Page 248 - Guildhall Coverage Book 2020-21

assets that can serve them globally and remotely. We also continue to expand the creative

practitioners and organisations we work with. LAMDA recently joined the Digital Creative

Network West, which has been created to promote collaboration between the creative and

technology sectors in west London. We’re also looking at opportunities with AR and VR

production companies to give our students practical experience.”

Quinn points out that artistic, technical and ethos-based elements of curriculum

development can dovetail effectively. “Our partnership with Audible has produced 12

original audio plays from some of the most exciting emerging writers including Matilda

Ibini, Yasmin Joseph, Eve Leigh, Joel Tan, Ross Willis and Ava Wong Davies.”

In September 2021, Guildhall will launch a revised BA (hons) Acting programme that,

according to vice principal and director of drama Orla O’Loughlin, will include modules

designed to embed progressive practice and prioritise inclusivity, representation and well-

being.

“The ‘self-led practice’ module will teach students how to work outside traditional

hierarchies and be proactive in creating and producing their own work while the ‘reflective

practice’ module will develop students’ understanding of their own artistry and the wider

critical context in which their practice exists, empowering them to be compassionate,

courageous and socially engaged.”

At St Mary’s University, head of drama Mark Griffin expresses a common theme shared by

many principals in relation to curriculum development. “The main change has been a freeing

up of methodology. Students no longer come to be ‘shaped’ but to ‘shape’ themselves in such
a way as to thrive across a diverse range of platforms.

“There are still core skills to learn and techniques to develop, but there’s much more focus on

each individual’s unique story, talent and skill set. We’re not simply trying to create

character type to suit the commercial needs of producers, but reinventing what it means to

be human with a view to stimulating and inspiring writers, directors and designers to explore
the myriad of under-represented stories.”