work with students, giving them a vast knowledge from the world of theatre. This provides performance experience and allows each student to flourish, progress and develop his or her own personal technique.

Performance classes are regularly part of the curriculum where students perform a song/dance/ speech to their peers and receive constructive criticism. An accompanist is always on hand for this. It is essential that a musical theatre performer is able to work as part of a team to produce performances that a Musical Director and Director would require from an ensemble. As well as the Performing Arts Academy, Expressions have their own agency which offers students the chance to perform short term contracts. This is encouraged to give our students the chance to have the experience of working professionally in the industry. Work during term time will not be discouraged but students will only be released for short periods of time so the student’s education does not suffer. Experience of a live audience is crucial and we aim to give the student as much of this as possible. . 9

ABOUT YOUR AUDITION Starting your Journey

Entry into the Academy is by audition only. Entry for the September intake are held from the preceding November to July. Candidates will be notified of an audition date when a completed application form and fee are received. Candidates must confirm this date along with the completed application form, medical form and photographs. The form may be sent via postal application of via the Internet. Applicants must be 16 years of age plus and have a satisfactory level of either dance, singing or acting training and show promise and be willing to train hard in the other two disciplines. A solo dance piece is required not exceeding 2 minutes in length to be of your own choice of style. A solo singing piece is required. Please bring a prepared song with backing track. You will not be allowed to sing unaccompanied. An acting monologue will also be required lasting no longer than 2 minutes.

A meeting will take place with the Principal where the Candidate gets to ask any questions they may have or anything they feel unsure of when meeting us for the first time. Parents are urged to attend the audition with the student to view the Academy on the day of the audition. During the audition we look at each candidate for talent, abilities and potential. We look for individuality and commitment to be hardworking. From this we can then build on their abilities to make them successful to gain employment upon leaving the Academy in their 3rd year. Scholarships are available to talented students and funding is available through the college and also we are fully accredited to provide career development loans. We give you the opportunity to spend the day shadowing a student. The student would participate in the whole days class at the Academy. The candidate can audition at the beginning of the day. There is no charge for the shadow day, the only charge is the usual audition fee. In order to maintain a high level of training and to monitor student’s progress effectively, the college accepts a limited number in each year. 10

HEALTH AND HAPPINESS

Health and welfare of every student are high on our priorities The Academy understands how important it is that every student has home comforts. On acceptance to the college you will be sent an accommodation list. Although the choice of accommodation you stay in is up to you the college vets all accommodation. This is to ensure that we have the best accommodation available for our students. As a rule we would suggest that all 16 and 17 year olds stay with a family to help them settle into life away from home. As this can be a big upheaval at this age, we find the student will settle down more easily in a family environment rather then being left in a flat to cope on their own. This will make settling into the Academy that little bit easier for them. On our first day at Expressions you will be in the care of our student liaison officer. You can discuss in strictest confidence at any time on a one to one basis anything that is troubling you. She will remain with you for the full three years and will be there for you at any time if you ever need help or advice regarding tuition and welfare. Our friendly staff are always willing to listen and will make time to help you with any problems you may have. Access to professional counselling can be made available when required. All counselling services are strictly confidential. Maintaining a high level of fitness is vital. Your body is your tool, and knowing how easily this can be damaged is crucial. All students are encouraged to respect their bodies and to understand and work within their physical limitation thus minimising the risk of injury. Our in house physiotherapist will be on hand to assist you with any problems you may have and she will monitor your progress weekly.

Health and welfare of every student are high on our priorities at Expressions. We understand how worries such as finance, accommodation and all Related matters can take over and so we urge every student to discuss these Matters. Diet and nutrition is a primary concern and we know how important It is for a successful career. Regular classes will be given throughout the year giving help and advice on ways to keep your body working to the maximum, with the demanding life of being a performer. You will be taught correct warm up procedures in all technique classes both physically and vocally. Any injuries will be monitored at all times. We also insist that every student is registered at a local medical practice and dentist. Students are advised to take out their own health care insurance taking into account physiotherapy and osteopathy needs. Our inhouse physiotherapy will give a free session to each student for a minimum of once per term. 11

STUDENT LIFE IN MANSFIELD A great place to live and study Culture…….. Situated in the heart of Robin Hood country, Mansfield is a market town. There is much to see and do with ample cultural and historical sights to include the historical home and gardens of Lord Byron the famous poet, Newstead Abbey. Clumber Part a National Trust conservation site containing spectacular scenic view, parkland lakes and woodland walks and Rufford Park with its historical Abbey and gardens, and of course Sherwood Forest with its grand heritage of Robin Hood. Selecting the right college to go to and the best place to live is also an important factor. Mansfield is the largest town in the UK and has all the benefits of a large city contained within a lively and bustling town. Mansfield is not only a great place to live and study but one of the least expensive with an exceptional low cost of living making accommodation and course fees more affordable. Mansfield is located in the heart of England, it has superb transport links to anywhere in the the UK. The train and bus station are located within the town centre and offer easily accessible links to all surrounding areas including direct links to Nottingham City centre and direct to London in less then two hours by train. The M1 is in very close proximity making driving routes easy and getting around no problem at all. In neighbouring cities Nottingham, Derby and Sheffield you will find some of the best nightlife and shopping to be found anywhere in the Country.

Mansfield Town centre has a host of pubs, clubs and late bars to suit your taste. In addition to the enormous Odeon Cinema and neighbouring restaurants and fast food outlets all within easy walking distance from the town. The town hosts the Palace Theatre, a major mid scale touring theatre venue and also has a ten pin bowling centre. Mansfield is home to a wide variety of restaurants including Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Thai, Mexican and Italian cuisine. The town boast numerous gyms and leisure centres including a large swimming complex with flumes, rapids in a sub tropical atmosphere. Sports fanatics will not be disappointed with sports including football, golf, rugby, horse riding, clay pigeon shooting to paint balling in Sherwood Forest! 12

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CASTING AGENCY Express Yourself Expressions Casting Agency represents students both from the Academy and other graduates from the UK. The agency promotes graduates for West End, Tours, TV, Film, Commercial, T.I.E Cruise Liners, Pop Videos, Trade Shows and Corporate events. Students in Years One and Two of Expressions are allowed and encouraged to take short contracts of work. This is to enable our students to have the chance to gain the experience of working Professionally in the industry. Work during term time will not be discouraged but Students will only be released for short periods of time so that the student’s education does not suffer.

During Year Three students will be prepared Intensely for audition in their chosen field. portfolios will be developed to the maximum. CV preparation and cover letters will be taught intensely in networking classes and specially tailor made networking lesons will give the student the best possible start into the profession. Professional photos and repros eill be arranged as part of the course with an esteeemed professional photographer. The agency will promote the Year Three students to maximum effect upon graduation by arranging auditions with leading industry professionals and casting directors. The agency continues full representation with the student for as long as they require. Previous destinations include West End, UK & World Tours, TV & Film and Cruise Liners. 15

EXPRESSIONS Academy of Performing Arts 3 Newgate Lane Mansfield Notts NG18 2LB Tel: 01623 424334 [email protected] www.expressionsperformingarts.co.uk