WAAPA’s Production and Design program provides students with a diverse selection of ‘on-the-job’ theatrical experiences. Incorporating an exciting mix of national and international professional directors, teachers and supervisors, WAAPA’s year-long season of theatre, music theatre, opera and dance performances, plus jazz, classical and contemporary music concerts, gives WAAPA graduates the winning edge in preparation for a seamless transition into a wide range of careers within the creative and technical industries, both nationally and abroad.
WAAPA’s professionally staffed and equipped workshop and wardrobe facilities, along with lighting and sound studios, gives students immediate ‘hands-on’ access to all production development, construction and staging processes associated with the most up-to-date industry expectations and practice.
WAAPA’s Production and Design program offers the following qualifications:
This entry level year focuses on a range of essential production skills reflected in two distinct streams:
Production Arts
This course is structured to appeal to the creative designer/maker, developing skills across the areas of Scenic Art, Costume Construction, Prop Making and Scenic Construction. Students work as directed on productions mounted by WAAPA and begin by assisting, until sufficiently skilled, to perform designated tasks. If the student decides to graduate WAAPA with this award, they will be equipped to enter a production workshop environment working in an assisting capacity.
Technical and Live Performance
This course is structured to include Lighting, Sound, Stage Management, and Technical Drawing, similarly to Production Arts, the expected destination of the graduate with this award is as an assistant.
This nationally recognised, one-year, full-time qualification is scaffolded to provide the next step for a learner who wishes to advance their knowledge and specialise in one area of production.
The CUA60220 - Advanced Diploma of Live Production and Management Services, offers 5 distinct streams:
These courses are structured to provide skills and experience consistent with the growing needs of the entertainment industry. Students work as directed on productions mounted by WAAPA and will be expected to provide service at a professional level of competence.
CUA50420 – Diploma of Live Production and Technical Services
CUA60220 – Advanced Diploma of Live Production and Management Services
CUA60520 – Advanced Diploma of Music
Bachelor of Performing Arts:
*Please note that these two new majors will come online in 2026.
For domestic student enquiries, please go to Future Students.
For international student enquiries, please go to International Students.
For a full list of WAAPA courses, please visit WAAPA Study areas.
For domestic student enquiries, please go to Future Students.
For international student enquiries, please go to International Students.
For a full list of WAAPA courses, please visit WAAPA Study areas.