National Theatre School of Canada

NTS is one of the few schools in the world that unites all the theatre arts under one roof. English- and French-speaking students study their respective theatrical traditions, learning in an atmosphere of respect for their cultures. NTS students acquire a strong base in traditional techniques, skills, and methods of learning that will serve them throughout their lives in and outside the theatre.

Theatre is anchored by traditions that are centuries old, but it is also constantly evolving. Training at the National Theatre School reflects this paradox. NTS students’ mastery of classical techniques and traditions is complemented by their exposure to contemporary and experimental work.

In its selection of teachers and students, the NTS seeks out artists who demonstrate exceptional creativity, autonomy, talent, dedication, discipline, curiosity, sensitivity, generosity, integrity and vision. While all students share these qualities, the School does not aim to put a recognisable stamp on its graduates. Rather, its goal is to give them the tools and environment that will let them realise their full potential as unique, individual artists.

Theatre is a collaborative art. At the National Theatre School, students experience the interdependence of writing, acting, directing, design and production on a daily basis.

NTS students not only benefit from individualized training (there is a maximum of 14 students per class), but also from daily contact with creators active in shaping theatre across the country and abroad. During the school year, the School’s approximately 160 students have direct, daily interactions with a constantly changing pool of close to 200 artists, including directors, producers, technicians, set, sound, lighting, and costume designers, playwrights, actors, choreographers, singers, stage managers, and voice coaches.

NTS teachers are working professionals, leaders in their disciplines who bring freshness and relevancy to their classes. This connection to the theatre community is part of the reason why NTS graduates enter their fields so successfully upon graduation.

Updated Sunday, August 17, 2008

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