Who we are
Performance experts
The National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) is Australia’s leading centre for education and training in the performing arts. NIDA Open gives people of all ages and experience the chance to benefit from NIDA’s world-renowned training methods and to explore their own creativity.
For nearly 60 years, we have been recognised for our practical and creative approach to dramatic arts education and training. Our higher education courses are considered some of the most prestigious in the world and our graduates achieve success on the stage, on screen and behind-the-scenes.
Since 1990 we have been opening NIDA’s doors to the public through NIDA Open short courses, holiday classes and intensive Studio courses around Australia. Our team of program managers, teaching artists and staff are all professionals with experience across theatre, film, entertainment and education.
Specialists in our field
NIDA Open courses provide each student with practical, dynamic skills development in a supportive, inspirational and fun learning environment.
Designed by our experienced program managers, all of our courses, workshops and training programs focus on practical skills and collaboration, providing an engaging and transformative learning experience for students of all ages.
Our teaching artists include voice and movement specialists, screen and theatre directors and writers, actors and television presenters, all of whom are working professionally in the arts and entertainment industry.
Our teaching artists are experts in education and are able to provide supportive feedback, direction and guidance as you progress through your course. We also provide courses for teachers to support them in delivering dramatic arts training and education experiences in schools.
Our world-class facilities and the knowledge of our inspiring teaching artists sets us apart. NIDA Open proudly delivers creative and inspiring experiences to over 14,000 students each year.
Many of our students are children and we take our role as mentors and carers seriously. We provide a safe learning environment for children and young people, and you can learn more about our policies.
Accessible to all
NIDA Open courses offer a range of learning options, including classes on weekends, weekdays, evenings, during school holidays or for short intensive periods. There are hundreds of courses running throughout the year so there will always be a NIDA Open course to suit you.
There are courses available for students of all ages and abilities, and most classes don’t require any previous experience.
A supportive community
Whether you’re looking to give your child their first creative experience or you are persuing intensive professional development, we offer a supportive environment where you will be challenged and inspired.
A NIDA Open course provides a great opportunity to explore your individual creativity while working in collaboration with others. Meet people who share your interests and get the chance to perform in front of family and friends at the completion of some of our courses.
We’re everywhere!
NIDA Open courses are available in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane and at other locations through the year.
Our award-winning main campus is based in Kensington Sydney, and has been designed specifically for the needs of performing arts training. In addition, we offer courses in selected Sydney suburbs, including Chatswood, Belrose, Kellyville, Parramatta, and Summer Hill.
NIDA has also taken its place among some of the finest creative establishments in Victoria and Australia with a permanent venue, NIDA Melbourne, in the Southbank Arts Precinct.
We offer courses at our partner venues including:
- Melbourne: NIDA Melbourne and Primrose Potter Australian Ballet Centre
- Brisbane: TAFE Brisbane
- Adelaide: Restless Dance Theatre
Get to know us better
You can contact us about courses, check out upcoming news and events or join NIDA’s mailing list to stay up to date. Or follow NIDA and join our community of actors, directors, designers, film buffs, theatre-lovers and supporters.