£250,000 revamp for drama department at University of Greenwich

A £250,000 revamp has transformed the drama department at the University of Greenwich.

The university has invested the money in new facilities for drama students at the Old Baths in Woolwich town centre. Improvements include more rehearsal space, student computer labs and new audio visual equipment.

As well as acting skills, students learn valuable techniques to take into the working world, as Marcella Chin, a third-year BA Hons drama student, explains.

"This course has taught me a lot, such as the way we speak to different people in different situations and the effect that can have," says the 23-year-old. "I've developed not just as a student but as a person. The practical side is the most enjoyable part of the course but the theory, and the chance to learn about different areas of drama, is interesting as well."

The transformation of the Old Baths means students can hone their craft on stage as well as off. Academic sessions take place at the Drama department's main base, the Greenwich Campus, at the historic Old Royal Naval College.

Heather Lilley, Programme Leader for Drama, adds: "The Old Baths is in use all week until about 9pm and there are between 15 and 20 performances a year, culminating in the third year students' shows. As well as the theatre there is a new digital performance lab and five rehearsal rooms. There is also a workshop on site, where all the sets are built."

Ross Crosby, 21, from Charlton, is also a third year BA Hons drama student. As part of his final year he runs a university-funded student theatre company that will tour residential homes and sheltered housing. Location was one of the things that drew Ross to Greenwich. He says: "London is fantastic – just being so near to the West End and places like the National Theatre. You couldn't dream of being in a better place."

For further information about studying drama at the University of Greenwich, please call 020 8331 9000, emailcourseinfo@greenwich.ac.uk or go to www.gre.ac.uk