Royal Academy of Dramatic Art
History
The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) is a world-renowned drama school located in London, England. It was established in 1904 by Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree, an actor-manager who sought to create a new standard of training for the dramatic arts. The academy was granted a Royal Charter in 1920, and King George V became its first patron.
The academy's early years were marked by a focus on the classics, particularly the works of Shakespeare. This emphasis on classical training continues to be a hallmark of RADA's curriculum. The academy's reputation grew rapidly, and by the 1920s, it was recognized as one of the leading drama schools in the world.
In the 1930s, RADA expanded its curriculum to include film and radio training, reflecting the changing landscape of the performing arts. During the Second World War, the academy was temporarily closed, but it reopened in 1945 and quickly reestablished its position as a leading institution for dramatic arts training.
Curriculum
RADA offers a range of courses, including a three-year BA (Hons) in Acting, a two-year Foundation Course in Acting, a one-year MA in Theatre Lab, and a variety of short and part-time courses. The academy's curriculum is rigorous and comprehensive, covering all aspects of performance, from voice and movement to text analysis and character development.
The BA (Hons) in Acting is the academy's flagship course. It is designed to prepare students for a career in the professional theatre, film, and television industries. The course is highly competitive, with only a small number of applicants accepted each year.
The Foundation Course in Acting is a two-year program that provides an intensive introduction to the craft of acting. Students explore a range of performance techniques and styles, from classical theatre to contemporary performance.
The MA in Theatre Lab is a one-year course that offers advanced training for experienced actors. The course is focused on experimental theatre and encourages students to explore new approaches to performance.
Facilities
RADA's facilities are located in the heart of London's Bloomsbury district. The academy's main building houses a number of performance spaces, including the Vanbrugh Theatre, the Gielgud Theatre, and the Jerwood Vanbrugh Theatre. These theatres are used for student productions, as well as professional performances.
In addition to its theatres, RADA has a range of other facilities, including rehearsal rooms, a film and television studio, a sound studio, and a costume workshop. The academy also has a comprehensive library, which houses a vast collection of scripts, books, and other resources related to the performing arts.
Notable Alumni
RADA has produced a number of notable alumni, many of whom have gone on to have successful careers in the theatre, film, and television industries. These include actors such as Alan Rickman, Fiona Shaw, Anthony Hopkins, and Vanessa Redgrave, as well as directors like Stephen Daldry and Mike Leigh.