If you’re passionate about drama and the thrill of acting, you’re in the right place! South Africa offers some fantastic courses for young learners looking to make their mark in Drama and Acting. But with so many options out there, you’re probably wondering where to start and what subjects you need to focus on. Let’s break down the main subjects, requirements, and courses to help you get on the right path.
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What Subjects Will Help You Get Into Drama and Acting Courses?
At the high school level, Dramatic Arts is the ideal subject to take if it’s offered at your school. This subject doesn’t just teach you acting skills; it covers theatre history, performance techniques, and even script analysis. According to the National Department of Basic Education, Grade 10 to 12 Dramatic Arts tasks include both theory and practical performance assessments, which are great for building confidence on stage.
Other subjects that go hand-in-hand with Dramatic Arts include English (for script reading and communication skills) and History (which helps you understand cultural contexts in plays). If you can’t take Dramatic Arts, don’t worry—many courses in acting will still welcome you with a good academic background and a clear passion for performance.
What Are the Basic Requirements for Drama and Acting Courses in South Africa?
Most South African institutions, like AFDA and the University of Pretoria, require that you’ve completed your National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a solid pass in Grade 12. You’ll need to meet each school’s Admission Point Score (APS) as well. For instance, AFDA offers Higher Certificate programmes that only require a matric pass, which is a good stepping stone for those wanting to dip their toes into performing arts.
For degree programmes like the Bachelor of Drama (BDram) at the University of Pretoria, the APS requirements can be a bit higher, and they usually look for strong passes in English and other related subjects. Meanwhile, Wits University’s Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Performance even includes an audition as part of its admission process. This isn’t just about academics—they want to see that spark and potential on stage!
Types of Drama and Acting Programmes to Consider
South Africa has several types of Drama and Acting programmes. Here are a few popular options:
- Higher Certificate in Performing Arts: This is a one-year course offered at institutions like AFDA, perfect if you’re looking to build a strong foundation without committing to a full degree. It’s a practical and accessible option for those with a matric pass.
- Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Performance: Wits University’s three-year programme gives you an in-depth look into acting, theatre production, and directing. The audition is crucial, so practice and bring your best performance to secure a spot!
- Bachelor of Drama (BDram): Offered at the University of Pretoria, this course covers acting, stagecraft, and directing over three years. It’s ideal for students with an interest in all aspects of theatre, not just acting.
- Diploma in Musical Theatre and Dance: If you love both singing and acting, Oakfields College offers a diploma programme in musical theatre, covering dance and stage performance skills.
Each programme has its unique requirements and focus areas, so do some research on the specific path that suits you best. You can also find a detailed list of schools offering these programmes at StudyChoices.
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