What does this course involve?
As you read this information, please note that this course is going to be re-accredited in the coming future. There will be minor changes to the course information provided here.
If working behind the scenes in live production is your passion, this course is designed for you to develop the skills you will need, or to update and broaden your current skills.
The course covers lighting, sound and stage management. You will learn how to record and operate lighting cues using standard and advanced techniques, and how to repair and maintain lighting equipment. Studies in sound will include selecting and managing microphones and other input sources, mixing live audio and the installation, repair and maintenance of audio equipment.
General entertainment industry and stage management topics will include coordinating the production process, establishing effective workplace relations, implementing workplace health, safety and security procedures and managing risk. Plotting and rehearsing cues and a general knowledge of props construction will also be covered. You will also learn how to organise and facilitate rehearsals.
The course includes a level II first aid certificate, training in the operation of elevating work platforms and certification in testing and tagging portable electrical equipment. Training includes experience working with our in house lighting and sound hire company and a significant work placement component.
What employment opportunities will I have?
You’ll be ready for employment as a lighting or sound technician, or in stage management, in a range of staged events, such as mainstream and alternative theatre, musicals, dance exhibitions, concerts, opera and product launches.
Such work can be of a freelance or contract nature. The call for stage managers for a wide variety of companies and events is constantly growing. Further career options include production and technical management.
As a student, the Institute’s Employment Service is your first port of call for advice on gaining employment in this field, and can be contacted on 1300 BOX HILL (1300 269 445).
Accreditation
Nationally Recognised
What further study options will I have?
After completing this course, you may be eligible to apply for further studies at a number of institutions including the West Australian Performing Arts Academy, the Victorian College of the Arts or the National Institute of Dramatic Arts.
Can I apply?
- You should have successfully completed VCE (but not mandatory) or be mature age (over 21 years)
- You should be able to present a folio or resume at the interview
- You should be able to demonstrate a strong desire to be involved in the theatre industry
- Involvement in, and understanding of, one or more of the technical roles in theatre would be highly regarded
How do I apply?
- To apply for a full time position in this course you must use the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) process. Details of the VTAC application process are at www.vtac.edu.au and in the VTAC Guide, which is available from leading newsagents and libraries from August. If the Institute still has vacancies after the VTAC places have been offered, you will be able to apply directly to the Institute.
Supplementary application requirements are necessary for this course. Please read the information contained in the selection process.
If you have any queries, please contact the Institute on 1300 BOX HILL (1300 269 445).
How will I be selected for this course?
- Individual Interview
- Assessment of Application
- Assessment of Application (VTAC)
- Supplementary requirements to the application process apply:
- To apply, contact the Centre for Performing Arts for a supplementary application form by:
- downloading from here or
- phoning the centre on (03) 9286 9695
On receipt of your completed application form, together with your audition fee, you will be notified of your interview time.
Length of course
Full time - 1 year
Where will I study?
Whitehorse Campus
What costs and other fees should I expect?
Government Funded
This course attracts Victorian Government funding. For information about Fees and Charges please click here. This qualification may also be provided on a fee for service basis to industry, interstate or international students.
Click here to learn about scholarships that may be relevant to this course.
How will I be assessed?
- Oral presentation
- Written assessment
- Practical assessment
- Project work
- Examination or testing
- Workplace Assessment
Will my previous experience or study count?
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or Recognition of Current Competencies (RCC) takes into account the knowledge and skills you’ve already gained through your previous education and work. This may be through formal or informal training, paid or unpaid work experience, and can earn you credit if relevant to your chosen course.