New Zealand Certificate in Performing Arts (Level 4)
Prepare for further study and performance in musical theatre.
Applications for 2027 are now open. Apply now to audition in September.
Develop your abilities as a musical theatre performer through practical training in singing, dancing and acting. You’ll strengthen your skills in each discipline, then learn how to bring them together through movement, voice and storytelling.
Rehearsals, ensemble work and staged performances will help you grow in confidence, connect with an audience and contribute effectively to a group. You’ll also experience performing arts traditions from Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond, while preparing for auditions and further study.
Key features
- Dedicated performance environment:
Train in specialist dance studios and performance spaces within a close-knit NASDA community.
- Live performance experience:
Build stage experience through public productions and opportunities with local industry partners.
- Industry-experienced tutors:
Learn from practising professionals with extensive musical theatre and performance experience.
- Flexible degree pathways:
Progress into degree-level musical theatre or music study based on your strengths and interests.
What you'll learn
- Vocal technique, warm-ups and voice care
- Basic music notation, ear training and harmony singing
- Classical ballet, tap and jazz foundations
- Dance alignment, musicality, choreography and partnering
- Physical and vocal acting techniques
- Rehearsal, memorisation and performance skills
- Movement and voice for storytelling
- Ensemble performance and collaboration
- Musical theatre performance integrating singing, dancing and acting
- Audition techniques and career preparation
Fees for 2026
10 NCEA Level 1 literacy credits
In addition you need to:
Attend an audition to assess:
- vocal skills and ability,
- acting skills,
- dance / movement skills,
- ability and potential to study performing arts.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
- If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
- Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, please book a PTE Academic test through the Ara Examination Centre or complete an NZQA-approved English language test in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
A selection process will take place for this programme. This will be based on application information and audition demonstrating the ability to sing, dance and/or act competently and perform in front of others
Funding your studies
If you experience financial hardship during your studies, you may be eligible for funding, scholarships, and awards to help you continue your education.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
- Entry-level musical theatre performer
- Entry-level performing arts performer
Study pathways
Study options after this qualification
- Bachelor of Music Theatre
New Zealand Certificate in Performing Arts (Level 4)
Prepare for further study and performance in musical theatre.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Certificate |
| Code | NZ3420 |
| Next starts | February 2027 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| Credits | 120 |
| Level | 4 |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ3420-STRU |
Fees for 2026
Additional Entry Requirements
In addition you need to:
Attend an audition to assess:
- vocal skills and ability,
- acting skills,
- dance / movement skills,
- ability and potential to study performing arts.
Credit Recognition
Translate your knowledge from previous study into credits towards a new qualification.
Apply for credit recognitionDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 1002 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 794 KB
Area of Interest
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