Acting
Take your craft to the next level in this intensive program designed for experienced actors. Engage in advanced workshops covering acting, voice, and movement, with masterclasses in improv, Shakespeare, monologues, stage combat, and acting for the camera. Learn from Canada’s top theatre professionals in small, focused classes that provide personalized feedback. Explore both traditional stage techniques and modern cinematic approaches, incorporating emerging technologies into your performances. Students will also have the opportunity to examine the integration of diverse cultural influences in performance, fostering a dynamic and versatile approach to the art of acting. The program culminates in a final performance, collaborating with Digital Media & Sound Design students in a professional, interdisciplinary setting.
Digital Media & Sound Design
Dive into dynamic, hands-on sessions that explore advanced sound design techniques for live performance. Students will engage in comprehensive lessons focused on the core principles and tools used in creating audio for theatre, dance, and multimedia performance. Learn how to capture, edit, and manipulate sound, and explore techniques for mixing, spatial audio design, and crafting dramatic audio scenes. You’ll have the opportunity to incorporate your own instruments, voice, or environmental sounds into your compositions.
Led by Canada’s top instructors from the Faculty of Music at the University of Toronto, these small group classes ensure an in-depth, personalized learning experience. Students will collaborate on projects such as designing a city soundscape, applying field recording techniques, and using industry-standard software to build complex sound environments. Additionally, you’ll work closely with acting students to design and integrate sound into a final live performance project.
BMO Lab – Emerging Technologies and AI
The BMO Lab serves as a transdisciplinary hub, fostering collaborative creative research that bridges the Arts and Sciences. While grounded in the Arts, it emphasizes a unique focus on emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
In the BMO Lab, students will participate in collaborative workshops that bring together participants from both acting and digital media programs. The lab introduces interdisciplinary engagement through AI-related initiatives, allowing students to engage in interactive workshops led by renowned artists and innovative researchers. With small class sizes, the BMO Lab ensures an individualized experience, enhancing workshop participation and contributing to the overall success of the final performance.
Explore Toronto’s Arts & Culture!
During evenings and weekends, you’ll have the chance to explore Toronto’s vibrant arts and culture scene. From attending award-winning theatre productions at iconic venues to enjoying arts and music festivals, there is always something exciting happening. You can also visit galleries or explore street art and local artist studios. Whether it’s catching a live music performance or participating in a cultural event, Toronto offers endless opportunities to immerse yourself in its dynamic creative landscape.
Join a Global Community of Artists
No matter where you’re coming from—be it a different city, country, or even continent—the University College Performing Arts Summer Program offers a vibrant environment for growth and exploration tailored for college or university students and acting professionals.
One of the unique attractions of this program is its international aspect; we warmly encourage high intermediate, advanced, and native speakers of English to apply.
Our mission is to cultivate confident, multi-faceted performers while fostering lasting friendships with fellow students from around the globe. Immerse yourself in the multicultural and enriching environment of Toronto, and embark on a summer experience that celebrates creativity and connection.
Sample Schedule
A typical day at UC Summer Performing Arts Program:
| 7:30am – 9:00am | Breakfast |
| 9:00am – 12:00am | Acting or Digital Media & Sound Design Classes |
| 12:00pm – 2:00pm | Lunch and Free Time |
| 2:00pm – 4:00pm | AI Workshops |
| 4:30pm – 5:30pm | Talk with a Director |
| 5:30pm – 6:30pm | Dinner |
| 6:30pm – 9:30pm | Explore Toronto’s Arts & Culture |
Experience Our Newly Renovated Facilities
University College is excited to unveil its recently renovated and revitalized facilities, designed to enhance your learning experience. Enjoy cutting-edge classroom facilities equipped with smart technology and a brand new state-of-the-art conference centre. The revamped West Hall offers an inspiring environment, while a modern student café provides a perfect space for socializing and relaxation. With barrier-free accessibility, everyone can enjoy our spaces. Join us and take advantage of these incredible improvements that support a vibrant educational atmosphere!
