CUAPRF503A
Prepare for and perform in a competitive environment

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to prepare for and perform in competitive environments, such as auditions and competitions that showcase performers’ skills and improve their employment prospects.

Application

In a highly competitive market place it is essential that performers know how to prepare for and perform in competitive performance environments. The skills and knowledge outlined in this unit apply to performers, such as actors, dancers, musicians and vocalists.

At this level, performers are expected to be able to think on their feet by using initiative and sound judgement and to apply theoretical concepts and creative skills when responding to the unpredictable in a range of live performance situations.


Prerequisites

Not applicable.


Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Plan program to be presented

1.1. Confirm audition or competition requirements in consultation with relevant personnel

1.2. Undertake background research to determine the best way to approach audition or competition

1.3. Prepare a varied program that demonstrates own strengths in performance and that is well within the technical and stylistic ability of other performers required for performances

1.4. Observe protocols associated with the audition or competition context

1.5. Confirm arrangements with others as required to allow maximum rehearsal time

1.6. Where possible test venues and facilities in advance or inspect to assess warm-up possibilities

1.7. Organise promotional materials for presentation as required

2. Prepare for performances

2.1. Cost purchase or hire of resources and acquire as required

2.2. Comply with statutory requirements for music to be performed or used

2.3. Ensure that resources are available, functioning and ready to hand

3. Present performances

3.1. Arrive at venue punctually to allow for warm-up time and registration procedures

3.2. Use relaxation techniques to overcome performance anxiety as required

3.3. Ensure that dress and manner are appropriate to the performance context

3.4. Present promotional materials as required

3.5. Apply live performance knowledge and appropriate techniques to perform pieces to best of one’s ability

3.6. Listen carefully and respond to instructions given during audition or competition, including cutting off performances if and when instructed

3.7. Maintain a positive and courteous manner with others involved in audition or competition

3.8. If possible, organise for performance to be recorded

4. Review performances

4.1. Undertake follow-up required after audition or competition

4.2. Review any recording of own performance to determine areas for future improvement

4.3. Seek feedback from others and incorporate suggestions into future preparation for auditions and competitions

Required Skills

Required skills

communication, teamwork and organisational skills to:

respond appropriately to constructive feedback on own performance

respond appropriately to directions during auditions and competitions

present confidently in a competitive environment

initiative and enterprise skills to perform in a range of ways appropriate to the performance context

learning skills to improve live performance skills and expression through practice

listening skills to:

monitor and adjust performance as required

maintain correct tempi in movement sequences

literacy skills to interpret written instructions or information provided related to auditions and competitions

self-management and planning skills to:

plan performance program and practice time

identify areas of weakness and plan practice accordingly

maintain an appropriate standard of personal presentation in a competitive performance environment

technical and problem-solving skills to:

use a range of techniques in area of specialisation

respond appropriately to the unexpected in a competitive performance environment.

Required knowledge

broad understanding of OHS principles and legislation relevant to particular performance contexts, such as:

hearing protection

performance anxiety

policy and best practice

protection of body against overuse injury

safe lifting practices

issues and challenges that arise in the context of performing in a competitive performance environment

competition and audition protocols

well-developed knowledge of:

repertoire relevant to the technique or area of specialisation

performance vocabulary and terminology

principles and techniques in area of specialisation.

Evidence Required

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Evidence of the ability to:

prepare a program that meets the requirements of a competitive performance environment

perform proficiently in a competitive performance environment on at least two occasions (either real or simulated)

apply interpretation and expression skills

communicate effectively with others involved in competitive performance environments.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must ensure access to:

relevant resources and equipment

opportunities for competitive performance situations in either a real or simulated situation

appropriate venue with adequate space for solo performances.

Method of assessment

The following assessment methods are appropriate for this unit:

direct questioning combined with review of portfolios of evidence

third-party workplace reports of on-the-job performance

verbal or written questioning to test knowledge as listed in the required skills and knowledge section of this unit

direct observation or video recording of candidate performing in a competitive performance environment

case studies and scenarios as a basis for discussion of methods, strategies and other issues involved in preparing for and presenting in a competitive performance environment.

Assessment methods should closely reflect workplace demands (e.g. literacy) and the needs of particular groups (e.g. people with disabilities and people who may have literacy or numeracy difficulties, such as speakers of languages other than English, remote communities and those with interrupted schooling).

Guidance information for assessment

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, for example:

CUAOHS602A Develop techniques for maintaining resilience in a competitive environment

CUAPRF402A Develop conceptual and expressive skills as a performer

CUAPRF501A Refine performance skills.


Range Statement

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Requirements may include:

accompaniment

content, including:

contrasts within the program material

duration requirements for each piece presented

number of pieces to be prepared

particular stylistic requirements

performance breaks

repertoire

whether auditioners or judges will choose from a presented list, or judge pieces or parts of pieces

length of auditions

competition rules

competition judging criteria, including:

general appearance

costume

technique

execution

showmanship

entertainment value (the ‘x’ factor)

level of difficulty

originality and creativity

choreography

synchronisation

versatility

movement and dress standards

purpose

time

venue.

Relevant personnel may include:

accompanist

agent

coach

conductor

ensemble

mentor

musical director

other performers

representative of the auditioning body

competition judges

teacher or tutor.

Promotional materials may include:

biographies

kits

multimedia

performance demos:

audio

video

photographic materials.

Resourcesmay include:

appropriate footwear

costumes

microphones

scores

sheet music

tapes

props

sound equipment.

Statutory requirements may relate to:

copyright

duty of care

OHS.

Ways toensureresources are available and ready to hand may include:

checking that resources are appropriate to audition venue

checking condition of resources to be used and repairing or adjusting as required

inspecting and trying out, in advance if possible, resources supplied by auditioning body or venue.

Relaxation techniques may include:

deep breathing

light aerobic exercises

mind to muscle:

meditation

imagery or conscious visualisation

affirmations

stretching.

Live performance knowledge may include:

artistic expression

choreographic knowledge

findings from appropriate performance analyses and research

interpretation of directions for:

movement

voicing

expression

tempi

spatial dynamics

musical forms, systems, practices and customs

pattern and sequence recognition and memory

performance and rehearsal protocols

repertoire solo and ensemble protocols

visual and auditory imagination to develop performance material or interpretation.

Techniques may involve:

characterisation

improvisation

interpretation

partnering

performing a range of pieces in different styles in area of specialisation

physical coordination, such as:

falling

flexibility

turning

weight transfer.

Follow-upmay involve:

confirming an expected time for hearing the outcome of auditions

obtaining details of contract interview if result of audition is successful

following up with a courteous request for appraisal and further advice if audition result is unsuccessful

sending a follow-up letter for each audition, whether successful or not, to communicate appreciation of the opportunity and to allow for further opportunities

maintaining contact with people associated with competitions.


Sectors

Performing arts - performance


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing Information

No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of endorsement.