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24th January 2025
In this exclusive interview, we delve into the exciting world of the MA Screen Acting course at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. We chat with Iman Bahmanabadi about what makes this program unique, the skills he looks for in applicants, and the rewarding journey that awaits aspiring Screen Actors.
What makes your course stand out from other similar programs?
The programme is unique. We don’t abide by a particular method of acting, which plays to our benefit. We do so many different techniques and explore such a variety of practitioners because we’re trying to establish that the actor is at the centre of their own practice and what tools are in their kit..
What kind of student thrives on your course?
People who have ideas that they want to explore, those who want to be in a state of discovery and who are not too rigid in their definitions of screen acting and are committed to their curiosity.
What are the top 3 skills or qualities you look for in applicants?
Curiosity – for sure.
For a commitment, for kindness and for openness to how they approach the work and their colleagues. People who are open to the questions they want to ask and the answers they receive.
What are the career pathways available to graduates of your course?
Well first of all, we put on a showcase to demonstrate the work that the students have created to the wider industry, which is a fantastic opportunity for building relationships with professionals and potential employers. Many of our students have gone on to do top-level acting work with the BBC, Disney+, Paramount+ etc. But others have gone on to other things, such as movement, voice, and teaching. So it is more varied than just being an actor.
What is the most rewarding part of your role as Head of Course?
Seeing the process and seeing the learning with the students on the course. It is an intense 1-year course and we’re aiming for mastery to see the dedication, processes, connections and achievements is rewarding. Seeing them becoming an artist in their own right!
Where do students typically come from?
It depends, some come from a background in acting, with a BA, but generally a love of arts and acting. Some come from other undergraduate studies such as history. Others come from a career change. But all come with the interest and desire to explore and learn and hone their craft as a screen actor.
What is the most exciting thing about studying your subject at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School?
The most valuable thing is our cross-collaboration. We work with students on all other courses in the school, it is a tight-knit community and you become friends with everyone and we play to that as a huge strength. We don’t focus on just one way of going about things. There are lots of exciting ways to shape our student’s craft.
What is the most important thing you want prospective students to know about your course?
I think we go about things with real kindness. It isn’t just about having a rigid lesson plan. We teach the class, we teach to the interests, skills and abilities of the students on the course. Everyone comes at different levels and has different ideas of what they want to achieve and who they want to be. Despite us having the modules there is also a great element of play and being able to explore that.
If you’re interested in acting, if you’re interested in film, if you’re interested in TV. If you have a desire to learn, grow and develop your own practice as an actor? If so then the MA Screen Acting at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School is for you.
Apply before 28th February 2025 for Sept 2025 entry.
For more information about the course and how to apply – please visit this section of our website:
