Saving the VCA

Labrug | 17/08/2009 - 20:55

There is currently a large outcry at plans to restructure the academic programmes at VCA (the Victorian College of the Arts) to align with European Models, or more mainstream Melbourne models. The belief is that this new approach works in opposition to the objectives and historical reputation the school currently has. In a statement from the new Dean;

"I am astonished how siloed this campus has been. It's siloed in its programs, it's siloed in its narrow little degree programs... Producing elite dancers that only become ballet dancers, or actors that only act, is no longer appropriate in Australia."

Sharman Pretty, Dean of VCAM (VCA), The Australian, June 5^th, 2009

This is stark contrast to world wide opinions and past graduates of VCA. The new model actually named the Melbourne Model, has a stronger theoretical focus than the current structure which in direct conflict with the Philosophy - "The teaching philosophy of the College reflects a long held belief that learning comes from doing. As the tuition is practical, intensive and studio-based, class sizes are small, places are limited and admission is competitive."

If you want to learn more... http://www.savevca.org/index.html

If you wish to sign the petition... http://www.petitiononline.com/savevca/petition.html

Labrug's blog | email this blog | 1413 reads

I've already made my voice

Author: Na
Date: 17/08/2009 - 22:16

I've already made my voice heard: they're getting rid of the musical theatre course, and the ONLY puppetry course in existence in Australia.

People have been invited to a big rally this week, and on August 21st; so if you give a damn, go to their website, get the info and head on down.

Basically, they're trying to turn the VCA into a non-existent college, and make all of the arts courses more 'academic'. Ie. no more practical end-of-term shows, no more lighting on an actual lighting desk, no more stand-up-and-act... etc.

You can also follow Savevca on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/savevca

This is really important folks. This is actually about the END OF VCA. Not 'as we know it', not 'oh a few changes here and there'. Actually, the END OF. No curtain calls, no encores, just shut the place down, turn off the lights, and let's all go home...

For all of you potential students, it's important you give your say too; let the new VCA head know how you feel about your future education (or lack of) at the college.

Puppets and patterns at
Puppets in Melbourne

Signed on from Perth

Author: Lisa Skryp
Date: 17/08/2009 - 22:20

I've signed the petition & hope everyone else will, as well. Chookas for the rally Smiling

Vote With Your Feet

Author: Tulipa (not verified)
Date: 20/08/2009 - 12:07

Let's hope that the artistic community can achieve our goals regarding the VCA. Together we managed to buy La Mama so one would hope that we can be equally powerful here.

However, it may be that our best efforts do fall on deaf ears and the proposed do occur.

That be the case, I implore all people considering applying for study at the VCA in 2010 to NOT apply. It's a big sacrifice I know. But sometimes a public boycott, and the financial fallout it brings for the business, is the only way to effect a change. Imagine if the VCA did not receive a single application for 1st year courses in 2010? Imagine how quickly the situation would have to be addressed by Melbourne Uni and the government?

Just a thought. If you agree with this idea then spread the word.

Incidently, just this week Cadburys have backed down from using Palm Oil in their chocolate due to public protest and zoos removing Cadbury products from their snack shops due to the destruction of rainforest and orangutan habitat that Palm Oil farming creates. Not supporting an irresponsible business can move mountains. Watch out Melbourne Uni.

Tulipa.

DON'T BOYCOTT

Author: Na
Date: 20/08/2009 - 16:41

It's an interesting thought Tulipa, but I doubt boycotting would do anything. From what I've read of the new head, I'm betting she'd just shrug her shoulders and go 'oh well, now we don't have to worry about finding the multi-million dollars to keep the arts courses afloat'. The thing about university administrators is that if they have no student interest in the course, they're not going to fund it. If anything, a boycott would do the OPPOSITE of saving the VCA. If, on the other hand, they were overwhelmed with applications, then they might consider funding it properly.

Boycotting would just allow the heads/administrators to say: "hey look, nobody wants to study these courses, so we can quietly get away with defunding/'depublicising'/'academising' them".
Puppets and patterns at
Puppets in Melbourne

Saving the VCA

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