Acrosophy

Performing Arts Personal Statement Examples

  • 1 Personal Statement Example Links
  • 2 Career Opportunities
  • 3 UK Admission Requirements
  • 4 UK Earnings Potential For Performing Artists
  • 5 Similar Courses in UK
  • 6 UK Curriculum
  • 7 Alumni Network

Personal Statement Example Links

  • Personal Statement Example 1
  • Personal Statement Example 2
  • Personal Statement Example 3
  • Personal Statement Example 4
  • Personal Statement Example 5
  • Personal Statement Example 6

Ever been captivated by the magic of the stage, the thrill of performance, and the power of storytelling through movement, music, and drama? Fascinated by the prospect of honing your artistic talents and expressing yourself creatively?

If so, a degree in Performing Arts could be your ideal journey. This dynamic field will immerse you in a world of dance, theatre, music, and performance art, helping you refine your craft and captivate audiences.

Performing Arts provides students with an in-depth understanding of the various aspects of the performing arts, such as acting, singing, dancing, and music. Through this course, students will gain the necessary knowledge and skills to become successful performers, as well as the ability to create and interpret works of art. F

Furthermore, the course provides students with the opportunity to explore the history and culture of the performing arts, and to learn about the different styles and techniques used in the industry. The course also provides students with the opportunity to network with professionals in the field, and to gain valuable experience in the performing arts.

By taking this course, students will be able to develop their creative and technical skills, as well as their understanding of the performing arts. Ultimately, this course is an excellent choice for students who are looking to pursue a career in the performing arts.

👍 When writing a personal statement : Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.

Career Opportunities

A degree in performing arts can open the door to a variety of career opportunities.

1. Actor/Actress: Actors and actresses use their skills to bring characters to life on stage and on screen. This can include roles in film, television, theatre, and even voice acting.

2. Director: Directors are responsible for the creative vision of a production, from the initial concept to the final product. They are responsible for casting, rehearsing, and guiding the actors through the performance.

3. Playwright: Playwrights create original works for the stage, from full-length plays to one-act plays and musicals.

4. Choreographer: Choreographers create the movement and dance sequences for a production. They are responsible for creating the steps, teaching them to the performers, and ensuring that the movements are executed correctly.

5. Costume Designer: Costume designers are responsible for creating the costumes for a production. They must be familiar with the period, style, and culture of the production to ensure that the costumes are accurate and appropriate.

6. Lighting Designer: Lighting designers create the lighting plan for a production. They must be familiar with the technical aspects of lighting, as well as the artistic side of creating the right atmosphere for the performance.

7. Stage Manager: Stage managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of a production. They must be organized and able to manage a variety of tasks, including coordinating rehearsals, overseeing technical elements, maintaining the show’s production schedule, communicating with all members of the production, and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the cast and crew.

UK Admission Requirements

The entry criteria for the University of Kent’s Performing Arts course varies depending on the specific course chosen. Generally, applicants will need a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including English and Maths, and two A-Levels at grade C or above. In addition, applicants may be asked to provide evidence of their performance skills, such as a portfolio of work or an audition.

This entry criteria is similar to other university courses in the performing arts field. Most universities will require a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including English and Maths, and two A-Levels at grade C or above. However, some universities may ask for higher grades at GCSE or A-Level , and some may also ask for evidence of performance skills.

UK Earnings Potential For Performing Artists

The average earnings for someone with a degree in performing arts can vary significantly depending on the type of job they pursue. Generally speaking, those in the performing arts industry can expect to earn an average salary of around £25,000 per annum. This figure can vary depending on the type of job, the location, and the level of experience.

In terms of trends, the job market for performing arts professionals is expected to remain stable over the next few years. There is a growing demand for skilled professionals in the industry, which could lead to increased salaries and job opportunities. Additionally, the rise of digital media and streaming services has opened up a wide range of opportunities for those with a degree in performing arts.

Similar Courses in UK

Other related university courses in the UK include:

1. Music Performance: This course focuses on the practical skills of music performance, allowing students to develop their instrumental and vocal technique, as well as their musicianship and understanding of music theory.

2. Music Technology: This course is designed to give students an understanding of the technology used in the music industry, such as recording and production techniques, sound engineering, and music software.

bThis course focuses on the business side of the music industry, covering topics such as music marketing, music law, and music finance.

The key difference between these courses and a performing arts course is that the latter focuses on the practical skills of live performance, such as acting, singing, and dancing, while the former courses focus on the technical and business aspects of music.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in a university course in performing arts may vary depending on the institution, but typically include:

  • Theatre History: A comprehensive exploration of the history of theatre, from ancient Greece to the present day.
  • Acting: Students learn the fundamentals of acting, such as script analysis, character development, and improvisation.
  • Directing: Students learn the fundamentals of directing, such as script analysis, blocking, and working with actors.
  • Playwriting: Students learn the fundamentals of playwriting, such as structure, dialogue, and characterization.
  • Movement: Students learn the fundamentals of physical theatre, such as improvisation, stage combat, and mime.
  • Voice and Speech: Students learn the fundamentals of vocal production, such as vocal range and articulation.
  • Design: Students learn the fundamentals of design, such as set design, costume design, and lighting design.Stage Management: Students learn the fundamentals of stage management, such as scheduling, budgeting, and safety protocols.

Hands-on experience and practical work are an integral part of a university course in performing arts. Students will typically participate in a variety of workshops, rehearsals, and performances, as well as attend lectures and seminars.

Alumni Network

Notable alumni from the university’s performing arts course include actor and singer Idina Menzel, who is best known for her Tony Award-winning performance as Elphaba in the Broadway musical Wicked.

She has also starred in the hit Broadway musical Rent, as well as appearing in the Disney movie Frozen. Idina is currently starring in the Broadway musical If/Then, and she is also an accomplished singer, having released multiple solo albums and performing around the world.

The university also boasts a number of other notable alumni from the performing arts course, including actor and singer Jesse L. Martin, who is best known for his role as Detective Ed Green on the long-running television series Law & Order. He has also appeared on Broadway in Rent and The Merchant of Venice.

The university offers a number of alumni events and networking opportunities for its performing arts graduates. These include the annual alumni reunion, which is held in the spring, and the alumni mixer, which is held in the fall. In addition, the university offers a number of alumni-focused workshops and seminars throughout the year, as well as special alumni events such as the alumni film festival, which showcases the work of alumni filmmakers.

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personal statement for performing arts college

Undergraduate Personal Statement Example: Drama and Theatre Studies

personal statement for performing arts college

Reading examples of personal statements can be valuable when applying to a university or college course. 

After all, personal statement examples can teach you how to write and structure your application, and you can quickly learn how to write a personal statement by examining others.

But with so many university personal statement examples available, how do you know if you’re reading a good one?

Undergraduate personal statements should highlight relevant academic and practical experience, academic skills, ambitions and suitability for the degree field. This undergraduate personal statement example for Drama and Theatre Studies clearly illustrates these three critical elements.

Undergraduate degree personal statement examples are sometimes referred to as personal mission statements or statements of purpose , so if you’re tasked with writing a personal mission statement, the following example will work for you.

I’ve broken down this personal statement example section by section, with a commentary on each element. 

That way, you’ll see its strengths and weaknesses and get some inspiration for your own personal statement .

Once you’ve read the personal statement example and analysis, you can download a pdf of the whole document to use as inspiration for your own!

personal statement for performing arts college

Personal Statement Example: Introduction

“Performance holds a mirror up to the world and asks questions that we may be too scared to ask individually. It will always be integral to society, and part of that power comes from the force of the ensemble. Studying drama has made me observe life through a different lens and harness the vital tool of the imagination. My secondary school had a theatre in the round with lighting rigs and the opportunity to create varied set designs with a devoted staff team. It was here that I learnt so much of what I know and where my inspired appreciation for performing arts became something I never wanted to stop doing.”

My Commentary and Analysis 

There are lots of different elements present in the first couple of sentences of this undergraduate personal statement example. The writer quite succinctly offers their own definition of drama and links this to an element of the subject inherent in most degree courses.

They go on to give a sense of their personal connection with the subject and then reference some quite generalised experiences. This allows them to sow the seeds of their long-term engagement and reiterate their commitment to the subject.

However, I would suggest that this is a relatively vague opening. There are very few specifics of terminology or experience, and this would have been an excellent opportunity to connect their views with an artist or practitioner they admired. This would have shown a bit more depth of knowledge and engagement.

The term ‘much of what I know’ is also quite vague. The writer could have identified some practical skills or techniques and discussed the value of what they’ve learned.

Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that Drama and Theatre Studies is largely a practical and experiential subject. Any personal statement should make some reference to the writer’s acting skills, as this is a key indicator of suitability for most courses.

If you’re struggling with your personal statement introduction, check out my article on how to write perfect opening paragraphs here .

personal statement for performing arts college

Personal Statement Example: Section 2

“I learnt how to balance a full schedule through participating in extracurricular opportunities. Directing a play at fourteen exposed the complexities of preproduction roles and how an impact is achieved through different mediums. Around the same age, I began duo Vanguard acting lessons, where I was first introduced to the idea of exploring characters and how to portray them. I later progressed onto solo LAMDA examinations, achieving grade 8 with honours. I was beginning to learn the practice of ensemble work, and joining the local theatre youth group allowed me to expand my horizons beyond the curriculum. This bought to light the uniting force of theatre, a safe space for everybody which nurtures growth in creative spirit and confidence.

In year two of BTEC performing arts, with a cast of five, I curated an immersive Oedipus adaptation that propelled the audience into ancient Greece. This was a tumultuous project, where a new challenge seemed to arise after the last was solved. I poured an abundance of energy and care into the process, and it’s my proudest performance. This collaborative process was special to be part of, and I harnessed the skills I learnt for film projects on Art and Design Foundation. Acting in seven student films in spring familiarised me with on-set practices, and I often offered direction or design ideas. Used to working with a variety of people, I quickly improvised and built dynamics with cast members on the day of production. I have since been asked back to act in more recent projects.”

My Commentary and Analysis

The writer has done a good job of summarising their experience within the subject. Showing a range of experiences within directing, acting and studying show a breadth of engagement over time, which is another strong indicator of their suitability.

It would have been even more effective if the writer had outlined the value of these experiences in relation to their ambitions for a degree. They could also have used these elements to outline how suitable they were for a degree course by making links between their skills and typical course demands.

Referring to their BTEC course makes it clear that the candidate has a good range of experience at a higher level. Again, however, there is no real indication of the skills the writer used. Devising, editing, improvisation, directing, design? Which practitioners were used as inspiration? What academic research was carried out in the project, and why is this useful in relation to a degree?

The reader won’t really be very interested in whether it’s the writer’s proudest performance, and in an undergraduate personal statement, which is limited to a low number of characters, this is a bit of a waste of space. They want to know how it has inspired the writer or given them skills that will allow them to be successful in relation to the courses they’re applying for. 

A good way for the writer to communicate this is to write about how they overcame the challenges they mentioned.

If you’d like to learn more about how to structure your personal statement or statement of purpose , check out my awesome Personal Statement Template eBook here . It’s full of detailed examples of what to include!

personal statement for performing arts college

Personal Statement Example: Section 3

“I explored the breadth of my creativity on the foundation but focused on photography, film, and textiles. In film classes, I learned more about production by trying out directing, scriptwriting, and cinematography. I frequently discussed TV and film analysis with an interest in the symbolism of cinematography. The creative environment changed my perception of artistry. I now use art as personal documentation, amongst other things, such as the sketchbook I took interrailing in summer, and beginning to create my own clothes. Another form of self-care I indulge in is yoga, where diligence and consistency in practice are vital.”

It’s always sensible to reference related aspects of your previous courses of study, but only if they are relevant. Here, the courses taken are largely relevant to a Drama and Theatre Studies degree, but the outcomes don’t particularly develop the reader’s understanding of the writer’s suitability for the course.

Many of the elements referenced are valuable components of an actor’s preparation, but I don’t see significant justifications made between these and how they make the writer a suitable candidate.

There is little tangible sense of what’s been learned or its value.

References to self-care are welcomed, and certainly, the yoga practice speaks to the writer’s level of physical fitness and stamina, but it is all quite vague and undeveloped.

This is beginning to drift from a personal statement about Drama to a general description of accomplishments, preferences and experiences. Given the highly competitive field, it’s unlikely that the content so far would result in an offer being made, although the practical audition process is critical in this discipline.

Check out lots more examples of personal statements here , and see how they can inspire your application!

personal statement for performing arts college

Personal Statement Example: Section 4

“Now taking a year out, I am a full-time waitress and planning my route for solo travelling around Asia. Taking three essay subjects at A-level developed my critical analysis skills and written voice. In English Language, I thoroughly enjoyed cross-examining articles from different decades for an independent research project. Amongst other topics in Classics, I studied the origins of theatre from religious practice to the earliest examples of tragedy in the late 5 th century. I am an avid reader and have continued to learn through books such as Stanislavksy’s An Actor Prepares , Stephen Fry’s Mythos and Bill Bryson’s Mother Tongue.”

My Commentary and Analysis: 

There is some reference here to the value of related studies, as mention is made of transferable skills. In that sense, the content has a degree of merit. Gap year plans are only worth including if they have a direct and positive bearing on the courses being applied for. 

What the reader really wants to understand about a gap year is how that time will be spent building skills, knowledge or contacts that will increase the applicant’s chances of successfully completing the degree courses (and hopefully adding value to the experiences of their peers).

There’s mention here of undertaking a research project, but no clarity on which skills or techniques were used, which lessens the impact. 

Published works are referenced, which is positive, but no arguments are made, and there’s no discussion of the contents. Nothing here is developed, and there’s no evidence that the writer has actually read the books. 

If you mention having read books, don’t just write a list. Pick a couple and explain their impact on you, how your thinking has been altered or how valuable you find the knowledge they contain. 

The one thing that all successful personal statements have in common is that they are concise, engaging and accurate in spelling, punctuation and grammar. Consequently, I always recommend Grammarly to my students and clients. 

It’s an outstanding tool for ensuring your personal statement is rich with detail whilst hitting those all-important word limits. Check out the free version of Grammarly here , or hit the banner for more information.

personal statement for performing arts college

Personal Statement Example: Conclusion

“Through academic learning and practical development, I have built a strong foundation of knowledge about the Performing Arts industry. In this industry, one never stops learning. Every individual you meet or place you go to is an opportunity for a fresh perspective. Immersion in performance studies would help me realise how I can bring my varied skills into what I offer as an artist. The next stepping stone towards my career is a multidisciplinary course allowing me to explore pathways whilst sharpening my academic and performance skills.”

The writer uses some relevant vocabulary here, summarising the importance of the course to their ambitions. This is a sound idea, but quite limited in detail.

What are the writer’s actual ambitions beyond the course? How will the course be ideal for bridging the gap to a creative career? What kind of areas might the writer want to work in, and how might some of the general modules of the courses be of value?

In summary, I feel there needs to be a far stronger focus on the writer’s acting work, the precise skills developed and exactly how these will be of value on the course. For a Drama application, there’s not much actual evidence of engagement or an understanding of the industry or the creative sector as a whole.

For more great advice, check out my article on writing an excellent final personal statement paragraph here .

personal statement for performing arts college

Click here or on the banner below to get your free download of this complete personal statement example . 

personal statement for performing arts college

Whether you’re looking for personal mission statement examples or an example of personal purpose statement, I hope this personal statement example has been helpful. Above all, I wish you every success in your academic career. 

If you’d like to work with me to develop your personal statement 1:1 and write a powerful mission statement, I’d be delighted to hear from you. 

Find out about my personal statement support services by clicking here or on the image below.

personal statement for performing arts college

Research and content verified by Personal Statement Planet .

David Hallen

I've worked in the Further Education and University Admissions sector for nearly 20 years as a teacher, department head, Head of Sixth Form, UCAS Admissions Advisor, UK Centre Lead and freelance personal statement advisor, editor and writer. And now I'm here for you...

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  • Performing arts personal statements

Personal Statement - Theatre Studies

Theatre studies personal statement.

Theatre is a living art-form, which is constantly evolving. Theatre is something that one person alone can influence, you don't need to have anything other than an imagination to create a performance or to influence people's ideas, and this fact truly excites me. I have been acting on stage since the age of nine, and still find performing a thrilling experience, due to the fact that theatre has the power to emotionally affect people, and it is exhilarating to be a part of something this powerful. Working in front of a live audience is the most unique experience I have ever felt; anything can happen, so you have to be alert and work with fellow cast members as a team to ensure that if something does go wrong, that you can pick it up to make it seem part of the action. Theatre is a living thing, and this quality is part of why I wish to make a career out of it. I feel that studying theatre at degree level would help me to widen my understanding of its history and extend my knowledge of practitioners. I found learning about Artaud, Berkoff and Brecht in Theatre Studies engrossing, and I enjoyed performing in Strindberg's 'A Dream Play'. I look forward to developing my skills as an actor, such as learning to use different methods in creating my performances. Studying Performing Arts and Theatre Studies at AS Level has allowed me to improve and acquire valuable skills such as communication, quick thinking and time-management when working to create a performance; I have also been able to gain negotiation skills while working in groups. My work in English Language and Geography has helped me to obtain analytical skills, and taught me to question things we might overlook at first glance, whether it is in texts or the world around us.

My love of theatre has enabled me to research outside the course, and I have read 'The Theatre and its Double' by Artaud and 'The Empty Space' by Peter Brook. I found their views on theatre very interesting. I also enjoy watching and performing Shakespeare. I went to see 'Henry V' at the Royal Exchange in Manchester for the second time recently; and I played Romeo in the college production of 'Romeo and Juliet.'

I started performing with local theatre companies at the age of nine, and have had several major roles since the age of eleven. I perform in an average of two productions per year, and this passion has allowed me to hone my skills as an actor; in the same process I have acquired organisational and intra-personal skills. I have been playing bass guitar for the past three years and have had classical singing lessons for the past two years, these activities have helped me to control my focus for long periods of time. I find that reading helps me to relax, so I read a lot and am a member of the college book group. Recently I have read 'Red Dragon' and 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris, and 'Son of a Witch' by Gregory Maguire. I enjoy books because they allow me to use my imagination in a way which allows me to escape from the issues of every-day life for a while. I am on the committee of the theatre group, F******** M*******, as the member representative. This requires me to make sure that the member's views are taken into account at meetings. I am approachable and friendly, and I think this makes it easy for the members to come to me with any problems they have.

After higher education I wish to pursue a career in the theatre. My ambition is to perform in straight plays and musicals, as I would like to use my skills as a singer on stage. Studying my art at a higher level would be very beneficial to me in terms of progressing as a performer, and I have a lot to give to the course as an engaging student who works well in a team.

Universities applied to:

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personal statement for performing arts college

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What to include in your dance personal statement

  • Convey your passion for dance: tutors really want to get a sense of your passion and love of dance through what you say in your personal statement. But demonstrate it with examples and experience, don't just say you're passionate. In fact, try to convey your passion without actually using the word 'passion'.
  • Ditch the clichés: De Montfort University stresses the importance of not resorting to the clichés so many students come out with – like 'I was born to dance' or 'I come alive on stage'.
  • Evidence of your interest in dance: according to De Montfort, selectors want to see your 'genuine enthusiasm for all aspects of performance and an appreciation for each of the factors that contribute to it' along with some examples of how your own experiences or wider reading about dance have fed into this.
  • Relevant extracurricular experience: if you’re involved in a dance group or you’ve had first-hand experience of planning and performing a production, for instance, describe and reflect on what you learned from this.
  • Your analytical abilities: tutors want to hear about performances you’ve watched and – crucially – how you've analysed them yourself or developed an opinion about the overall interpretation, or how a specific element of it made an impact on you and why.
  • Any wider experience of ‘movement disciplines’: For its dance and drama with physical theatre course, Edge Hill University is looking for you to demonstrate your wider experience of 'movement disciplines', which could include sport, martial arts, circus skills or 'dance in any style'. It could therefore add further impact to your statement if you can link any activities like these to what motivates you to study your chosen course.

Check out our advice on writing your personal statement and find out more about careers in the creative arts .

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