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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Performing Arts in Musical Theatre 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
93882  Diploma in Performing Arts in Musical Theatre 
ORIGINATOR
Oakfields College (Head Office) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 02 - Culture and Arts  Performing Arts 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  380  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2033-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The three-year musical theatre Diploma offers the serious musical theatre student the chance to develop into a fully prepared professional performer. The qualification offers intensive training with equal emphasis in all three disciplines of acting, singing and dancing in order to become a fully rounded "triple threat" performer. The qualification is industry linked (through content consultation and work integrated learning opportunities) and will promote the student into the world of performing arts with access to agents, casting directors and potential employers.

Rationale:
The rationale for this qualification is to produce competent, professional performing artists who contribute to the South African Performing Arts industry. It will equip qualifying learners with competencies in the performing arts in order to work successfully as singers, actors, dancers, choreographers, composers, directors, producers, teachers and writers.

The qualification aims to produce artists who are versatile, disciplined and professional in their approach to their work and who have a sound knowledge of the technical and artistic requirements of performance.

Arts and culture are fundamental to human society. Artists reflect the strength and weaknesses of our society and are powerful instruments for creating change. The Institution fulfils a significant role by providing the competencies necessary to ensure employment in the performing arts and to encourage qualified learners to manage their own careers in ways so as to generate employment and to invigorate the performing arts in South Africa. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning:
This qualification can be achieved wholly, or in part, through Recognition of Prior Learning. Evidence can be presented in a variety of forms, including previous international or local qualifications, reports, testimonials, mentoring, functions performed, portfolios, work records and performance records. As such, evidence should be judged according to the general principles of assessment.

Should equivalent competencies be demonstrated, learners may be advanced into a second or later year of study.

Entry Requirements:
A potential candidate must:
  • Hold a National Senior Certificate (NSC) granting access to Diploma studies.
    Or
  • Hold a Senior Certificate (obtained prior 2008) granting access to Diploma studies.
    Or
  • Hold a National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4.
    Or
  • A Higher Certificate in a cognate field of study.
    Or
  • An Advanced Certificate in a cognate field of study. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification consists of compulsory modules which are spread across NQF Levels 5, 6 and 7 totalling 380 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 5:
  • Academic Literacy, 5 Credits.
  • Business Communication, 10 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship, 10 Credits.
  • Drama I, 20 Credits.
  • Singing I, 20 Credits.
  • Music Studies, 10 Credits.
  • Dance Styles I, 10 Credits.
  • Dance Techniques I, 10 Credits.
  • Creative and Artistic Direction I, 5 Credits.
  • Art History I, 10 Credits.
  • Musical Theatre Studies I, 10 Credits.

    Total Credits at NQF Level 5: 120.

    Modules at NQF Level 6:
  • Art Administration, 10 Credits.
  • Drama II, 20 Credits.
  • Music Studies II, 10 Credits.
  • Singing II, 20 Credits.
  • Dance Styles II, 10 Credits.
  • Dance Techniques II, 10 Credits.
  • Creative and Artistic Direction II, 10 Credits.
  • Art History II, 10 Credits.
  • Musical Theatre Studies II, 10 Credits.
  • Performance II, 10 Credits.

    Total Credits at Level 6: 120

    Modules at NQF Level 7:
  • Stage Craft, 10 Credits.
  • Drama III, 20 Credits.
  • Music Studies III, 10 Credits.
  • Singing II, 20 Credits.
  • Dance Styles III, 10 Credits.
  • Dance Techniques III, 10 Credits.
  • Creative and Artistic Direction III, 10 Credits.
  • Art History III, 10 Credits.
  • Musical Theatre Studies III, 10 Credits.
  • Performance III, 20 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning, 10 Credits.

    Total Credits at NQF Level 7: 140. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate a systematic and well-rounded knowledge and understanding of important theories, scholarly positions and basic methodologies of musical theatre.
    2. Apply entrepreneurial and management skills in order to function as a professional musical theatre practitioner.
    3. Show competence with his/her critical attitude and communication skills to participate and contribute to the economy and general society.
    4. Conduct formal and stylistic analysis of musical theatre works.
    5. Display a fundamental understanding of the effects that historical, socio-political and cultural forces have had on contemporary musical theatre.
    6. Have the capacity to interact effectively with others, operate in variable and unfamiliar contexts with responsibility, and become increasingly self-directed.
    7. Act innovatively and pro-actively within a career.
    8. Demonstrate the capability to apply advanced musical theatre techniques, as well as the theory of musical theatre, which are appropriate to follow a career within the musical theatre. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Different, relevant theories used and applied to the methodology of Musical Theatre are identified.
  • Various theories relevant to the methodology of Musical Theatre are defined.
  • Firm understanding of the various and relevant scholarly positions in the theory and methodology of Musical Theatre is demonstrated.
  • Theories and scholarly positions to the learner's own musical theatre practices are critically analysed and applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Firm knowledge and understanding of the various concepts and principles of entrepreneurship related to the musical theatre environment are demonstrated.
  • Correct management skills to various scenarios in the musical theatre environment are applied.
  • A business plan is designed and created.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Relevant knowledge and understanding of the communication skills needed to participate in the Musical Theatre world of work are demonstrated.
  • Relevant knowledge and understanding of the attitudes and communication skills needed to participate and contribute to society in general are demonstrated.
  • Necessary communication documents such as a Curriculum Vitae, memorandum and business letter for personal and business use are created.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Relevant knowledge and understanding of the various forms and styles of musical theatre works are demonstrated as used in the industry.
  • Various forms and styles of musical theatre works, used in the past and present musical theatre industry are identified.
  • Various forms and styles of musical theatre works used in the past and presently in musical theatre industry are critically analysed.
  • Critical essays on the various forms and styles of musical theatre works used in the past and presently in musical theatre industry are written.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Relevant knowledge and understanding of the different historical events that have had an effect on contemporary musical theatre are demonstrated.
  • Relevant knowledge and understanding of the different socio-political and cultural forces that have had an effect on contemporary musical theatre are demonstrated.
  • Various historical, socio-political and cultural events that took place and determine the extent and impact each event had on contemporary musical theatre are critically analysed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • The ability to make responsible decision in terms of time management and teamwork is demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Own initiative is used to prepare for a future career.
  • Confidence and own abilities are demonstrated through self marketing.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Relevant knowledge and understanding of the theory of musical theatre and how the theory applies to self individually are demonstrated.
  • Relevant knowledge and understanding of the various techniques taught and used in musical theatre are demonstrated.
  • Most appropriate and relevant musical theatre techniques are determined to suit the different scenarios that the learners are exposed to.
  • Various techniques are applied practically to succeed in their performances and future careers in the musical theatre industry.

    Integrated Assessment:
    In the assessment strategy, competence must be demonstrated and assessed through a variety of options.

    Formative Assessment:
    Formative assessment methods include Class tests, Semester Tests, Practical projects/assignments (subject dependent), Research and project-based assignments.

    Formative assessment is useful in terms of assessment of Critical Cross-Field Outcomes, as these are often difficult to assess during summative assessments. Gaps in terms of knowledge and abilities can be identified with individuals at this stage and appropriate action planned.

    Summative Assessment:
    Summative assessment includes Final Examinations and Final Production. This assessment is conducted at the end of each study cycle of learning; and is used to determine whether the student is competent in the required knowledge and skills. Student-readiness determines whether the student will qualify for the respective examinations. It is required that the assignments are submitted in order to write an examination in each module. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification compares favourably with various other institutes in both the United Kingdom and Canada.

    United Kingdom: Trinity College London:
    This is a three year vocational qualification, with the emphasis of the course on the artistic, creative, technical and professional skills that a performing artist needs in order to prepare for a varied and high-level career in musical theatre. Course work will include singing, acting, dance and supporting professional studies. Candidates need to audition successfully for a course that has been validated to provide the Diploma by Trinity College London. Each validated course has its own unique identity and will provide the Diploma within its own curriculum.

    The Qualifications consists of the following modules:
  • Technical skills in Professional Musical Theatre - Singing.
  • Technical skills in Professional Musical Theatre - Dance as a key skill in two dance genres.
  • Technical skills in Professional Musical Theatre - Acting as a key skill.
  • Supporting technical skills in Professional Musical Theatre - Dance.
  • Supporting technical skills in Professional Musical Theatre - Acting.
  • Performance in Professional Musical Theatre.
  • Additional Professional skills and practice in Professional Musical Theatre.
  • Integrated Professional Studies in Professional Musical Theatre.

    Urdang Academy:
    The Urdang Academy is an established performance college that focuses on musical theatre and dance qualifications. They are recognised by Trinity College and accredited by the council for Dance Education and Training. The Urdang Diploma in Professional Musical Theatre is a full time, three year course. The Urdang Performers' Diploma course encompasses all aspects of the performing arts and looks to give each student an excellent grounding in Singing, Dancing and Acting, alongside developing charisma, individuality and performance skill. The Urdang Academy provides a supportive environment that fosters artistic, intellectual and personal development with all its students. The intense, rigorous and practical training is enhanced by contextual study that allows the student to understand historical, stylistic and professional aspects of the industry. This holistic approach prepares each student to embark on a successful and fulfilled life in the arts, with the ability to develop a long and varied career.

    The first year of studies consists of the following modules:
  • Classical Ballet.
  • Technical Jazz.
  • Musical Theatre.
  • Jazz.
  • Contemporary.
  • Street.
  • Tap.
  • Pilates.
  • Singing Technique.
  • Singing Repertoire.
  • Acting.
  • Acting through Song.
  • Voice (Accent, Articulation).
  • Choir.
  • Integrated Performance.
  • Accent reduction for overseas students.
  • Healthier Performer.
  • Music Theory for the Performer.
  • History of Dance.
  • History of Musical Theatre.

    In the second year the learner can choose from four different tracks:

    Track A-Years 2 and 3:
  • Singing Technique.
  • Singing Repertoire.
  • Acting (including a Shakespeare module).
  • Acting through Song.
  • Voice (Accent and Articulation).
  • Choir.
  • Acting for Audition.
  • Singing for Audition.
  • Integrated Performance.
  • Classical Ballet.
  • Technical Jazz.
  • Musical Theatre Jazz.
  • Contemporary.
  • Tap.
  • Street.
  • Acro.
  • Partner Work.
  • Production Skills.
  • Performance Project.
  • Dance Production.
  • Musical Presentation.
  • Graduate Revue Showcase.

    Track B - Years 2 and 3:
  • Classical Ballet.
  • Technical Jazz.
  • Musical Theatre Jazz.
  • Contemporary.
  • Tap.
  • Street.
  • Acro.
  • Partner Work.
  • Singing Technique.
  • Acting.
  • Acting through Song.
  • Voice (Accent/Articulation).
  • Choir.
  • Acting for Audition.
  • Singing for Audition.
  • Integrated Performance.
  • Accent reduction for overseas students.
  • Production Skills.
  • Performance Project.
  • Dance Production.
  • Musical Presentation.
  • Graduate Revue Showcase.

    Track C- Years 2 and 3:
  • Singing Technique.
  • Singing Repertoire.
  • Acting.
  • Voice (Phonetics/Accent/Articulation).
  • Acting through Song.
  • Integrated Performance.
  • Choir.
  • Operetta Singing and Acting Master Classes.
  • Acting for Audition.
  • Singing for Audition.
  • Play Rehearsals.
  • Body Conditioning.
  • Classical Ballet.
  • Technical Jazz.
  • Contemporary.
  • Street or Tap.
  • Musical or Play for Track C only.
  • Musical Theatre presentation.
  • Graduate Musical Theatre Showcase.
  • Production Skills.
  • Performance Project.

    Track D-Years 2 and 3:
  • Street.
  • Hip Hop (to include styles such as Popping, Locking, Breaking, Waacking, Krump, Freestyle and Tutting).
  • Commercial.
  • Technical Jazz.
  • Tap.
  • Contemporary.
  • Choreography.
  • Classical Ballet.
  • Partner Work.
  • Musical Theatre Jazz.
  • Acro.
  • Acting.
  • Acting Through Song.
  • Singing.
  • Acting Through Dance.
  • Integrated Performance.
  • Voice.
  • Choreography.
  • Music Appreciation.
  • Music Editing.
  • Dance Production.
  • Musical Presentation.
  • Graduate Revue Showcase.

    Canada:

    Capilano University:
    The Musical Theatre qualification is a three-year career preparation course for those learners who are serious about pursuing a career in the performing arts. This qualification will provide a thorough grounding in the areas of acting, dancing, singing, theatre history and criticism, technical theatre and acting for film and television. Faculty members are drawn from the professional theatre industry; therefore they are recognized for their experience and skills as instructors in the Musical Theatre qualification. Learners will refine performance skills in acting, singing, dancing, and acting for film and television, and will receive training in audition techniques and in how to conduct themselves professionally. This comprehensive training as well as the opportunity to work alongside industry professionals will increase the chances of success once the learners enter the industry.

    Conclusion:
    The qualification compares favourably with the selected in terms of outcomes, modules and duration. The assessment ensures that learners acquire skills, knowledge and understanding needed as a professional actor, dancer, performing artist, or to work in a production role that supports performance. The qualification like the comparison also prepares learners wishing to pursue further studies or careers in performing arts. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification allows for both vertical and horizontal articulation with other institution offering the same or related qualification.

    In terms of horizontal articulation, the Diploma in Performing Arts (Musical Theatre) articulates to another tertiary level institution, where successful exemption for relevant modules on the basis of modules passed can be granted.

    The following qualifications at NQF Level 6 have been identified for horizontal progression:
  • National Diploma in Musical Theatre.
  • National Diploma in Dance.
  • Diploma in Community Music in Theatre and Dance.

    The following qualifications at NQF Level 7 have been identified for vertical progression:
  • Bachelor of Technology in Musical Theatre.
  • Bachelor of Technology in Dance.
  • Bachelor of Arts in Dance.
  • Bachelor of Arts in Drama.
  • Bachelor of Arts in Drama and Theatre Arts.
  • Bachelor of Arts in Drama Studies.
  • Bachelor of Arts in Music and Drama Performance.
  • Bachelor of Arts in Performing and Visual Arts.
  • Bachelor of Live Performance.
  • Advanced Diploma in Performer's Licentiate (UPLM) (in any approved instrument and singing).
  • Advanced Diploma in Teacher's Licentiate (UTLM) (in any approved instrument and singing). 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2015. 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Oakfields College (Head Office) 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.