OVERVIEW

 

At Taylor's University, we proudly partner with The Actors Studio to bring you Malaysia's first Performing Arts Conservatory Degree. Through the Bachelor of Performing Arts (Honours), students experience a vibrant fusion of artistic training, critical theory, and real-world practice.

 

With a curriculum shaped by leading industry professionals and academics, our students are in high demand for their versatility and depth of training. Spaces in this innovative programme are limited, ensuring an immersive, personalised learning journey for every performer. Guided by industry veterans, develop your talents across theatre, dance, music, and more (think marketing, fintech, or even psychology), while building critical thinking, cultural awareness, and social engagement skills that take you further in the performing arts industry.

School
Liberal Arts and Sciences 

Intake Month

February, April, and September

Study Options

Full-time only

Award Winning Lecturers
Established Industry Experience

Overseas Transfer Options

United Kingdom (UK) and Australia

Study Programme

3 years

Interested to know more? Start your journey with us now.

Unsure about your next step? 
 

Book a personalised counselling session from May 13 to 24, and June 9 to 21 (Monday – Saturday, 10AM – 5PM). Explore how the world-class learning environment, exclusive scholarships, and industry network at Taylor's, ranked among Asia’s Top 40 and the World’s Top 1%, help you rise to success.

WHY TAYLOR'S
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
VOICES FROM THE COMMUNITY
ABOUT THE ACTORS STUDIO
CHAT WITH OUR STUDENT
HOW TO APPLY
FEES AND SCHOLARSHIPS
WHY TAYLOR'S PROGRAMME OVERVIEW VOICES FROM THE COMMUNITY ABOUT THE ACTORS STUDIO CHAT WITH OUR STUDENT HOW TO APPLY FEES AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Key Highlights of Bachelor of Performing Arts (Honours)

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PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
AUDITION
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
OVERSEAS TRANSFER OPTIONS
FUTURE CAREERS
SPOTLIGHT
INTRO TO CONSERVATORY DEGREE
MEET OUR LECTURERS

Embark on a transformative journey with our performing arts programme, where you will learn from highly qualified academicians and esteemed industry leaders dedicated to nurturing the next generation of creative professionals. Our programme is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and practical insights necessary to excel in your chosen field.

 

This programme is compatible with the new Taylor's Curriculum Framework that allow you to mix & match study modules.

Primary Core

Primary Core

This component consists of core subjects, which are primary modules across a discipline that provides the fundamental knowledge of the discipline.

Year 1

  • Introduction to Performing Arts
  • History of Theatre
  • Introduction to Acting

 

Year 2

  • Acting 1
  • Fundamentals of Choir Performance
  • Fundamentals Mechanics of Filmmaking
  • Introduction to Creative Writing
  • Introduction to Dance and Creative Processes
  • Directing 1 & 2

Year 3

  • Production Practicum
  • Production and Stage Management
  • Research Methodology
  • Internship

Note: All information is subject to change. Readers are responsible for verifying information that pertains to them by contacting the university.
Specialisation

Specialisation

  • Performance Specialisation: 
  • This track is your gateway to a world of storytelling and expression, equipping you with the tools to bring characters to life. Dive into the art of devising performance texts, master the nuances of voice and speech, and let your body speak through movement. Through our acting modules, you'll also refine your skills to captivate any audience.

Subjects:

  • Devising Performance Text
  • Voice and Speech 1 & 2
  • Movement 1 & 2
  • Acting 2 & 3
  • Music Specialisation: 
  • Perfect your language and diction, and learn the art of movement and stagecraft to become a versatile musician. Develop your ear and musicianship skills, and dive deep into vocal studies. Your talent is your instrument, so you will explore a rich repertoire of songs and scenes while honing your craft.

Subjects:

  • Language and diction
  • Movement and stagecraft
  • Musicianship and ear training
  • Principle vocal studies
  • Repertory and song
  • Scene studies
  • Vocal styles and musical theatre
  • Dance Specialisation: 
  • Step into a world of movement and rhythm. Embrace the grace of Ballet, the expressive flair of Contemporary Dance, the vibrant energy of Hip Hop and Jazz Dance, and even the rich traditions of Silat and Malaysian Traditional Dance. Dance isn't just an art; it's a language of the soul, and this track guides you to become fluent.

Subjects:

  • Ballet Technique I & II
  • Contemporary Dance I & II
  • Hip Hop and Jazz Dance
  • Silat
  • Malaysian Traditional Dance
University Core

University Core

This component aims to develop critical thinking, build up social intelligence and cultivate civic responsibility as well as broaden cultural knowledge. These consist of compulsory and nationally-mandated study modules required by the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education.

 

  • Penghayatan Etika dan Peradaban / Bahasa Melayu Komunikasi 2
  • Falsafah dan Isu Semasa
  • Emotional Intelligence in Action
  • Kursus Integriti Dan Antirasuah
  • Social Innovation Project

Note:

  1. Students are requested to take Bahasa Kebangsaan A if they do not obtain a Credit for Bahasa Malaysia in SPM.
  2. All information is subject to change. Readers are responsible for verifying information that pertains to them by contacting the university.
Flexible Education

Flexible Education

You will need to select any one (1) of the Free Electives offered by Taylor's University. You can refer to the Flexible Education Guide for the complete list.

 

The free electives offered are subject to availability and you will need to meet the minimum module pre and co-requisite.

Prepare adequately for the audition with the guidance provided by our experts, tailored to meet the requirements of each specialisation.

Performance

Performance

Ice Breaking (45 minutes)
The audition begins with an ice breaking session that includes:

  • Introductions
  • Theatre Games

 

Monologue (2 - 6 minutes)
Auditionees to perform: 

  • 1 Classical monologue (1 minute to 3 minutes) 
  • 1 Contemporary monologue (1 minute to 3 minutes)

Monologues are to be memorised. 


Coaching & Improvisation (20 minutes)
The panel may put you through:

  • Repeat the monologues above but with specific instructions.
  • Movement activities/ improvisation.

The purpose of the solo performance is to show you as a performer and should be chosen to show your range as well as your ability to project.  

 

Please bring (If needed) recorded music as an accompaniment for your solo on a phone or tablet with an auxiliary output. The music should be downloaded to your device; streaming via WiFi may not be available in the studio.

Interview (15 minutes)

Based on the programme evaluation of the first four parts of the audition, you may be asked to stay for an interview. The purpose of the interview is to:

  • Gain insight into your interests outside of the rehearsal studio.
  • Identify your personal and professional goals.
  • Assess whether you are intellectually and emotionally ready to enter a rigorous conservatory environment.


Clothing Requirement

  • Loose and comfortable clothing.
  • No jeans, and restricting clothing.
  • Avoid heavy jewelry and makeup. 
Music

Music

Solo Performance

Do prepare to perform two contrasting songs that best represent your voice.

 

Contrasting songs:

  • The choice of songs can be from different genres of music, such as 1 opera aria and 1 musical theatre OR 1 musical theatre and 1 pop song.
  • The choice of songs that showcase different emotional content.

Please prepare your live accompaniment (bring your accompanist) OR bring a pre-recorded accompaniment (file in a USB). If you cannot find an accompanist or the pre-recorded accompaniment, please perform your two songs unaccompanied. You will need to prepare:

  • One hard copy of the music scores for the Audition Panel.
  • For Musical In theatre and Pop Songs, printed lyrics are allowed.

Voice Range Test

To assess the vocal abilities, the Audition Panel will assess the vocal range by inviting the auditionees to sing some vocal exercises

 

Interview

  • The interview session helps the Audition Panel understand your musical background and your expectations.
  • This is also to assess whether you are intellectually and emotionally ready to enter a rigorous conservatory environment.
Dance

Dance

Ballet Technique Class (45 minutes)
The audition begins with a ballet class that typically includes:

  • Barre: pliés, tendus, dégagés, rond de jambe, etc.
  • Center: adagio, petit allegro, grand allegro, etc

 

Modern Technique Class (20 minutes)
The modern class includes:

  • A short center warm-up using the rounding and arching of the torso.
  • Phrases that travel across the floor focusing on moving rigorously through space with attention to rhythm, changes of direction, and level changes.
  • This section of the audition is to be performed barefoot.

 

Coaching & Improvisation (20 minutes)
You will be taught and coached on a brief contemporary repertory sequence. The programme is interested in how quickly you pick up choreography, how you respond to and incorporate corrections, and how you function as a member of an ensemble in a rehearsal-like setting. This section concludes with a short improvisation.

 

Solo Performance (2 minutes)
The purpose of the solo is to show you as a performer and should be chosen to show your range as well as your ability to project. You should be prepared to say the:

  • Name of the solo (if it has a name)
  • Choreographer
  • Composer of your music (or name of artist)

Please bring recorded music as an accompaniment for your solo on a phone or tablet with an auxiliary output. The music should be downloaded to your device; streaming via WiFi may not be available in the studio.

Interview (15 minutes)

Based on the programme evaluation of the first four parts of the audition, you may be asked to stay for an interview. The purpose of the interview is to:

  • Gain insight into your interests outside of the rehearsal studio.
  • Identify your personal and professional goals.
  • Assess whether you are intellectually and emotionally ready to enter a rigorous conservatory environment.

Clothing Requirement

  • You must be in a unitard, or tights and tight-fitting top, or leotard that enables the programme to observe your technique.
  • No skirts, loose-fitting tee shirts, leg warmers, or costumes are permitted.
  • Be prepared with ballet slippers, dance socks, and the ability to dance in bare feet.
  • Pointe shoes may be worn but are not necessary for this audition.

 

Are you ready to take the next step in your academic journey? Our programme offers an exciting opportunity for individuals passionate about the field of Bachelor of Performing Arts programme. To ensure a smooth admission process, please take note of our entry requirements listed below.

Prerequisites

Prerequisites

SPM / O-Level with Pre-U / Foundation

Pass SPM / O-Level or equivalent with 5 credits for entry with Pre-University / Foundation qualification (Except for UEC).

SPM / O-Level with Diploma

Pass SPM / O-Level or equivalent with 3 credits for entry with Diploma qualification.

 

Note: 

  • 1. Candidates need to pass BM and History at SPM level.
  • 2. All information is subject to change. Readers are responsible for verifying information that pertains to them by contacting the university.
Entry Pathway

Entry Pathway

Specialisation Audition

Pass

 

Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)

Min. CC with CGPA 2.00

 

Unified Examination Certificate (UEC)

Pass with min. 5Bs

 

A Level

Min. DD

 

AUSMAT (SACEi)

Min. ATAR 50

 

Canadian Pre-University (CPU)

Min. average of 50% in 6 subjects

 

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Min. 24 points in 6 subjects

Monash University Foundation Year (MUFY)

50%

 

MOHE Matriculation

Pass with min. CGPA 2.00

 

Taylor’s Foundation and Diploma programmes

Pass any Taylor's Foundation / Diploma programme with CGPA 2.00

 

Other Equivalent Qualification

 

Pass Foundation/Diploma/ Higher Diploma/ Advanced Diploma from any other institution recognised by Malaysian Government with min.CGPA 2.00

 

Application via APEL A is allowed

 

Any other equivalent qualification recognised by the Malaysian Government

Note: 

  1.  All Malaysian students are required to attain a Pass in Bahasa Melayu and English in SPM / O-Level / UEC / IGCSE or equivalent.
  2. All information is subject to change. The above entry requirements serve as a guideline. Readers are responsible to verify the information by contacting the university’s Admissions Department.
  3. Students must pass auditions for the performance, dance, and music tracks.
English Requirements

English Requirements

LOCAL STUDENTS

IELTS, TOEFL, MUET, UEC English

Pass English

 

Taylor's EET

Overall Score 5.0

 

Taylor's IEN

Level 2 - Grade C

 

Pre-U/Diploma

Completed Pre-U/Diploma that was conducted in English

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

IELTS

5.0

 

TOEFL iBT

46

 

PTE

51

 

Linguaskill

160

 

Pre-U/Diploma

Completed Pre-U/Diploma that was conducted in English

We provide the option for you to complete your Bachelor of Pharmacy degree through our trusted partner university in Australia and United Kingdom (UK).

UNITED KINGDOM 🇬🇧 

University of Leeds

University of Leeds

  • BA Theatre and Performance | 1 + 2 years
Middlesex University London

Middlesex University London

  • BA Theatre (Acting) | 2 + 1 years
  • BA Theatre (Design) | 2 + 1 years
  • BA Theatre (Directing) | 2 + 1 years

AUSTRALIA 🇦🇺 

Deakin University

Deakin University

  • Bachelor of Creative Arts (Major in Drama, Minor in Producing Screen Content & Minor in Creative Writing) | 1 + 2 years
University of Melbourne

University of Melbourne

  • Bachelor of Arts | 1 + 2.5 years

When you've successfully completed this Bachelor of Performing Arts programme, you could embark on any of these exciting careers, including:

Stage, TV, and Film

  • Actor / Actress, Singer, Dancer
  • Director
  • Writer
  • Producer
  • Stage Manager
  • Production Manager
  • Performer
  • Scriptwriter
  • Presenter
  • Movement Coach
  • Corporate Training
  • Storyteller

Education

  • Drama teacher
  • Dance teacher
  • Voice teacher
  • Arts researcher
  • Speech Teacher
  • Teacher / Lecturer

 

Advocacy and Media

  • Arts and Culture Manager
  • Curator
  • Arts writer / Critic

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The programme contains modules that include Performance, Directing, History of Theatre, Devising Performance Text, Voice and Speech, Movement, Technical Theatre, Stage Costume, Hair and Makeup, Stage Lighting, Stage Sound, Stage Set Design, Stage Management, Scenography, Dance and Music.

  • Led by Joe Hasham OAM, Adjunct Professor & Programme Artistic Director and Dato' Dr. Faridah Merican, Adjunct Professor & Programme Development Director

  • Co-created, co-designed and co-delivered by The Actors Studio, Taylor's University and top industry professionals

  • Collaborative teaching & learning by leaders in education and performing arts

  • Flexible learning spaces at Taylor's University Lakeside and The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (klpac)

In this section, you get the chance to hear directly from the vibrant voices of our performing arts school's communities. As a gathering space for insights and stories, we are excited to showcase the experiences and knowledge of our lecturers, students, alumni, and industry partners.

 

In 1989, two people joined hands to pursue a dream. This dream of theirs became a phenomenal driving force that has and continues to redefine the arts in Malaysia. Armed with a mission to nurture the arts in Malaysia, Joe and Faridah have groomed countless artistes, created a string of theatre spaces and enriched lives by improving access to the arts.

 

With 30 years' experience as a multi award-winning show producer and presenter, venue designer, operator and respected arts educator, The Actors Studio has a solid track record in arts education, corporate training & arts outreach / therapy.

 

Seven venues on, hundreds of award-winning productions later, The Actors Studio's expertise remains unrivaled. It has presented almost 600 productions and over a million people have passed through the doors of its theatres.

logo of the Actors Studio
portrait of joe hasham and dato dr faridah merican

Experience Taylor's University Through the Eyes of Our Students

 

Are you curious about what life is really like at Taylor's? Do you have questions regarding our Performing Arts degree that only a current student can answer? Our Unibuddy programme is here to connect you with our friendly and knowledgeable student ambassadors. 

 

Why Talk to a Unibuddy?

  • Real Insights: Get honest, firsthand experiences about studying and living here.
  • Personalised Advice: Whether it’s about course workload, best study spots, or student clubs, get the lowdown on what interests you.
  • Diverse Perspectives: Our student ambassadors come from various backgrounds and study different courses. Find someone who shares your interests or challenges!

 

Ask anything you like about studying with us. Our student will get back to you within 24 hours.


Embarking on your journey towards an Performing Arts degree represents an exhilarating advancement in your educational and professional career. We are here to guide you through the application process, ensuring it is as seamless and straightforward as possible. To discover more about the procedure and the documents required, please visit our Admissions website for further information.

Looking for more information?


If you require additional information about the programme, our friendly team is always on hand to assist and answer any queries you may have. Additionally, you can also book a 1:1 appointment with our team for guidance in structuring your preferences and understanding the entry pathways.

Bachelor of Performing Arts (Honours)

I am Approximate Total Fees
Local Student
MYR 102,734
International Student
USD 28,578

We offer scholarships to help brightest minds

reach their fullest potential.

Note: Fees will be reviewed annually. For the avoidance of doubt, Taylor’s reserves the right to revise the fee payable for any given semester.

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