Thinking about applying to CAST Studio?
You’re bound to have questions, and we’ve answered the ones we hear most often – from auditions and fees to finding somewhere to live in Bury St Edmunds.
If there’s anything we haven’t covered, please get in touch. We’re always happy to talk.
We offer the intensity of professional musical theatre training with the attention of a small actors’ studio. We accept no more than 25 students per year, so we can get to know you, challenge you and support your individual development. You’re not just a number here.
You’ll study for a three-year BA (Hons) Musical Theatre degree awarded by Buckinghamshire New University. You train at CAST Studio in Bury St Edmunds, with a course built around practical performance and professional preparation.
We cap each intake at 25 students. Small cohorts mean more individual attention, closer relationships with tutors and the chance to work as a genuine company of performers.
Acting, singing and dance are at the heart of the course, alongside the skills and professional awareness needed for a sustainable career. We explore musical theatre chronologically, looking closely at different eras, styles and the practitioners that shaped them.
CAST is a full-time commitment, Monday to Friday. We provide more than double the 14 weekly contact hours required under our university validation, including practical classes, individual singing lessons, rehearsals and visiting masterclasses.
Absolutely. Practical performance is central to CAST. You’ll work towards public performance projects every term, building your skills through the experience of rehearsing, collaborating and performing for an audience.
You’ll learn from our core faculty alongside working theatre professionals who join us as visiting tutors and masterclass guests. That connection to the industry is woven through your training, rather than saved for your final year.
That’s completely normal. We don’t expect you to arrive as the finished article. Acting is at the heart of our approach, and we look for potential, commitment and openness to learning. Our small classes help us focus on what you need to develop.
Apply through UCAS for BA (Hons) Musical Theatre at CAST Studio (course code RH01; institution code B94). We’ll then contact you to discuss audition arrangements, whether at CAST, another venue or through an arranged group audition.
The published UCAS entry range for September 2027 is 88–112 UCAS tariff points, plus GCSE English. An audition and interview are also required. We know applicants have different educational journeys, so even if you feel that you don’t meet the requirements, please speak to us.
You’ll meet a friendly team who want to see you at your best. We’ll ask you to sing two suitable songs, perform a monologue and take part in a dance call with choreography to learn. Choose material you connect with and can perform confidently: we’re looking for potential, not perfection.
No. CAST Studio does not charge an audition fee.
Our aim is to keep tuition in line with the standard tuition-fee loan available to eligible students, without the substantial additional tuition charges some specialist schools require. UCAS currently lists £10,050 per year for September 2027. Some modest additional costs may apply, so please ask us for the latest details.
Eligible students can apply for tuition-fee and maintenance support through the relevant student finance service. Your entitlement depends on your circumstances and residency. We recommend checking your eligibility early so you can plan with confidence.
We’ll introduce you to others joining your cohort before you start and help you explore accommodation in Bury St Edmunds. Students commonly arrange shared houses through local landlords or letting agents, and we can offer guidance as you make those arrangements.
Costs depend on the property and how you live. As an illustration, a four-bedroom house rented for £1,550–£2,100 per month would work out at roughly £390–£525 per person before bills when shared equally. Allow separately for utilities, food, travel and personal expenses, and check current listings before committing.
Bury is a lively historic market town with independent shops, cafés, pubs, restaurants and a thriving arts scene, including Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds and The Apex. It’s a place where you can concentrate on training while still having a life outside the studio.
Not at all. Training outside London gives you space to develop away from constant industry pressure, while keeping the capital within reach for theatre visits, meetings and auditions. You’ll also meet working professionals throughout your course.
You won’t be expected to manage everything alone. Our small cohorts mean we can spot when someone needs extra help, and you’ll have access to a personal support tutor and our student-support procedures. Whether the issue is academic, personal or financial, please talk to us early.
In your final summer term, you’ll take part in a London graduate showcase, with agents invited to attend. We also support your preparation for professional life, including headshots, Spotlight and developing industry relationships. Our focus is not just your first job, but a career you can sustain.