The foundation course is aimed primarily at school leavers who are interested in preparing themselves for three-year actor training at conservatoire level, either at The Lir or a similar academy.

With an additional focus on broadening students’ reading and understanding of plays and theatre history, it also prepares students for broader drama degrees and related areas of study and work. The course is taught by a committed team of teachers, including many of The Lir’s core acting tutors and teachers from our Master of Fine Art programmes.The personal development of the foundation course students is enhanced by regular individual tutorials with The Foundation Course Director, a dedicated member of staff who supervises all aspects of the programme.

The course also encourages students to develop their own individual creativity with a focus on collaboration, improvisation and lateral thinking.

This course is an NFQ Level 7 Diploma (60 credits)

The Foundation Diploma in Acting and Theatre at The Lir Academy is not part of the CAO point’s race. Students are expected to have achieved the minimum matriculation requirements for Trinity College Dublin courses, however, exceptions may be made based on the demonstration of exceptional natural talent at auditions.