The Bachelor of Design (Stage & Screen) is an intensive practical course covering the essential skills to design set and costume for traditional performance on both the stage and screen, alongside developing critical and ideation skills for work that expands notions of performance in the 21st Century. The course takes up to 12 students a year to ensure high levels of individualised learning and opportunities.
Toi Whakaari is excited to announce the launch of its new Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA) with endorsements in Design, Production and Acting.
This unique and revitalised programme provides the same essential training that has always been offered by Toi Whakaari across a range of performance related disciplines.
This core learning is now supported by a new groundbreaking learning model designed to provide students with a range of skills and ways of working that are contemporary, relevant and aligned to the rapidly evolving landscape of creative and performing arts in Aotearoa and beyond.
The BPA programme draws on the commitment of Toi Whakaari to consistently employ processes and structures which can be recognised as uniquely of Aotearoa New Zealand, upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Toi Whakaari is excited to announce the launch of its new Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA) with endorsements in Design, Production and Acting.
This unique and revitalised programme provides the same essential training that has always been offered by Toi Whakaari across a range of performance related disciplines.
This core learning is now supported by a new groundbreaking learning model designed to provide students with a range of skills and ways of working that are contemporary, relevant and aligned to the rapidly evolving landscape of creative and performing arts in Aotearoa and beyond.
The BPA programme draws on the commitment of Toi Whakaari to consistently employ processes and structures which can be recognised as uniquely of Aotearoa New Zealand, upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Toi Whakaari is excited to announce the launch of its new Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA) with endorsements in Design, Production and Acting.
This unique and revitalised programme provides the same essential training that has always been offered by Toi Whakaari across a range of performance related disciplines.
This core learning is now supported by a new groundbreaking learning model designed to provide students with a range of skills and ways of working that are contemporary, relevant and aligned to the rapidly evolving landscape of creative and performing arts in Aotearoa and beyond.
The BPA programme draws on the commitment of Toi Whakaari to consistently employ processes and structures which can be recognised as uniquely of Aotearoa New Zealand, upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
My time at Toi most importantly allowed me to train as an effective collaborator and gave me the ability to be self aware and reflective of my design process and practical experiences so I can continue to grow and hone my practice as a graduate. I was able to play as an artist, take advantage of the many resources offered to design students, and create from a design point of view holistically rather than perform a specific role. The learning and relationships I gained during the design degree are invaluable to my practice as a designer and artist today.
You will learn Performance Design through a range of practical workshops, intellectual enquiry, studio-based and collaborative projects.
Year 1:
Practical design skills – performance technology labs, manual and digital drawing towards the realisation conceptual ideas
Conceptual projects in Costume Design and Production Design
Critical design studies – analysis of screen and live arts
Year 2:
Assistant designer on in-house productions
Specialised experimental Design-led projects
Intern to professional companies and designers of your choice
Conceptual projects in Design for film and live event
Year 3
Lead designer on theatre and a film production
Self-directed research project
Internship and graduation exhibition
***Applications for entry in 2026 will open on 9 June 2025*** Entry to the Bachelor of Design (Stage and Screen) is by application, portfolio and interview. We welcome ambitious individuals who can identify and seize opportunities to make a positive impact in the arts sector to apply.
Mihimihi Introduction Info:
Your Mihimihi Introduction is an opportunity for us to get to know you. It could include things like:
You should aim for around 300 words, be succinct! You can type your response into the application form or send us the link to an audio or video file (please note: ALL international applicants MUST submit their Mihimihi Introduction as a video).
Portfolio Info:
For the application process, we accept digital portfolios only: Website address, PDF, PowerPoint, or Google Slides formats are preferable.
Your portfolio should serve as a reflection of your artistic skills. You can include work produced from school projects, professional engagements, community involvements or personal artistic pursuits. A compelling portfolio will showcase both your creative process and the final outcomes, allowing us to observe your ability to conceptualise, develop, and refine ideas through drawings, images, videos/films, or creative projects. While it is not necessary to exclusively present design work for live or screen productions, we encourage you to emphasise your creativity and passion for the arts through a diverse range of works or projects.
Here are some suggested examples to include in your portfolio:
Remember, quality and depth of work are more important than quantity. Aim to showcase at least five pieces of work or projects that highlight your artistic capabilities effectively.
For 15 years, our Design course has produced designers of the highest standard who work in New Zealand and internationally. Toi Whakaari graduates are leaders in performance-based arts practice and have successfully forged careers in dance, events, film, and stage productions.
