Are you passionate about technical theatre? Want to know what goes on behind the scenes and to be part of the integral team that brings live productions to life? This course offers a unique combination of lighting, sound design and operation, set design, prop making, rigging and maintenance, production and stage management skills.
Throughout the course, you will build your skills as a technician, lighting designer, audio and live events manager through a mix of collaborative and independent working. The course is designed to give you a real hands-on experience of producing a wide range of live performance events.
It develops your creative and technical knowledge and skills, gives you real industry experience and prepares you for a successful career in this exciting, ever-changing and dynamic profession.
This program will give you a comprehensive understanding of theatre production by focusing on essential technical theatre elements, including stage management, health and safety protocols, set design and construction, as well as theatrical and music lighting and sound. The learning approach combines both tutor-led instruction and hands-on practical sessions, with the qualification incorporating both practical and theoretical assignments.
You will gain real industry experience in both lighting and sound design, stage and production management. Live Events students at Gateshead College are an integral part of all the performances we stage, both in-house and venues across the region.
Students will collaborate closely with peers in acting, dance, and musical theatre to create and bring to life exciting and thought-provoking stage performances. Additionally, the course will equip students for future opportunities, including applications for specialized technical or production courses, apprenticeships, or university-level studies.
The course is delivered by subject experts, and you will have the opportunity to work independently as well as in small groups. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to attend external performances, workshops, as well as go on trips and visits to venues, both regionally and nationally.
You will work collaboratively with the Performing Arts, Dance and Music Performance students to bring to life performances to audiences. This reflects industry practice.
The UAL Level 3 Diploma/Extended Diploma in Performing & Production Arts (Technical Theatre Pathway) is a two-year, full-time vocational course, equivalent to 3 A-Levels.
You will work on the following practical projects:
Four GCSE grades at 4 or above, including either English or maths, or a relevant qualification at Level 2 or appropriate experience.
Each term, you will participate in classes delivered by subject specialists, additionally you will have the opportunity to attend external performances and workshops.
You will also work on regular industry led performance commissions. Gateshead College has a long history of working with both Northern Stage and Live Theatre and a number of our students have gone on to work in a professional capacity at both these North East venues, as well as for companies nation-wide.
On completion of this course, you will have the skills and knowledge to embark on a career in this creative and exciting industry.
Many of our graduates have secured places at some of the nation’s leading drama schools and HE institutions, including RADA, Mountview, Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, LIPA and Backstage Academy.
This course is free to those aged under 19 years old.
Most people aged 19 years and over can qualify for free or reduced price course fees and there are grants and bursaries you can apply for to help cover the costs of coming to college, depending on your circumstances.
If you already have a full level 3 qualification and are aged 19 years over, you can apply for an Advanced Learning Loan or pay the fee upfront in full and qualify for a 10% discount.
You can get more information at our enrolment events, by calling 0191 490 2246 or email us at [email protected]
Whatever support you need, we’re here for you and will make sure you get the most out of your time at college. We have expert teams in place to look after every single one of our students.
To contact our dedicated Learning Support team email [email protected] or head to Live Chat
View or download our course guide for 16-18 year olds.
Saturday Club – Film & Screen
Saturday 29 March 2025
Saturday Club – Art & Design