Performance Design
| Award | Attendance | Study | Duration | Start | Domestic fees | International fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA (Hons) | On-Campus | Full-time | - 3 years | October | £9250 per year | £25200 per year |
Current fees for The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama can be found here: https://www.cssd.ac.uk/fees-and-funding/tuition-fees-and-additional-costs
About Performance Design, BA (Hons) - at Royal Central School of Speech and Drama
On the BA (Hons) Performance Design programme, you will:
- Develop your creative identity as a designer that can work across different performance types
- Opportunities to build industry networks, contacts and undertake professional placements
- The course prioritises sustainable practice to reflect the future industry
- You will experiment with new technology in design practices
- The course has developed multiple award-winning designers including recent Linbury Prize winners
Performance Design is an innovative programme that delves into contemporary and expanded performance design practices within the creative industries, whilst considering the impact of technological advancements, inclusive and collaborative practices and environmental sustainability. The programme covers a range of design disciplines including:
- Space and Environment
- Light
- Sound
- Costume
- Video and Extended Realities
The programme encourages practical, hands-on experimentation with materials and new technologies for a range of different live, screen and music contexts; including theatre, dance, site-specific and immersive experiences, events, exhibition and installation design, film/ TV, the experience economy and virtual and blended realities. You will engage in speculative, experimental, and realised projects, complemented by professional placements. The programme fosters cross-departmental and cross-programme collaborations, promoting a laboratory culture that prioritizes sustainable practices and values active and inclusive collaboration. You will be equipped with essential professional preparation and research competencies including critical reflection, contextual studies, freelancing in the creative industries and professional networks alongside skills such as dramaturgy, digital and 3D visualisation and practice based artistic research. You will also become part of a wide professional network through compulsory industry placements and project-based professional mentors, positioning you at the forefront of this dynamic field upon graduation.
Entry requirements
Contact Royal Central School of Speech and Drama to find course entry requirements.
Why study at Royal Central School of Speech and Drama
Specialist conservatoire training
The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama (Central) is a member of the University of London and one of the UK’s leading drama schools. Based in Swiss Cottage, London, Central offers specialist conservatoire-style training across performance, practice and production, preparing students for careers in theatre, film, TV and live events.
A focused learning environment
Central is a small, specialist institution, which means students benefit from small class sizes, close contact with tutors, and intensive practical training. Teaching is led by experienced practitioners and academics, with learning shaped around professional practice and real-world creative processes.
Career-focused education
At Central, future careers are built into the curriculum. Students graduate as specialists in their chosen field, with strong professional insight, industry experience and a clear understanding of how the creative industries work. Central’s long history and strong industry links help students build connections and develop sustainable careers across the performing arts.
Professional facilities and London location
Students train in specialist studios, rehearsal spaces and production facilities, including performance venues and technical workshops. Central’s London location places students close to the heart of the UK’s creative industries, offering access to theatres, production companies and professional opportunities throughout their studies.