RADA Royal Academy of Dramatic Art Founded by Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree in 1904

Course Outline
At the start of this four term course you will learn basic backstage work, including scenery handling and flying, continuing with all aspects of theatre lighting and sound. Your training will provide you with all the skills you
need to take on the roles of Sound Production Technician and Lighting Designer on the Academy’s public productions, where you will work with professional directors, designers and lighting designers Your training will be
supplemented by visits, demonstrations and guest lectures and in your final term your project work will be exhibited in RADA’s GBS Theatre in the ‘Technical Tree’ giving you the opportunity to talk about your work with an
invited group of industry contacts.

“WORKING ON THE RADA TREE, TOGETHER WITH THE TWO OTHER LIGHTING SPECIALISTS,
I WAS CHARGED WITH LIGHTING THE EXHIBITION – WHICH WAS QUITE A RESPONSIBILITY.
THE VARIETY OF DISPLAYS GAVE US AN EXCITING OPPORTUNITY TO LIGHT
A FASCINATING MIXTURE OF TYPES OF WORK”
MICHAEL NABARRO IS A STUDENT
ON THE SPECIALIST LIGHTING COURSE

The training covers:
• lighting and sound design on RADA productions
• lantern identification and maintenance; rigging; focusing
• lighting board operation
• lighting design projects
• theatre history
• sound
• technical drawing
• Computer Aided Design (CAD)
• research – style and period
• lectures in practical theory in lighting design
• stagecraft
• project work on lighting design
• up to six weeks professional attachment Graduates of this course have gone on to become freelance production electricians, lighting technicians and lighting and sound designers in the theatre, film and television industries and corporate events.

For general information on entry requirements and admissions, click here

Entry Requirements
• We would consider it desirable, but not essential, for applicants to possess a first degree or other qualification in a relevant subject
and previous practical understanding of the discipline

Admissions
• Intake of up to three students in September each year • You will be asked to bring a portfolio and samples of previous work to your interview

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Note: RADA does not discriminate against applicants on the grounds of sex, disability, ethnicity, religion or sexuality. We welcome applications from disabled people and offer places solely on the basis of potential and suitability to enter the profession. The school is mainly housed in a newly refurbished building which provides good access for wheelchair users.