Courses

Professional pathways in musical theatre for South Australian performers, presented in partnership with Empowerdance RTO 40397.

Read the prospectus Register your interest

From first class to professional stage

Our courses are the top of a pathway that starts in our weekly classes.

1StartFoundations5–10 years. A fun first taste of musical theatre.
2GrowWeekly classesAcademy (8–18), acting, SMASH dance and singing lessons for ages 7 to 18.
3ShineCamps and showsJanuary camps and full-scale musicals on real stages.
4TrainCertificate IVNationally recognised musical theatre training for Years 10–13, with students up to age 20.
5SpecialiseDiplomaPost-school, pre-professional training. New for 2027.
6PerformProfessional stagesPelican Professional, our agency, and alumni on stages from the Royal Adelaide Show to the West End.

A senior Pelican company performing The Book of Mormon in white shirts and ties

Two pathways

Led by Course Directors Jen Frith and Kylie Green, Pelican Courses offer nationally recognised training at The Nest Studios, with a faculty of working industry professionals.

CUA40520

Certificate IV in Musical Theatre

A nationally recognised qualification for pre-professional performers who are serious about building a career in the performing arts. Intensive training in singing, dancing and acting sits alongside the practical tools, industry insight and performance readiness needed for professional success.

Who it’s for: Students in Years 10–13 (including those up to age 20), earning SACE and ATAR credits
Length: One year, during school terms
Training day: Mondays, 9am–4pm
Where: The Nest Studios, Lower Mitcham

CUA50220 · New for 2027

Diploma of Musical Theatre

Designed for post-school, pre-professional performers committed to developing the advanced skills, discipline and experience needed for a career in the industry. Students refine their craft, strengthen their versatility and develop a confident, authentic artistic identity, working with greater independence and professionalism.

Who it’s for: Post-school, pre-professional performers
Length: One year, during school terms
Training days: Tuesday to Friday, 8.30am–4pm
Where: The Nest Studios, Lower Mitcham

A professional pathway

Our courses are a professional pathway into a career in musical theatre. Training reflects the standards of the industry, so students build the technique, repertoire and professional habits to take their next step with confidence.

Advanced vocal technique and musical theatre repertoire
Jazz, tap and musical theatre dance technique
Acting through song, scene study and performing on camera
Audition technique and a professional performance portfolio
Industry knowledge, from freelancing to building a sustainable career
Performance experience, plus masterclasses with industry guests
Fitness, wellbeing and resilience for a career on stage

Pelican course students at The Nest Studios

Audition dates

Auditions are by video. We are looking for potential, so present your best even if one of the genres isn’t your strength.

Certificate IV

15 Jun2026Video auditions opened
30 Sep2026Final submissions (closing date)Submissions are still being accepted, so get in touch to apply.

Diploma

25 Sep2026Video auditions open
6 Dec2026Final submissions close
7 Dec2026Callback auditions
8 Dec2026Successful applicants notified

Your video includes a short introduction, the provided jazz routine, two music theatre songs and one monologue. Full instructions are in the prospectus.

Ask about auditions Submit Cert IV audition Submit Diploma audition