We’re ready for your audition
After studying with us, students have moved on onto highly established drama schools including Arts Educational, Guildford School of Acting, Mountview Academy of Performing Arts, Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, The Oxford School of Drama and Performers Dance College.
Take to the stage and prepare for a career in the spotlight
There is no better way to prepare for a career in the spotlight then having a chance to perform in professional theatres. That’s why each year we host three performances a year at various stages across Oxfordshire, including the 220-seat auditorium in the Cornerstone Arts Centre, Didcot.
The performing arts department at the Abingdon campus really is the life of the College, with dedicated and passionate students at the heart of it.
Audition, rehearse, and perform a variety of different theatre genres in our 174sq.m dance studio as you gear up to take to the stage at a Professional Theatre in Oxfordshire for one of our end of term shows. Previous shows have included Sister Act, Aladdin, the Dolly Parton-inspired 9 to 5, and many of the department’s own unique productions.
You will develop a 'triple-threat' set of skills, honing your singing, dancing and acting techniques in a range of exciting thematic performances, with further opportunities to gain experience in directing and choreography.
When you’re not focusing on a production, you can learn from and enjoy masterclasses from guest performers and institutions, as we welcome back many of our talented Alumni who share their time working in productions such as Hamilton and Guys and Dolls.
Staff Profile: Amanda Isard
Amanda started dancing in local classes at the age of 3, and began assisting in classes after school from the age of 12.
After completing her GCSEs, Amanda attended The North London Dance Studio, achieving her ISTD teaching qualifications alongside a performance diploma.
On completing her teaching qualifications in 2001, Amanda began her teaching career working for local dance and performing arts schools. In 2006 she opened her own dance school based at our Abingdon campus.
Amanda continues to teach and choreograph alongside her work at the College, including choreographing for local pantomimes, shows, and the Oxfordshire Schools Dance Festival.
“The best bit about my job is getting to work with students who have such drive and ambition to succeed. Students gain so much from attending College, especially in this course where they are working to industry standards.
They develop resilience, professionalism, and are encouraged to take ownership of their own learning.
We aim to inspire the students to be the best they can be, ultimately achieving things they didn’t think were possible!”
Staff Profile: Calum James
Calum studied Performing Arts at Abingdon & Witney College before pursuing Musical Theatre (Triple Threat) at the University of Chichester Conservatoire. During his degree he had the opportunity to perform in a wide variety of shows, and to enrich his knowledge and experience in the world of musical theatre.
In 2021, Calum graduated with a first-class honours degree and secured a 6-month contract as a voice-over artist. Following this, Calum embarked on his teaching journey at Abingdon & Witney College.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is working closely with a talented group of students, providing support and guidance as they pursue their next steps, and hopefully, bringing them one step closer to their dreams.
Students on Performing Arts not only develop and enhance their knowledge and skills within dancing, acting, and singing but also emerge from the course as well-rounded individuals. We see our students flourish, becoming confident, hardworking, and resilient individuals who are excellent at both teamwork and leadership.
Each year students have the opportunity to perform in three shows in external venues, as well as undertake a variety of industry workshops.”
Staff Profile: Nicola Pratley
Nicola studied Performing Arts at Abingdon & Witney College from 2005-2007 and then progressed onto studying Musical Theatre at the Guildford School of Acting.
After graduating in 2010, Nicola moved to London and ‘lived the dream’, auditioning and performing onstage. Her first experience teaching at the College was when her predecessor called to ask if she could cover a lesson; shortly after, she became a full time Course Leader and hasn't looked back!
"The best part of my job is getting to direct students in a wide range of performances, seeing how well they progress within Musical Theatre and soar to new heights!
Students on Performing Arts get the opportunity to develop their professionalism and resilience with experienced and passionate teachers and guest lecturers working in the industry.
Ultimately, our students achieve things they never thought they could!"
Did you know?
Maia
Previous school:
Didcot Girls School
Although originally I was planning to go to sixth form, my parents told me to check out all my options first, so I came along to an open day at the college. I had the tour, spoke to tutors and fell in love with it – before I had left, I'd made my decision!
The main reason I'd recommend coming to college is that you're studying the one subject you really want to study and you're passionate about.
I started my course as a strong singer but in time I discovered my true individuality in detail. I worked on weaknesses and developed my acting and dancing, turning one strong talent into a triple threat.
Finlay
Previous school:
Wood Green School
The range of what I could do on my course was great, especially how it's evenly balanced between practical and written work.
Along with meeting and making new friends, the College has given me more experience in certain criteria of my subject that I haven't got much confidence in, and I had a lot of support when it came to looking for universities and drama schools after college.
Charlie
Previous school:
Didcot Girls School
In the dance studios and the theatre at Abingdon, I'm learning new skills each time I perform. I knew the College had a good reputation for performing arts and it's lived up to its reputation.
The variety of shows and the rehearsals that go with them present lots of challenges, which forces me a lot of time to act, sing and dance at the best of my ability.
This is improving my confidence each time I'm out there on the stage.
Your future career
Actor
Dancer
Singer
