22 February, 2016

PIPA at forefront to meet demand for Pacific talent

New Performing Arts degree opens doors for Pacific community

BEST Pacific Institute of Performing Arts (PIPA) in Auckland is strongly positioned to meet the increased demand for Pacific talent in the arts and entertainment industries with the introduction of the Bachelor of Performing Arts (Pacific) in 2016. The new degree is specifically designed to deliver a full three-year performing arts programme with both Western and Pacific content.

Head of School (Academic), Bronwyn Bradley says the Bachelor of Performing Arts (Pacific) will open more doors for young Pacific people who aspire to a career in the performing arts. It allows students another year of study to hone their skills and knowledge, as well as further opportunities for post-graduate study. More importantly, it allows Pacific people to tell their own stories. “We believe that the purpose of the arts, in this case performance, is to reflect the stories and issues that are present in society. Pasifika art and artists are in demand,” Ms Bradley explains.

The Bachelor of Performing Arts (Pacific) is a unique qualification not offered by other universities and tertiary institutions. “It will be delivered in an environment that encompasses Pacific values,” adds Ms Bradley. “While the course is varied and challenging, we have worked hard to design it so that the students are always learning by doing as we know from experience that this is how our students learn best.

PIPA provides an environment that nurtures young Pacific people and encourages them to excel. “Our students see PIPA as their family and feel safe to test themselves in an environment where they know they are supported,” says Ms Bradley.

PIPA’s strong ties with the performing arts industries reinforce that family-oriented approach, supported by experienced full-time and guest tutors who are all recognised actors, dancers, directors and choreographers. From award-winning actor, Anapela Polataivao (Kila Kokonut Krew), to New Zealand heart-throb Robbie Magasiva (Wentworth, Shortland St, Sione’s Wedding) and leading dancer, Justin Haiu (NZ Dance Company), students learn from the best from Day 1.

PIPA’s long list of successful alumni is a testament to those industry connections. They have toured nationally and internationally, receiving critical acclaim and contributing to New Zealand’s growing community of Pacific artists. The world hungers for more.

“We believe that to develop as a person and as a performing artist you have to know where you have come from and where you sit in the world,” says Ms Bradley. “Our students are perfectly placed to take their work to the world with the highest level of skill and a strong grounding in their culture and heritage.”

The Bachelor of Performing Arts (Pacific) also builds a strong foundation for students so that they are able to manage themselves and their careers after graduating, and they learn transferable skills that provide excellent pathways to other careers along the way.
PIPA is currently taking enrolments for its first Semester intake in March 2016.

Want to know more about the Bachelor of Performing Arts (Pacific)?

Go to the PIPA website at http://www.bestpacific.ac.nz/pacific-institute-of-performing-arts/bachelor-of-performing-arts-pacific/ and apply now. Or call 0800 425 624.

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