Lab Series
Intensive training that elevates artistic practice
Develop and extend your creative skills over an intensive two or three-week period. The NIDA Lab Series is designed for people with a commitment to rigorous artistic development. Led by expert teaching artists with a wealth of industry experience, you’ll develop your craft in a supportive environment with like-minded peers. Class sizes are small ensuring you receive dedicated attention and feedback throughout your creative journey.
Labs are held twice a year, in January and July at NIDA’s Sydney campus. Courses are available for adults (18+ years) and young people (15-18 years). For both International and national participants, the Lab Series creates a diverse and engaging cultural hub.
Labs starting January 2026
Applying
Entry into the NIDA Lab Series is by selection only. You may apply by completing an online application form on the relevant course page, detailing your relevant experience and/or training,
Participants must have a demonstrated proficiency in the English language. A basic fitness level is required for performance-based labs as some course components will be physical.
Quality teaching staff
NIDA Open teaching artists bring their creative practice and industry experience to our classrooms to deliver contemporary student learning. Selected for their exceptional teaching ability, knowledge and extensive industry experience, they provide students with individual feedback and guidance ensuring you get the most out of your training.
Many of our tutors are also NIDA graduates, bringing firsthand experience and insights from one of the world’s leading performing arts institutions directly to you.
Course recognition
A certificate of attendance will be awarded at the end of the course. For university or college students seeking credit you will need to apply to your current institution directly to recognise the NIDA Lab courses as credit.
International participants
You will need to apply for an appropriate visa for your visit to Australia, such as a Visitor or Working Holiday Maker Visa. As a short non-award course, NIDA Labs do not require a student visa.
For information on applying for a visa to visit Australia go to the website of the Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection.
What are you waiting for?
Lab students gain a skill set that can benefit future full-time training. The NIDA Lab Series are a first step towards exploring a career in the performing arts, or simply an opportunity to enhance your personal and professional creative life.
