QIPSss

BACKGROUND INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS

The British and International Federation of Festivals is pleased that its first QIPS (Quality in Performance and Speech) Summer Studio is to take place in 2009.  It is exciting to know that the students on this course will be the first to perform in the newly built Performance Arts Centre at the Crewe site of MMU.

On the final day of the course all students will have the opportunity to perform at least one solo item in a Concert and take part in Choral Verse Speaking.  There will be a Parents and Visitors Buffet Tea on this final day.

Accommodation is in single rooms which are grouped in “landings” of seven. All rooms have their own washbasin and there is a bathroom on each landing.  There is a member of housestaff to each landing and all have recent enhanced disclosures through the Criminal Records Bureau for your safety and confidence.  Housestaff, including a resident course Doctor, are mature experienced persons.  All students’ parents will receive a copy of our Child Protection Policy. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q  How will I benefit from attending QIPSss?

QIPSss is specifically designed to raise the standards of performance in preparation for entering a festival or an audition.  For part of the course you will receive individual tuition in groups no greater than 10 in number, in Poetry, Prose and Dramatic Recital.  In larger groups of up to 30 students there will be an emphasis placed on Choral Verse Speaking.  Other subjects you will study include Interview Technique, Sight Reading for Performance and Creative Drama.  

Q  What preparation has to be done before coming to QIPSss?

You are required to spend time before the course learning and preparing a number of selections.  Tutors can then work with you to develop your individual performance. These should not be current or recent examination selections. 

Q  Why do you ask about Duologues?

If you are attending QIPSss with a friend you may wish to work on a Duologue together, instead of two individual Dramatic selections.

Q  What is the “Party Piece” for?

Each evening there will be student-led revues, which are fun concerts directed by the students themselves.  If you do not wish to take part in such a concert there will be no coercion to do so, you can simply sit and watch.  For those wishing to participate, it is necessary for you to have a selection ready prepared for performance in such a concert.

Q When will I know if my application has been accepted?

QIPSss is open to students of all abilities in the age range 11 to 17 years.  Course booking opens in October 2008 and places will be allocated on a “first come, first served” basis.  You will be notified of whether you have been successful in securing a place within 2 weeks of the office receiving your application and students are advised to book early to avoid disappointment.  If we are unable to offer you a place (due to large numbers of applicants) then your name will be placed on a waiting list and we will let you know the possibility of a place becoming available.  Those who cannot be offered a place in 2009 will be first in line when brochures are sent out for 2010.