Performing Arts and VET Courses in Brisbane
ACPA offers diverse performing arts courses, as well as Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses. Our programs focus on upholding our rich heritage of Indigenous performances in a modern context. All programs run full-time over 12 months and in four terms aligned with the Queensland School System.
We hold training, dance, acting and musical courses at our Brisbane campus.
Our Performance Arts Courses in Brisbane
Diploma of Performing Arts
Develop your artistic style and create a strong foundation for the performance arts.
Advanced Diploma of Performing Arts
Master advanced artistry and technical skills within your chosen genre.
A Commitment to Culture and Tradition
ACPA honours our rich tradition in a contemporary context. As the world continues to progress forward, our stories should not be left behind. The story of Australia is an Indigenous story, and we are determined to preserve and nurture it by bringing it to the stage—and training the people who will breathe life into it.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures not only narrate the journey of our people; they also teach us timeless values that serve as the pillar of Australian society. This intangible and priceless heritage has been passed down to us through dance, song and acting, and we are duty-bound to hand it over to the next generation of Australian artists.
At ACPA, we don’t just study and conduct Indigenous performances; we revere them. Our performing arts courses are guided by strong cultural ethics that pay homage to the life of our ancestors. We preserve authenticity while achieving modern showmanship, demonstrating the beauty of the past through a contemporary lens.
Our Performance Program
Performance is the focus of our courses in Brisbane. Together with musical theatre directors, instructors and show-makers, you will produce works for public presentations. Your projects include:
- A year-end show at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre
- Corporate and community performances
The audience counts not only your friends and family but also industry agents looking for the next best talents, as well as spectators with a true passion for both contemporary arts and Indigenous performances.
ACPA has built a reputation as an exemplary performing arts school in Brisbane, so students are often invited to perform in events and venues, such as:
- Brisbane Festival
- Brisbane Powerhouse
- Queensland Theatre Company
- Queensland Music Festival
- Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts
- National Institute of Dramatic Art
Academics
Our performing arts and VET courses cover both theoretical and practical lessons in different fields of performing arts. You will be equipped with the technical skills needed for a career on stage or screen. The instructors are not only master artists but also positive role models with real-world experience.
Apart from technique and musicality, you will develop the strength, confidence and self-assurance to perform in front of an audience. You will learn values like the commitment to improvement, respect for the piece you’re performing and artistic responsibility.
Assessments include performances, presentations, research papers, essay writing, class participation and more.
By completing our performing arts training, you’ll be able to pursue a career or more intensive training as an actor, dancer, singer or musician.
A Supportive Environment
To produce artists of high calibre, ACPA creates a supportive atmosphere that upholds study and life balance, especially for students who might need to adapt to city life.
ACPA provides academic support to students who might need extra help, to ensure everyone is on the right path to succeed:
- Language literacy
- Numeracy literacy
- Computer literacy
- Time management
- Employment preparation
We also recognise the importance of looking after our students’ mental health and emotional well-being. Only by training the body and mind can we create artists that embody the true Australian artistic spirit.ACPA provides culturally appropriate support in problems like:
- Homesickness
- Adapting to their new lifestyle
- Meeting local community and elders
- Relationships and family
- Getting a job
General, mental, and sexual health
Be Part of the ACPA Legacy
Study performing arts, and discover how far your passions will take you. Book an audition at our Brisbane campus or submit an online audition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are the fees?
The fees vary depending on the course you will be attending. ACPA offers both Fee-for-Service and government-subsidised or funded courses. Please check our Fees Page for more information.
What do the fees include?
The fees will include tuition and tutorials, facility orientations, study guides, workbooks, internal student counselling, the student identification card, GST, and a copy of all completed documents.
Do I have to audition?
Yes. A successful audition confirms enrolment. You may book an audition at our Brisbane campus or submit an online audition. Please check our Audition Page for more information.
What do I have to prepare for auditions?
For dance, you will choreograph two contrasting dance pieces in your chosen dance styles. For music, you will prepare two contrasting pieces (sung or played). For stage and screen, you will perform one classical and one contemporary monologue.