Specialize in Acting or Digital Media & Sound Design
Acting
Experience high-energy, intensive, and immersive classes designed for drama students. Engage in hands-on, in-depth workshops that cover foundational acting, voice, and movement, along with specialized classes such as improv, Intro to Shakespeare, monologue work, stage fighting, and acting for the camera. Learn from Canada’s leading theatre professionals in small class sizes that ensure tailored instruction and personalized feedback. Students will examine texts from a traditional stage acting perspective, progressing to acting for the camera, and incorporating emerging technology into their performances. The program culminates in a final performance, where students will collaborate with Digital Media & Sound Design students.
Digital Media & Sound Design
Immerse yourself in dynamic, hands-on workshops that explore sound design in performance. Students will engage in in-depth sessions focused on the fundamental tools and techniques used in music for theatre, dance, and live performance. Learn methods for recording, assembling, mixing, and performing dramatic audio scenes, and have the opportunity to use your own instruments or voice in compositions or record sounds from your environment.
Classes are taught by Canada’s leading instructors from the Faculty of Music at the University of Toronto, ensuring a rich learning experience. With small group sizes designed to maximize engagement, students will work on projects, including a city soundscapes sound design project, and collaborate with acting students to provide sound design for the final 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.
Co-Curricular Activities
In the evenings, you will embark on exciting excursions that delve into Toronto’s vibrant arts and culture scene—from catching an award-winning play or musical to attending talks with professional directors and actors. Your weekends will be filled with outings to established arts and music festivals, tours of studios, and more, enriching your understanding of Canadian theatre and culture.
Explore Toronto through a variety of activities, including visits to major theatre productions and other engaging cultural experiences that will enhance your summer experience.
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 high school students and those entering college or university.
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 | Various Evening Activities |
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!
