Bachelor of Music Theatre
Performing
A course by
Ara Institute of Canterbury
A three-year degree giving you practical and theoretical skills in acting, singing, dance, and music theatre performance, preparing you for a career on stage and in the performing arts industry.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Madras Street Campus, Christchurch
It will take a total of 3 years


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Develop professional skills in acting, singing, and dance
Gain practical training and experience in core theatre disciplines, preparing for careers in the performing arts industry.

Integrate multiple performing arts disciplines
Learn to bring together acting, voice, movement, and music skills in both ensemble and solo performance work.

Apply theoretical and research skills
Study theatre history, theory, and research methods to inform performance and production work.
What You're Signing Up For
This Bachelor of Music Theatre programme provides a comprehensive foundation in music theatre including acting, singing, and dance, supplemented with voice studies, music theory, theatre history, technical skills, and research. It features integrated practical performance experience, technical theatre, and a final-year capstone project, with opportunities for industry placements and specialization. Audition is required for admission. Graduates may pursue careers in stage acting, musical theatre, teaching, or entertainment and tourism industries, or continue to postgraduate study.
Course Content
- Acting for stage and musical theatre
- Singing and vocal technique
- Dance and movement skills
- Theatre history and research methods
- Technical theatre skills
- Music theory
- Spoken voice training
- Performance project (capstone)
- Industry work-integrated learning
- Choir/Kapa Haka
- Lyric writing
- Music creation (elective)
- Photography (elective)
- Film studies (elective)
- Professional studies
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 3 with University Entrance (60 credits at level 3 and 20 credits at level 2 or above, including 14 credits in each of three approved subjects)
Literacy (10 credits at Level 2 or above, 5 in reading, 5 in writing)
Numeracy (10 credits at Level 1 or above)
OR New Zealand Certificate in Performing Arts (Level 4) or equivalent qualification
Successful audition (in-person or via digital/remote if needed)
Alternative entry possible for candidates with equivalent skills by evidence of work and/or life experience

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Performing Arts
Entertainment Industry
Music Theatre
Tourism

Future employment opportunities might be
Musical theatre performer
Stage and screen actor
Dance performer
Voice performer
Performing arts teacher
Roles in tourism and entertainment industry


Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details