Our BA (Hons) Screen Performance course offers a good balance between performance, production, and theoretical knowledge and experience, preparing you for an exciting future in the performance and screen industries. Here at the University of Sunderland, you'll be at centre of a city that's teeming with culture, working alongside a dedicated and highly-skilled team of staff in the ideal surroundings to hone your craft.
Hear from programme leader, Dr. Adelle Hulsmeier (pictured), as she shares her five tips on how to get the most out of your Screen Performance degree...
1. Take advantage of practical opportunities
At the heart of any performance degree is performing, and getting to grips with and mastering your craft is essential to ensuring your future. At Sunderland, we place an emphasis on practical work throughout. “The BA (Hons) Screen Performance course gives students a vocational experience of the industry,” says Adelle, “We work with a range of performance briefs that allow students to explore the potential of acting for screen, not just limited to traditional TV and film work, but also multi-platform performances such as presenting, virtual reality and green screen. It's important to have experience of the multidisciplinarity that this subject affords’’.
2. Tailor your course to suit your own interests and career goals
BA (Hons) Screen Performance covers a wide range of different areas; both practical and production. Even if you love the subject, there’s a good chance that you’ll have your own passions and interests that are unique to you.
As Adelle explains: "There is a good mix of modules that are purposefully designed to fulfil your interests in work that takes place in front of and/or behind the camera. It remains important to explore all opportunities that this industry affords. Our vision is to offer our students a robust experience of all avenues into screen performance; production, scriptwriting, editing, camerawork, performance, actor-training, directing and producing".
3. Get real-life experience to boost your chances of success
To make it in the industry, you have to have 'the full package' and numerous strings to your bow. This includes having that all-important real-life experience as a graduate. At Sunderland, you’ll be given every opportunity to gain that experience and push yourself to the next level as a performer.
“Getting experience is extremely valuable to students, especially those trying to break into the industry,” explains Adelle. “We work with real clients. For example, we work with Northumbria Police on a live client brief and students are asked to produce films for awareness and training purposes that are used within the policing industry."
4. Be a part of a cultural centre
For any performance student, it is crucial to have a city on your doorstep which offers you plenty of opportunities. Here in Sunderland, the arts and culture scene is growing at an exponential rate, giving you every chance to get out and showcase your skills to the wider public. Adelle continues: "We’ve already got the Empire Theatre and the National Glass Centre as cultural hubs, but the city has also recently opened up the old Fire Station in town as a cultural venue and theatre, with Dance City and Live Theatre having residency here. There is a lot to be excited about!”
5. Finally, make sure the university is right for you
Ensuring that a university is right for your development is vital. Adelle’s final piece of advice is clear – make sure that the university you're looking at is a good fit for you. “The best advice I can give would be to come and see us in advance of starting your course here. It’s as much about you auditioning us as it is about us auditioning you."
Find out more about our auditions by watching our webcast: Preparing for your performance audition:
Learn more
Find out more about our Performance degrees through our course pages, or join us at our next Open Day.
Published: 17 June 2022