A new initiative from North Highland College will take drama courses to the west of the Sutherland this Spring.

Aimed at both senior secondary pupils and adults, the programme will deliver two HNC modules, in Production, involving the development and staging of a play, and in Technical Theatre, which focuses on backstage skills. 

Completion of the modules, through evening or weekend sessions over a period of 13 weeks, will give participants four full credits towards an HNC in Drama, and a taste of formal study in the subject.  Students may choose to go on to complete the qualification at North Highland College.

The courses are fully accredited and will be taught in conjunction with those currently on offer at the Thurso campus, and by the same tutors.  The outreach programme will be free of charge to participants.

Students will also, through their coursework, have the opportunity to develop a piece of theatre to be performed in conjunction with the drama students currently studying at the Thurso campus, who will be taking their own show on the road around Caithness and Sutherland in May.

Uniquely, the course is being taken directly to the students - in Kinlochbervie, Lochinver and Ullapool.  Other venues are also being considered where demand exists.   Public meetings in the confirmed venues are being organised over the next weeks to allow prospective participants to meet the tutors, to learn more about the courses, and to explore opportunities that theatre studies may offer.

The outreach programme, developed by the college in conjunction with Thurso-based Grey Coast Theatre, is intended to provide both an introduction to the world of professional theatre for those who may be considering a career in the business, and an enjoyable opportunity to 'tread the boards' or pick up some technical skills for those with a more general interest.

The new HNC and HND in Touring Theatre is currently in its second year at North Highland College. 

Further information on the course content or public meetings is available from Sarah Egan on 01847 890840.