Acting and Drama

At Manchester School of Theatre, we’ve built an international reputation for turning students into exceptional actors, theatre makers and performers.

Manchester is our dynamic home city and a hub of creative activity, with nationally and internationally renowned media institutions and theatres – such as the BBC, HOME, Royal Exchange Theatre, Contact Theatre and The Lowry – within easy reach of campus.

Supported by research and industry-active staff, with a range of expert guest lecturers, students on our BA (Hons) Drama and Contemporary Performance and BA (Hons) Acting courses are encouraged to develop their understanding of drama and performance, enhance their craft, and explore their own strengths as performers and creatives.

Why Manchester Met

Industry Connections

As well as being a source of inspiration, our city also provides us with an active network of partners who we work with to develop courses informed by industry. Our partnerships with the Hallé Orchestra, The Royal Northern College of Music, HOME and Factory International allow our students to be involved with Manchester’s thriving media, theatre, and performance scene. 

Industry standard facilities

Based in the Manchester School of Theatre on Oxford Road, our inspirational training venue includes a 180 seat fully equipped studio theatre, dressing rooms, a green room, large movement and performance studios with sprung floors, eight additional rehearsal studios, TV and radio studios and tutorial rooms.

Professional network

With us, you’ll explore our extensive network featuring renowned media institutions and theatres celebrated across national and international platforms. Our campus provides easy access to these venues, encouraging infinite opportunities for you to get involved within our vibrant community.

Award winning excellence

We excel at preparing our students for the next step in their careers. Our recent students have won many prestigious awards including the Alan Bates Award, The Carleton Hobbs Bursary Award, and the Laurence Olivier Bursary. 

Career prospects

We’ll unlock your potential in performing arts whilst refining critical transferable skills such as teamwork, creative thinking, leadership, and communication. Our performance courses are designed to elevate your personal and professional growth, setting the stage for success in your chosen industry or future studies.

Successful alumni

Guided by a team of extensively experienced directors, teachers, and practitioners, our impressive alumni include John Bradley, Steve Coogan, and Julie Walters CBE who have shaped successful careers in film, television, and theatre.