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21st January 2025
In this exclusive interview, we delve into the exciting world of the MA Drama Directing course at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. We chat with Nik Partridge about what makes this program unique, the skills he looks for in applicants, and the rewarding journey that awaits aspiring Drama Directors.
What makes your course stand out from other similar programs?
“The course is unique, because the emphasis is on collaboration and practical time in the studio. So as much as possible we’re asking our Directors to work with designers, writers, actors, stage managers, costume etc in a studio / company setting. This is a very practical and vocational approach to the training.
What kind of student thrives on your course?
“The students who thrive on our course are really curious and committed to their creativity and their own practice. So they are hungry for their own learning and ready to take on new challenges and face them fearlessly.”
What are the top 3 skills or qualities you look for in applicants?
“The top three skills we’re looking for are – a committed to your creative practice, a curiosity and desire to try out and learn new things and a dedication to your own development!”
What are the career pathways available to graduates of your course?
“There are so many career pathways available to graduates from this course. So many of the Artistic directors of venues from around the country and further afield too are graduates of this MA Directors course. There are also many freelancers and practitioners working across the creative landscape across the UK. There are also some that have gone in to corporate and business roles too.”
What is the most rewarding part of your role as Head of Course?
“The most rewarding part of my role is seeing the development of students on the course in just one year. One year is both a long time and also no time at all. But seeing how they respond to the frameworks and the opportunities for learning here at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School is hugely rewarding and satisfying, culminating in their own directing project at the end of the year which is always the highlight for me.”
What is the most exciting thing about studying your subject at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School?
“the most exciting thing about studying here is the contact and collaboration with other courses and students across the school As directors we can’t do our practice on our own, we have to work with other people and sit at the intersection of creative practice and enabling students to do that here is hugely exciting to me.”
What advice would you give to prospective students considering applying to your course?
“The advice I would give, is to really think about what drives and motivates you creatively and what you think are your areas of learning, challenge and experience. That way you will have a really clear sense of what the course can do for you and what you hope to come out at the end with.”
What is the most important thing you want prospective students to know about your course?
“I would like prospective students to know that this course is intensive, with a small cohort. You receive a lot of one on one support and guidance.. We really care about the outcome of each individual artist. We want to get to know you as an individual and support you to be the best version of yourselves. We believe in long term foundations – helping you build that steady base for success in 5, 10, 20 years in to the future!”
For more information about the course and how to apply – please visit this section of our website:
