Dance, Aerial and Physical Theatre

Our BA (Hons) Dance, Aerial and Physical Theatre degree is the first aerial dance undergraduate degree in the UK and offers intensive practical training experience combining dance and aerial technique classes to help prepare performers for careers within the creative industry.

Reach new heights with aerial training
This course introduces you to aerial and physical theatre training and is available to you whether you are new to aerial work or a practiced performer as our technique classes can cater to mixed ability. You do not need previous aerial experience to apply.

Through three aerial technique classes per week, you will develop your performance skills with a range of apparatus, with the option to narrow your focus in third year if you wish to specialise in one.

Learn to use apparatus, including:
- Fabric

- Hoop

- Dance trapeze

- Rope

- Harness.

Develop your technical skills with intensive training
With a practical to theory ratio of 70:30, this highly practical course builds your technical foundations through intensive daily classes under the guidance of our expert and active dance practitioners.

Areas of focus include:
- Cunningham

- Limon

- Release

- Ballet

- Contact improvisation

- Somatic practices

- Dance styles from styles influenced from other cultural perspectives.

Find your choreographic voice
Throughout your course, we will encourage you to develop confidence and skills in creating and performing your own work.

You will have the opportunity to explore approaches to constructing theatrical work through set, props and lighting, as you draw on broader theatre-making strategies to develop your choreographic voice.

Perform throughout your degree
Many of your modules will include a practical performance assessment and you will be able to perform in our dedicated performance venues, The ShowRoom and the Dance Theatre Space, as well as in our range of industry-standard studios and spaces.

Learn from sector-active dance practitioners
Our lecturers and dance tutors are all experienced, professional and practicing choreographers, technique tutors, dance artists and dance science specialists.

Our tutors approach each class as an opportunity to share their expertise with you to nurture your talent and extend your creativity, as they get to know you and your aspirations.

Collaborative and supportive community
Studying and training at the University of Chichester means that you will join our close, collaborative community of dancers, choreographers, writers and researchers.

International exchange opportunities
As part of your dance course, you can take part in an international exchange programme during your second year, as you experience new cultures whilst you continue your dance training.

On this course you will:
- Study three aerial technique classes per week with equipment including vertical and horizontal apparatus and harness-based dance.

- Develop your knowledge of physical theatre and narrative choreography.

- Take daily dance-technique classes with dance students on other courses.

- Perform regularly, including at end of semester shows.

- Learn from experienced and sector-active dance practitioners and researchers.