State-of-the-art Music Theatre degree dazzles new students

THE brand-new Faculty of Arts Music Theatre degree at the University of Adelaide has begun with 35 international and domestic students training to become innovative performers of dance, drama and voice.

Taught by acclaimed music theatre experts, George Torbay and other respected leading professionals from the Elder Conservatorium of Music are providing intensive training in the physical and intellectual skills necessary for a career in live theatre entertainment. 

Auditions for the degree took place late last year in September, October and this January, with international students able to audition via video link.

One of those students auditioning internationally was Chinese student Kira Yang, from Beijing, who has spent most of her life in Singapore.

Kira said she was excited to start her Music Theatre studies.

“I just really love music theatre and being able to actually study this is really a blessing for me already,” she said.

Kira said she was looking at other universities to study Music Theatre before she chose the University of Adelaide.

“The University of Adelaide has a better reputation in China and worldwide. It’s a very good university.”

The degree is taught in close proximity to South Australia's cultural and creative hub - North Terrace - and provides core performing arts training.  Partnerships with cultural institutions such as the State Opera of South Australia, Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, Adelaide Festival, South Australian Film Corporation, Music Development Office, Adelaide Festival Centre, Adelaide Cabaret Festival and Adelaide Fringe will provide an unmatched experience for University of Adelaide students.

A brand-new, purpose-built dance rehearsal studio has been opened for the start of classes.