FACULTY OF ANIMATION, ARTS AND DESIGN

VISUAL AND PERFOMING ARTS

Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre

Performance

STUDENT HANDBOOK
AND
GENERAL GUIDELINES

2018/2019
Table Of Contents
Land Acknowledgement 4
Honours Bachelor Of Music Theatre Performance 5
Welcome 5
Mission Statement 5
Handbook Disclaimer 5
Staff Directory 6
Faculty Directory 6
Important Dates 8
2018-2019 Departmental Calendar 8
Our Community Standards 9
Academic Policies and Guildlines 10
Attendance Policy 10
Attendance Record 11
Allowable Absences for Auditions 11
Departmental Academic Standing Policy 11
General Policies Regarding Student Conduct 12
Academic and Professional Integrity 13
Academic Integrity Policy 13
Examples of Breaches of Academic Integrity 14
Policy on the Use of Electronic Devices in Class 15
Social Media Policy 15
Copyright Policy 15
Confidentiality/Privacy 16
Harassment and Discrimination Policy 16
Student Code of Conduct Policy 16
Sexual Assault and Sexual Violence Policy 17
Note On Challenging Environment 17
Student Responsibility 17
Performing Arts Cluster Guidelines 18
Getting Started 21
Orientation Week 21
Student Card 21
School Communications 21
Sheridan Email 21
Access Sheridan, MyStudentCentre and SLATE 22
Mailboxes 22
Notice Boards & Call Board 22
Facilities and Resources 23
Studio Bookings 23
Theatre Sheridan 23
Theatre Spaces 23
Library 23

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Student Services 24
Student Health 24
Physio Clinic 24
Counselling Services 24
Accessible Learning Services 25
Life at Sheridan 26
Curriculum 26
Breadth Courses 29
Grade Disputes 30
Grade Appeals 30
Students Probation, Academic Suspension, and Dismissal 31
Leave(s) Of Absence 32
Working 32
Outside Performance Opportunities 32
Student Representatives 33
Student Council 33
Acting Tutorials 33
Vocal Tutorials 33
Studio Rules 33
Campus Safety and Security 34
Lost and Found 34
Social Media 34
Observance of Religious Holidays 35
End of Semester 36
Assessments 36
Mid-Semester and End Of Term Interviews 36
Awards Night 36
Graduations Requirements 37
Degree Completion 37
Internships 37
Scholarship Resource 38
Financial Aid Office 38
Sheridan Aid 38
National Resources 39
Provincial and Territorial Resources 39
Financial Aid from other Provinces: 40
Acknowledgement Form 42
Sources: 43

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Land Acknowledgement
We would like to acknowledge that for thousands of years this has been and still is the
traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nations, Anishinaabe Nation, Huron-
Wendat and the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. Sheridan College sits on these lands and it is
our collective responsibility to honour and respect those who have gone before us, those who
are here, and those who have yet to come. We are grateful for the opportunity to be working on
this land.

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Honours Bachelor Of Music Theatre Performance

Welcome

On behalf of the administration, faculty and support staff of Sheridan College, we would like to
congratulate you on having been accepted into our prestigious Honours Bachelor of Music
Theatre Performance Program. Our program is the first of its kind in this country. It is a very
demanding program but as you will soon find out, it is also richly rewarding. We have an
outstanding department and we want you to participate in our program in the most positive and
productive ways possible. Therefore, we are providing you with this Music Theatre Student
Handbook that hopefully answers everything you will need to know about the department.
Please follow the steps listed below:

1. Read this Handbook carefully.

2. Fill out the Acknowledgement Form that states that you have read the Handbook and agree
to the policies and procedures outlined. This form serves as a contract between you and the
department.
3. Return the Acknowledgement Form to Dr. Marc Richard, Program Coordinator at your
orientation.
4. Please refer to the handbook when you want answers to your questions. Chances are, you’ll
find them right here.
5. If you do not find an answer to your question, see your Program Coordinator.

Mission Statement

To graduate music theatre artists who demonstrate courage, creativity and integrity, who
embody a well-rounded professionalism, who are engaged, who strive to realize their full
potential and who sustain a career in the music theatre industry and/or propel themselves into
collaborative or leadership roles that shape the industry both nationally and internationally.

Handbook Disclaimer

The information contained in this handbook is intended for the 2018-2019 academic year. While
every attempt has been made to make it as current as possible, it is important to note there may
be amendments to this document as the calendar year progresses. If that happens, students
will be advised of edits to this manual.

The information contained in this Handbook and other publications is designed to be self-
explanatory. The Faculty recognizes however, there may be specific questions about
regulations that are not answered here. Those questions should be addressed to the Program
Coordinator or Student Services.

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Staff Directory

Listed below are key personnel of the Faculty of Arts, Animation and Design directly connected
with the Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance. All are located in A100. Contact
information is listed below.

Ronni Rosenberg ronni.rosenberg@sheridancollege.ca

Dean, Faculty of Animation, Arts and Design
Faculty of Animation, Arts and Design
(905) 845-9430 x 2708

Mary Jane Carroll maryjane.carroll@sheridancollege.ca

Associate Dean, Visual and Performing Arts
Faculty of Animation, Arts and Design
(905) 845-9430 x 4203

Shannon Paternostro shannon.chellewpaternostro@sheridancollege.ca

Program Support Specialist
Faculty of Animation, Arts and Design
(905) 845-9430 x 3029

Edward (Ned) Loach edward.loach@sheridancollege.ca

Academic Portfolio Administrator
Faculty of Animation, Arts and Design
(905) 845-9430 x 2579

Deb Cowan deborah.cowan@sheridancollege.ca

Records and Registration Specialist
Office of the Registrar
(905) 845-9430 x 2888

Faculty Directory

To contact a member of the faculty, call the Sheridan College phone number: (905) 845-9430,
then enter the phone extension for the person you want to reach. Faculty may also be contacted
by their Sheridan email address listed below.

Greg Andrews x 2708 greg.andrews@sheridancollege.ca

Suzanne Bennett x 2113 suzanne.bennett1@sheridancollege.ca
Robert Gontier x 2725 robert.gontier@sheridancollege.ca
Gail Hakala x 2703 gail.hakala@sheridancollege.ca
Mimi Mekler x 2727 mimi.mekler@sheridancollege.ca
Keith Pike x 8308 keith.pike1@sheridancollege.ca
Alan Poaps x 2725 alan.poaps@sheridancollege.ca
Dr. Marc Richard x 2968 marc.richard1@sheridancollege.ca
Gillian Saunders x 2720 gillian.saunders@sheridancollege.ca

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Meredith Scott x 2709 meredith.scott@sheridancollege.ca
Mary-Lu Zahalan x 2711 marylu.zahalan@sheridancollege.ca

The Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance Program is divided into 4 Disciplines.
Faculty of each Discipline are listed below:

Vocal Music Discipline Acting Discipline Dance Discipline Music Theatre Discipline
Greg Andrews / Head Suzanne Bennett/ Head Gillian Saunders / Head Gail Hakala / Head

Peter Kadar Lara Arabian Robert Allan Anne Barnshaw
Steve Lucas Lorretta Bailey Kari Bodrug Anthony Bastianon
Jeff Madden Ron Cameron-Lewis Robin Calvert Melissa Bencic
Alan Poaps Laurence Follows Stephen Greig Suzanne Bennett
Dave Wilson Robert Gontier Barb Leese Patrick Bowman
Mary-Lu Zahalan Charlotte Gowdy Giustin MacLean Peggy Dwyer
Martin Julien Allison McCaughey Jill Filion
David Leyshon Dr. Marc Richard Robert Gontier
Melinda Little Derek Sangster Irena Hernandez
Allyson McMackon Julie Tomaino M.J. Johnson
Denise Norman Martin Julien
Alan Poaps Jeff Madden
Diana Reis Christopher Mounteer
Dr. Marc Richard Michael Mulrooney
Andrea Runge David Myers
Ralph Small Stephanie Omari
Terry Tweed Denise Oucharek
Mary-Lu Zahalan Tom Oliver
Keith Pike
Rebecca Poff
Dr. Marc Richard
Daniel Rutzen
Eliza-Jane Scott
Dr. Reid Spencer
Adam White
Denise Williams
Christopher Wilson
Stephen Woodjetts

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Important Dates

2018-2019 College Calendar

Please refer to the following link on the Sheridan College web site for a complete list of
important dates on the academic calendar:
https://www.sheridancollege.ca/admissions/academic-calendar/2018-2019-academic-
calendar
This is especially important when booking return flights home.

2018-2019 Departmental Calendar

Important dates for the Academic Calendar can be found in the summer newsletter.

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Our Community Standards

Sheridan’s Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance program maintains standards it

considers appropriate for those training to enter such a demanding profession. Grade standing
is only one measure. Faculty will also constantly assess attitude, discipline, attendance,
progression, skill and professional etiquette in a musical theatre career.

In accepting their offer into Sheridan, all students undertake to conduct themselves according to
the following standards, which are generally based on contractual requirements in their chosen
profession:
● Students will be issued a course outline published on Sheridan’s Learning And Teaching
Environment (SLATE), for each course. The course outline will prescribe course details
and content, a syllabus, course readings, course critical performance and learning
outcomes, and method of evaluation for the course to outline expected standards.
● Any difficulty in meeting assignment, reading or test deadlines must be discussed with
the professor by the student concerned. The problem must be discussed sufficiently in
advance of the deadline for alternative arrangements to be made if the professor deems
them appropriate. Late assignments are only accepted under extenuating
circumstances, which must be discussed with the professor.
● Every student must adhere to the attendance regulations established by the program.
● Any student whose attendance, punctuality, preparation or commitment causes the
faculty to feel that his/her attitude toward training lacks the discipline demanded by the
profession, or is deemed to be failing in their performance and production classes, shall
be warned by mid-semester interview with their Program Coordinator and/or Associate
Dean.
● Students should expect classes, workshops, rehearsals, etc. to be scheduled for
evenings and weekends as well as weekdays at the School's discretion. It is the
student’s responsibility to mark dates in their own personal calendar.
● No student may take part in outside amateur or professional engagements without the
permission of the Associate Dean. Requests for such permission should be in writing
and will be reviewed by the program faculty concerned and the Associate Dean prior to
any final decision.
● Students, whose overall performance in, or attitude towards required courses is
unsatisfactory, may have their role assignments restricted or withheld.
● The Honours Bachelor Music Theatre Performance Program functions in accordance
with the Canadian Actors’ Equity Associations Respectful Workplaces Policy. Issues of
Harassment, and workplace abuse will not be tolerated. If you are being intimidated,
bullied, or harassed, be it verbally, physically, or sexually, go first to the co-ordinator, or
in lieu, contact the Associate Dean.

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Academic Policies and Guildlines
To view a full list of all of Sheridan's policies and procedures, go here:
https://caps.sheridancollege.ca/student-guide/academic-policies-and-procedures.aspx

Attendance Policy

Because of the participatory nature of these classes, full attendance is mandatory. All absences
must be reported by the student to the instructor involved, the Head of the Discipline and the
Program Coordinator.

All students are expected to attend classes from the first day of the semester including
Orientation week through the assessment period each semester. Regular attendance at
classes, tutorials and rehearsals is considered essential to the successful completion of all
Sheridan courses. Sequence and continuity are difficult to maintain when attendance varies.
Students are expected to discuss absences with their faculty should the need arise.

Prior permission may be granted for absence due to extraordinary circumstances (e.g.
absences involving injuries or health problems, family crises or deaths, etc.) only from the
Program Coordinator in consultation with the professor involved.

If the student misses any class due to illness, they MUST:

● inform the professor involved by 8:00 AM on the day of the illness via Voice Mail or
email,
● inform themselves of the materials covered during the missed class and do whatever is
possible to catch up, and
● obtain any handouts distributed during the missed class, and
● complete any homework assignments and be properly prepared for the next class.

For each class, tutorial or coaching missed without proper notice will result in a 5% penalty
deducted from the final course grade. Lateness is penalized at 2%.

It is fully the student's responsibility to accomplish these requirements. Failing to do so and/or

absence for any other reason will result in the following penalties:
* first time student loses 5% of the final grade of the overall course for each
component missed
* second time student loses 10% of the final grade of the overall course for each
component missed
* third time student loses 15% of the final grade of the overall course for each
component missed and will meet with the Program Coordinator.
* fourth time student may be asked to withdraw from the program.

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Penalties may be waived only at the discretion of the Program Coordinator in consultation with
the Professor(s) involved.

Attendance Record

Attendance of all classes and tutorials will be recorded daily. Students who miss more than 2
classes of any component in any course will be flagged with a Problematic Attendance Record.
Students with an accumulation of Problematic Attendance records over their first three years will
not be eligible for leading or supporting roles in Theatre Sheridan productions.

Allowable Absences for Auditions

Allowable absences are not automatically assumed, but permission must be granted by the
Professor(s) or Instructor(s) and the Program Coordinator. For students in production, said
permission must be granted by the creative team and the Program Coordinator.

1st and 2nd Year students: allowed 1 free absence per term exclusively for auditions. This
absence is not allowed to attend a personal event such as a wedding.
3rd Year students: allowed 3 absences per term for auditions only.
4th Year students: allowed an unlimited amount of absences per term for auditions only.

Departmental Academic Standing Policy

Returning students - check your myStudent page on Access Sheridan.

https://access.sheridaninstitute.ca/

Students on Academic Probation (AP), with Graduation Warnings (GW) and students with
a problematic attendance record will not be allowed to participate in College-organized
external performances or be provided with paid responsibilities, such as participation on
audition days or Student Council.

We do not want to provide students who are not in good academic standing with additional
opportunities/responsibilities that may interfere with academic success.

To further support academic success and graduation, students on Academic Probation

(AP) or with Graduation Warnings (GW) and students with a problematic attendance
record, or missing electives in their fourth year, will not be eligible for principal or
supporting roles in production. Students must remain in good academic standing or
roles will be reassigned. Students in good academic standing are prepared to balance the
academic rigour with the additional demands of supporting and principal roles in production.

It is up to you to keep track of your Academic Standing. Be vigilant! Make sure you access
your transcript online on a regular basis. Should an anomaly appear (e.g. a missing or incorrect

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grade), please notify the Coordinator and contact our Office of the Registrar Records Specialist,
Deborah Cowan at deborah.cowan@sheridancollege.ca or at (905) 845-9430 extension 2888.

General Policies Regarding Student Conduct

Acceptable behaviour is expected of Sheridan Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance

students at all times. Examples of behaviour considered unacceptable include but are not
limited to:
● All forms of academic dishonesty, including cheating and plagiarism.
● All other forms of dishonesty, including knowingly furnishing false information to the
institution and forgery and alteration or use of institutional documents of identification
with intent to defraud.
● Intentional disruption or obstruction of teaching, practice, rehearsal or performance,
administration, disciplinary proceedings, or other Sheridan–sponsored activities, events,
or performances.
● Bullying, physical assault, verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, stalking, harassment,
coercion, and/or conduct which threatens or endangers the physical or mental health or
safety of any person including fellow students and Professors. This applies to social
media and extends to behaviour beyond the classroom.
● Possession, use, or distribution of any controlled substance or illegal drug or drug
paraphernalia.
● Illegal use, possession, or distribution of alcoholic beverages or unauthorized use of
alcoholic beverages in campus facilities, public intoxication, and drunk and disorderly
conduct.
● Behaviour or activities which endanger the safety of one’s self or others, including but
not limited to: throwing objects from buildings, or the unauthorized storage, possession,
and/or use of firearms, fireworks, dangerous weapons, or hazardous chemicals.
● Intentionally or recklessly misusing or damaging fire or other safety equipment.
● False reporting of emergency; the false report of a bomb, fire, or other emergency in any
building, structure, or facility by means of activating a fire alarm or in any other manner.
● Vandalism, the intentional damage, destruction, or defacement of Sheridan property or
the property of any person.
● Attempted or actual theft of Sheridan property or the property of any person.
● Unauthorized presence or forcible entry into a Sheridan owned or leased facility.
● Unauthorized use of Sheridan property, equipment, or keys.
● Forging, transferring, altering, or otherwise misusing a student identification card
(ONECard), or any other institutional document or record.
● Unauthorized use of the name, resources, or facilities of Sheridan without discussion
with and approval by the appropriate administrator.
● Unauthorized use of the name or insignia of Sheridan by individuals or groups.
● Theft or other abuse of computer time, files, or equipment.
● Failure to comply with the direction of Sheridan officials, including Sheridan Security
officers and other staff or faculty acting in the performance of their duties, including
failure to complete judicial sanctions.

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 ● Gambling in any form.
● Unauthorized use of candles or open flames in Sheridan facilities.
● Violation of restrictions, conditions, or terms of any sanctions resulting from a previously
held disciplinary hearing.
● Aiding or abetting any conduct described above.

Academic and Professional Integrity

The Sheridan Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance program educates and trains
performing artists through studio instruction, performance, and classroom work. However, a
Sheridan Musical Theatre education is not merely artistic. Our goal is to provide an artistic,
academic and ethical experience that will resonate throughout each student’s professional,
academic, and personal life.

We value the highest standards of academic and professional integrity. All instances of
academic dishonesty undermine our mission in fundamental ways. Indeed, such instances
endanger the very idea of education. Teaching and learning require fair and equitable
evaluation. Any dishonesty distorts that effort, devalues the work of others, and compromises
the standards of our Sheridan community. Moreover, such dishonesty is wrong. It not only
undermines the fundamental goals of education, but also tolerates personal actions that we, as
a community of professors and learners, find reprehensible.

As a community of performing artists, we must also remember that issues of integrity and
honesty are not limited to written forms of expression or to examinations. The choreographer
who copies the creation of another and claims it as his/her own is academically dishonest, as is
the composer who borrows themes with no effort to integrate those borrowings into a personal
and unique musical expression.

Finally, there are issues of professional integrity that must be honoured by an ethical
community of artists, professors, and students. Sheridan will not tolerate, for example, the public
performance of another artist’s original work without securing appropriate permission from the
creator(s), which may come with an insistence on some payment of royalties.

Academic Integrity Policy

Sheridan takes Academic Honesty very seriously. It is considered a breach of academic

honesty to claim that the ideas, writing, projects or creations of someone else are your own. It is
also considered a breach of honesty if you attempt to alter, suppress, falsify or make up
research data or results, or forge an official academic record, application or document, or cheat.

All Sheridan students are expected to be aware of breaches of academic honesty and are
responsible for consequences if it’s believed that a breach of academic integrity has taken
place. Suspected instances of academic honesty will be investigated and disciplined
accordingly. It is up to you to know the rules and expectations.

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Examples of Breaches of Academic Integrity

Cheating is the attempt to gain an improper advantage on an academic evaluation.

Impersonation is taking someone else’s place or having someone else take your place in
class, in a test, examination or interview, presentation or field placement, when that situation
involves academic evaluation.

Plagiarism is the act of presenting another person’s words, research or ideas as your own
without acknowledging the source of the information used. An individual can plagiarize by
receiving “help” from another person or by merely copying what they tell you to do, say or write,
without personally learning the content.

Improper Research Practice: Academic research includes the collection, analysis,

interpretation and publication of information or data obtained in the scientific laboratory or in the
field.

Falsification or Unauthorized Modification of an Academic Document/Record: It is an act

of academic dishonesty to falsify, fabricate or in any way modify, either through leaving out or
changing an academic document or record.

Obstruction of the Academic Activities of Another: It is a violation of academic integrity to

interfere with the learning activities of another in order to gain unfair academic advantage.

Inappropriate Use of Digital Technology: This includes but is not limited to: unauthorized
entry into a computer file for the purposes of using, reading or changing its content,
unauthorized transfer of files or part of a file, unauthorized use of another’s identification or
password, or the use of computing facilities to interfere with, or alter the work of another
student, faculty member or staff member.

Aiding and Abetting: Encouraging, knowingly enabling or causing others to do, or attempt, any
of the above with intent to mislead a Faculty, academic unit, program, office or committee as to
a Student’s academic status, qualifications, actions or preparation shall be considered a breach
of academic integrity.

Consequences
A finding that a breach of academic integrity has occurred will lead to the imposition of a range
of sanctions as detailed in the Academic Integrity Procedure. Consequences for students who
are deemed to have breached this policy include:
● Written Warning/Reduced Grade/”0” Grade
● Failure, “F” Grade in course
● Course Termination (TM Grade) in course
● Administrative Withdrawal for 2 terms

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 ● Suspension
● Expulsion

Resources and support are available to foster the understanding and practice of academic
integrity at Sheridan can be found here:
https://www.sheridancollege.ca/life-at-sheridan/student-services/library-services/academic-
integrity

Accusations of academic dishonesty may be brought to Dr. Marc Richard, Program Coordinator
by faculty, students, or administrators.

Policy on the Use of Electronic Devices in Class

Digital recording devices such as cell phones are not allowed to be in view and/or operational in
the classroom at any time. The use of laptop computers, iPads (or similar) in the class is a
privilege not a right. The privilege is granted as long as the student is using the device to
complete class work, or any other use as directed by the professor. This privilege can be
revoked if a student uses the device for any other purpose or posts on social media without prior
permission. These activities are distracting to the other students in the class and are
disrespectful of the learning and teaching process. Recording devices are allowed in the
classroom but only with the professor’s and fellow student’s permission. This is for two reasons:
1) reliance on recordings can impede one’s ability to learn how to make effective notes in class,
and 2) recording the class without the professor’s knowledge or permission represents a
potential violation of privacy and intellectual property rights. Students who have prior
documented accommodation requiring them to record a class, should speak with the professor.
If electronic devices are misused, students may be asked to leave class and lose 5% from the
course.

Social Media Policy

Students who have their own personal Social Media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube,
Flickr, Instagram, SnapChat, Pinterest, Blogs, and Wikis) should not have these media accounts
be perceived as having originated from Sheridan College or as being an expression of
Sheridan’s position or opinion.

Copyright Policy

Sheridan is committed to informing students with the copyright issues they will encounter in their
learning and scholarship activities. Policy information on Copy Right may be found here:
http://sheridancollege.libguides.com/copyright

Issues of professional integrity that must be honoured by an ethical community of artists,

professors, and students. Sheridan will not tolerate, for example, the performance of original

15
work without securing appropriate permission from the creator(s), which may come with an
insistence on some payment of royalties.

Confidentiality/Privacy

Sheridan respects each student's right to privacy. Notwithstanding, in performance courses,

students receive formative assessments (or qualitative feedback rather than grades) that focus
on the details of a performance in a class, which is by nature a public setting. While such
sharing of information publicly may seem to infringe on an individual’s right to privacy, the
practice of “giving notes” is common in a professional theatre setting and therefore such
comments should be received in the spirit of learning. To maintain a safe learning space,
students should not share personal information divulged in class (intentionally or unintentionally)
outside of class.

Harassment and Discrimination Policy

Sheridan College is committed to provide a working and learning environment that is free of
discrimination and harassment and supportive of the dignity, self-esteem and fair treatment of
everyone taking part in its activities. The college seeks to create a climate of mutual respect that
reinforces opportunity and allows for each person to contribute fully to the development and
well-being of the community. Sheridan College will not tolerate any form of harassment or
discrimination as defined by the Ontario Human Rights Code. Our department’s policies are
also in alignment with Canadian Actors’ Equity Associations Respectful Workspace Policy which
may be found at the link below:
http://www.caea.com/EquityWeb/MemberServices/not-in-our-space/RespecfulWorkspacePolicy.pdf

In the event that harassment or discrimination is alleged, every effort will be made to work with
the people involved to find a fair and timely resolution of the matter. It is recognized that the
most effective way to deal with harassment and discrimination is through preventative action,
including informing, educating and good management.

Student Code of Conduct Policy

All Sheridan students are expected to act responsibly and uphold standards of conduct that
form the basis for good citizenship. Sheridan is dedicated to creating an academic community
that is safe and respectful, where students develop individually and in collaboration with their
peers. The primary purpose of this policy is to protect the rights of Sheridan community
members and to provide a guideline for appropriate behaviour. This policy will identify behaviour
that is considered student Misconduct (as defined in the policy) and outlines the sanctions that
may be imposed on a student when acting in a manner that is inconsistent with Sheridan’s
policies, including but not limited to this Student Code of Conduct Policy.

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Sexual Assault and Sexual Violence Policy

All members of the Sheridan community have a right to work and study in an environment that is
free of any form of Sexual Violence. This document sets out Sheridan’s Policy and response
protocol to Sexual Violence and ensures that those who experience Sexual Violence are
believed and their rights respected, Sheridan has a process of investigation that protects the
rights of individuals and holds individuals who have committed an act of Sexual Violence
accountable. For detailed information, please see the following link:
https://www.sheridancollege.ca/about/respectful-and-safe-communities/sexual-assault

Note On Challenging Environment

One of the central educational goals of the Music Theatre Performance Program is to produce
socially conscious artists—artists who are aware of and capable of participating in challenging
dialogues about social injustice and inequality. This means that our courses, public events, and
productions often grapple with difficult subject matter, including sex, violence, terror, and illness
(among other topics). While these presentations will no doubt provoke strong emotions and
cause discomfort, we feel that the diverse experiences they bring about are also essential to the
development of our students’ critical faculties, empathy, and understanding of the world. Rather
than warning our students in advance about every potentially uncomfortable topic that they
might encounter in the course of their studies, we instead encourage students to meet them
head on in the classroom, in rehearsals, and performances, and to engage in civil and
compassionate debate about the possibilities and effects of staging difficult knowledge. (York
University)

Student Responsibility

Each Student undertakes to:

● To become familiar and to comply with all the school’s policies and regulations.
● Conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times.
● Take advantage of the varied opportunities available by attending introduction sessions,
participating in timetabled classes, attending sessions with tutors, performing in public
productions as cast.
● Take responsibility for managing their own learning, actively engage in the program,
spend sufficient, regular time in private study and practice, and inform the departmental
office of changes of circumstance.
● Follow and attend the program as specified for the year and obtain agreement from the
Department, in advance, for any essential absences.
● Attend all scheduled assessment events and submit coursework by the stated deadlines,
and actively engage with the resulting feedback.
● Participate in processes to nominate or elect student representatives and ensure that
representatives are made aware of student views and the issues that they should raise
on behalf of the student body.
● Talk to a member of faculty if the student is experiencing problems.
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 ● At the beginning of each semester, to register any ongoing documented physical or
emotional challenges in order to access appropriate support to Sheridan’s Accessibility
Services.
● Immediately inform by email the Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance
Program Coordinator and Associate Dean of any recently sustained disability as well as
reporting to Sheridan’s Accessibility Services. For more information, see p. 20 of this
document.
● Respect the physical environment of the institution, including residence and respect the
rights, privacy and property of others.
● Take responsibility for the prompt and timely payment of tuition fees and other charges
made by the School and plan their personal finances, making use of the resources
provided by the Financial Aid Office and Student Scholarships.
● Keep track of academic status and regularly monitor any grades that may affect their
academic advancement.

Performing Arts Cluster Guidelines

The Performing Arts Cluster guidelines are an elaboration of Sheridan’s official Harassment and
Discrimination Policy and contain within them all of the principles, policies, definitions and
procedures of the latter. Sheridan’s policy is based on the Ontario Human Rights Code, which
specifically prohibits discrimination in the provision of education on the grounds of age,
citizenship, creed, family status, race, sex including gender identification, sexual orientation,
ancestry, colour, ethnic origin, disability, place of origin and marital or same sex partnership
status.

The College defines harassment thus: One or a series of unwanted, unsolicited remarks,
behaviours or communications in any form, which have intent or effect of:

● Creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive psychological or emotional climate for work

or study and/or
● Undermining work/academic performance and/or
● Preventing or impairing full and equal enjoyment of employment/educational services,
benefits, and/or opportunities.

The Performing Arts cluster will enforce Sheridan’s Harassment and Discrimination Policy in all
respects. The cluster recognizes that harassment is a complicated matter and that the potential
for misunderstanding and misinterpretation may be greater within a theatre program. Therefore,
the Performing Arts cluster has developed these guidelines to assist our mutual understanding
of what does, and what does not constitute harassment within the cluster’s classrooms, studios,
and production environments.

18
The Performing Arts cluster affirms the following principles:

1. The performing arts portray, interpret and magnify life in all its dimensions. Both the lighter
and the darker sides of human nature co-exist inevitably on the stage as they do in life,
wherein beauty, nobility and romance are intertwined with violence, madness, perversion,
oppression, etc. It is intrinsic to training in theatre that we explore such dimensions.
Performing artists must cultivate within themselves the imagination and emotional depth
required to internalize and simulate these dimensions as well as the capacity and
techniques needed to arouse a powerful empathetic response from an audience exposed to
them. Consequently, issues of sex, race, violence etc. and the emotions they arouse will
inevitably be explored in the course of our instruction, performance and studio work.

2. The prospective theatre professional must learn in an environment that encourages him/her
to explore these dimensions freely. It is in the nature of artistic work to challenge, to doubt,
and to expose our most cherished values to ridicule - in short, to make us uneasy. The
Performing Arts cluster places an extremely high value on the free exercise of artistic
expression, even when the content or mode of expression may cause discomfort and
perhaps even outrage.

3. Professional training in the areas of creating and performing theatre, necessitates a degree
of physical contact between participating students, and between students and faculty, that
would be unacceptable in most other social and educational situations. Students will touch
each other routinely while partnering in dance, and while engaged in choreographic or
improvisational work in acting or dance. Scene work will also bring students into close
physical contact, including various degrees of simulated intimacy. In acting and dance
classes, students will be touched by faculty in the diaphragm, upper and lower rib cage,
abdomen, sternum, spine, back, inner and outer thigh, shoulders, posterior, limbs, neck and
head. In addition, costume measurements and fittings will require that wardrobe faculty and
students touch performing students in a variety of places. Students should consult the
document on Pillars of Safe Intimacy: Rehearsal and Performance Practice:
https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/924101_1620d7333f6a4809a2765257e750e255.pdf

4. Performing Arts faculty endeavour to teach students, through the development of technique
to communicate emotional content compellingly on the stage. This work requires
motivational teaching and adherence to rigorous standards. Consequently, faculty may at
times be direct in their constructive criticism. It is important that we distinguish between
constructive criticism and the imposition of reasonable demands on the one hand, and
derogatory language, including harassing language, on the other.

A shared appreciation for the principles outlined above will enable faculty and students to
proceed with their work in a mutually respectful and enlightened environment, minimizing the
potential for confusion between harassing behaviour and the necessities of artistic training.
Often the difference between the two will be a matter of purpose or intent (e.g. a hand on the
buttocks may serve a legitimate pedagogical purpose; conversely, it could be a form of

19
unwanted sexual attention). Since intent is open to interpretation, the Performing Arts cluster
has established the following procedures to clarify the nature of potentially ambiguous teaching
and learning practices.

● It is the obligation of each faculty member to familiarize students with the nuances of
their personal pedagogical style and methodology.
● Students may reasonably expect to be advised of the purpose and parameters of any
teaching mode or studio exercise where physical contact is likely to occur, and faculty
will be responsible for imparting this information.
● Where a student engaged in character exploration intends to portray a character
involved in harassing behaviour (e.g. uttering racial slurs, making sexually aggressive
gestures, behaving in a physically violent manner, etc.), and such behaviour is to be
directed toward non-participating class members, they must inform the class of this
intention prior to the start of the work. When a student fails to so notify the class, it will
be the professor’s responsibility to interrupt the work, to remind the student of their
obligation to inform the class, and to allow any class member who may wish to leave the
room. If the professor believes the student’s work to be gratuitously offensive, they have
the right and responsibility to stop the work.
● No student will be required to expose genitalia or other parts of the body personally
embarrassing to the student. No student will be required to disrobe completely in front of
another person. Nudity in rehearsal or performance is permissible, provided it is
voluntary on the part of the student and approved as artistically and educationally
appropriate by the Associate Dean.

In the event that you experience such behaviour, you are encouraged to speak to the person
involved, if you are able to do so. In the event that you are unsure whether an incident
constitutes harassment, or you wish to know what the next steps are to make a complaint, you
are welcome to seek clarification from your Program Coordinator, Associate Dean, or Student
Rights and Responsibilities Office in Student Services. Additionally, all members of the
Sheridan Community may access the office of the Manager Equity and Human Rights Services
at ext. 2229.

Note: While harassment complaints are rarely vexatious or frivolous (claiming harassment
where none exists) it is important to note if a complaint is vexatious or frivolous, Sheridan’s
policy provides for disciplinary actions for complaints of this nature, and it should be noted that
such transgressions will be treated seriously.

20
Getting Started

Orientation Week

Orientation is a weeklong event prior to the start of classes designed to assist first year students
in making a successful transition to life at Sheridan. It is an opportunity to explore the campus,
connect with the faculty and peers, and learn about the academic program as well as the
services that are available for support. See Summer Newsletter for details.

Student Card

In order to receive student ID and Sheridan Student Access Cards, (known as the student
ONECard), students must bring one piece of government issued photo ID (e.g. passport, health
card, driver’s license), their Sheridan student number, and either their Fee Payment Receipt or
Proof of Fee Deferral to the Instructional Technology and Support Centre, Room C148, located
in the Learning Commons. ITSC is open year-round from Monday to Friday, 7:30 am to 11:00
pm as well as weekends 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. During the first week of classes, a mobile unit is
also set up on the main level for student card setup.

All students are responsible to have their Sheridan ONECard with them at all times. These IDs
are also used to gain access to class specific locations, such as the tutorial rooms and the MIDI
lab.

School Communications

Students hold the responsibility to keep informed by (but not limited to):
1. Regularly and consistently checking their AccessSheridan account, including but not limited
to MyStudentCentre and Sheridan 365 Outlook WebMail
2. Checking their personal G-Wing Mailboxes daily
3. Checking notices posted on both the Call Board (Audition, Rehearsal & Tutorial Schedules)
and the Notice Boards (Academic Notices) located outside the Faculty Office
4. Reading the student handbooks and subsequent policies

Sheridan Email

Most of the communication on campus is facilitated by the Sheridan 365 Outlook WebMail
system. Each student will receive a Sheridan email address that will serve as their main
channel of communication between them and the faculty. Sheridan requires that students
become familiar with their student email and strongly encourages them to monitor it on a daily
basis. Students should make it a habit to check their email regularly during the school day, as
each student is responsible for any information disseminated in this manner. Faculty will only
conduct electronic communication via Sheridan email resources. It is strongly encouraged that

21
students forward their Sheridan Webmail to a personal account for immediate access. For
information on forwarding your Sheridan Webmail to an existing personal email address, see
the IT Desk to speak with an associate.

Communication to professors should be polite and respectful. Please avoid salutations such as
“yo or hey there” instead try Dear Marc, or Hello Marc. Please don’t expect professors to
respond to email inquiries after school hours or on weekends. When a professor does offer
assistance by responding or writes you an email, always thank them in a timely manner.

Access Sheridan, MyStudentCentre and SLATE

Access Sheridan is a dedicated Sheridan website that serves as the hub for all of the
information pertaining to records as a student at the college. Students must login with the user
name provided to them by the school to access information. Under Access Sheridan, students
using the MyStudentCentre feature will gain access to grades and financial documents, and
select breadth courses when appropriate. SLATE is the primary Sheridan website that is used
to view course outlines, syllabi, and course contents, and submit online work. A working
knowledge of these Sheridan-regulated websites is required to sign up for classes each
semester and to complete the requirements of courses.

Mailboxes

There are three mailboxes in use for communication. All students will be assigned a mailbox
beside GB07 in the basement of the G-Wing, where important notices can be dropped off and
marks returned. Students should be sure to check and empty their personal contents of these
mailboxes daily. Students are expected to look only at their personal mailbox. Students may
deliver completed assignments and/or papers to faculty or staff to the departmental mailbox
outside the Music Theatre Performance Faculty Office, E101 in the slot assigned for each
discipline. Individual faculty and staff mailboxes are located inside E101, which can be
accessed by using the phone located outside the office door.

Notice Boards & Call Board

Each year of Sheridan’s Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance program is given a
bulletin board- “The Board”- in the E-wing leading towards the E101 office. Students must check
this board every morning, and throughout the day, for class groupings, accompanist rehearsal
sign-ups, class and assessment schedules, and other important announcements/opportunities
pertaining to all students.

Tutorial Schedules for all years, and Audition, Rehearsal & Performance Schedules for Senior
Years are posted on a separate Call Board located directly outside the Faculty Office.

22
Facilities and Resources

Tutorial rooms are available on the Main level of the G-Wing for the use of all students enrolled
in the program. As well, studios in the H-Wing and the G-Wing Basement may be available
from time to time. In order to enter the tutorial rooms, students must swipe their ONECard in
front of the scanner to the left of the door. If students are in the rehearsal spaces outside of
normal curriculum hours, they may be asked for their student identification card to prove they
are an active Sheridan student.

An inventory of all studio equipment is listed outside of each room. Students are responsible for
keeping the rehearsals spaces clean and uncluttered by ensuring all furniture is returned to its
place and that any garbage brought into the room is removed and thrown into the appropriate
recycling/garbage containers. Students must also ensure the G-Wing equipment cabinets are
locked, lights turned off, and the sound system powered down when they are done rehearsing.
The studio or classroom must be left the way it was found.

Studio Bookings

Studio bookings are reservable by all students in the Music Theatre Performance Program as
well as Performing Arts Prep. Students. These studios are located in the H wing and the
basement of the G and B wings. Students should download the Setmore App to access this
booking feature.

Theatre Sheridan

See Production Handbook

Theatre Spaces

MacDonald-Heaslip Hall
MacDonald-Heaslip Hall, a 240 seat theatre, serves as Sheridan’s Mainstage production space.
It is located beside the B-Wing Main Entrance,

Studio Theatre
Located in the basement of the G-Wing, Sheridan’s Studio Theatre is a flexible “blackbox”
theatre space.

Library

The Sheridan Library is being updated on a regular basis, and currently stands as a home for a
wealth of musical theatre anthologies, libretti, scripts, scores, and songbooks, as well as a
collection of plays. A play catalogue listing the individual titles in every drama anthology exists.
These are accessible online and at the Learning Commons. Students must display their

23
ONECard to borrow items from the library, as this student card acts as a library card throughout
the semester. Unpaid library fines will result in blocked registration and withheld grades.

See the link below for more information on the Library Services:
https://www.sheridancollege.ca/life-at-sheridan/student-services/library-services/contact-
us/trafalgar

Student Services

Student Health

The Health Centre provide physical and mental health services to Sheridan students.
Physicians are available, by appointment. All services are strictly confidential and no information
is released to anyone without the patient's written authorization unless required by law.
Registered Nurses can be seen on a drop-in basis. Please note that Doctor’s notes will not be
provided unless you were treated in the Health Centre at Sheridan on the day when you were
sick. Follow the link below for more information on health services available at Sheridan:
https://www.sheridancollege.ca/life-at-sheridan/student-services/health.aspx

Physio Clinic

An onsite Physio Clinic is available to our program. You will sign up through The Health Centre.
Payment will be submitted through direct billing to your insurance provider. The clinic is open
the following times:

Tuesday 12:30pm - 2:00pm

Thursday 11:00am - 1:00pm

Counselling Services

Due to the high demands of the program, it is not uncommon for students to feel overwhelmed
at times and in need of extra support. If this happens, they are strongly encouraged to seek out
the assistance of counselling services offered at Sheridan as quickly as possible. Appointments
can be made at the Student Services Centre Counselling Office located in the B-Wing Room
B104, directly across from Tim Horton’s. There, students will find trained counsellors who are
well equipped to help them through any difficulty they may be having.

Counselling Services supports the academic, personal, and social growth of students from
diverse backgrounds and with specific, individual needs. The college years can be times of
accelerated growth and learning, significant challenges, and considerable stress. It is normal –
and even expected – for students to encounter difficult or stressful events. However, when
students use the resources available to them, there is a much greater chance of success and
overall well being.

24
Counselling Services are offered to assist students in building solutions to their own personal,
emotional, or interpersonal concerns that may be impacting their academic success at
Sheridan. Counselling appointments are free and confidential. They also offer drop-in sessions,
and can make referrals to other community services. Appointments may be made by calling
(905) 845-9430 ext. 2557.

Follow the link below for more information on Counselling Services:

https://www.sheridancollege.ca/life-at-sheridan/student-services/counselling-services.aspx

Accessible Learning Services

The Accessible Learning Services Office facilitates equal access for eligible students with
disabilities by coordinating appropriate academic accommodations and support services.
Accommodation plans and services are tailored to correspond with the disability-related needs
of each student and are determined based on the documentation provided and program specific
requirements. In order to be eligible to receive any type of accommodation, a student must
disclose their disability to the Accessible Learning Office staff in a timely manner AND provide
appropriate and current documentation. Please note academic accommodations expire and
must be renewed each term as required. Definitions of what constitutes a disability can be
found on the link below.
The Accessible Learning Services Office can be contacted at Tel: (905) 845 9430 Extension
8196. Follow the link below for more information on Accessible Learning Services:
https://www.sheridancollege.ca/life-at-sheridan/student-services/accessible-learning-
services/about.aspx

25
Life at Sheridan

Curriculum

Sheridan's Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance gives students theoretical and
practical training in four core disciplines of acting, singing, dance and music through a
comprehensive and holistic approach that will prepare them to perform in an international
landscape. A special focus entrepreneurial skills prepares graduates to assume leadership roles
in the entertainment industry or to create their own production companies.

Sheridan is Canada’s best-known musical theatre school, where students get personalized
attention from professors and performing arts industry recruiters. Students will be held to high
standards in this rigourous musical theatre program and refine their skills while performing in
professional surroundings before paying customers. Students will enjoy:
● Personalized instruction and coaching in acting, singing and dancing, with plenty of time
with professors.
● Professional guidance to polish their auditioning skills and work ethic.
● Opportunities to showcase your performing arts talent in high-profile settings.

Finally, attendance at public performances is considered vital and integral to an education in the
performing arts. To maximize one’s education requires attendance at these events. Students
are afforded a wealth of diverse opportunities to attend performances at Sheridan and in the
theatre community beyond. Those who avail themselves of as many of these opportunities as
possible enhance their formal training significantly. It is the policy of Sheridan Musical Theatre
to strongly recommend that all students be responsible for this aspect of their development.
Individual courses may have additional performance attendance requirements, which will be
outlined appropriately.

26
 Course names and codes below reflect the Program Map for students who entered The
Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance Program in 2017 and 2018.
SEMESTER 1 (FALL) SEMESTER 2 (WINTER)
THET10330 Acting 1 THET13314 Acting 2
Acting Techniques Text Analysis
Improvisation Scene Study
Authenticity Voice & Text
Impulse and Archetypes Acting Tutorial

THET10036 Vocal Music 1 THET16859 Vocal Music 2

Ear Training Ear Training
Music Theory Music Theory
Vocal Technique Vocal Technique
Vocal Tutorial Vocal Tutorial

THET13431 Dance 1 THET10049 Dance 2

Ballet Physiology & Anatomy
Jazz Ballet
Tap Jazz
Tap
THET13921 Music Theatre 1
Historically Informed Performance Practice I(HIPP) THET15892 Music Theatre 2
History of Western Performing Arts Historically Informed Performance Practice (HIPP)
Music Theatre Vocal Performance Music Theatre Vocal Performance
Dance Styles Dance Styles
BREADTH ELECTIVE: ENGL17889GD Composition and
Rhetoric BREADTH ELECTIVE

SEMESTER 3 (FALL) SEMESTER 4 (WINTER)

THET20918 Acting 3 THET25142 Acting 4

Scene Study (Moderns) Devised Theatre
Voice and Text Voice and Text
Clown Acting Tutorial
Acting Tutorial
THET20587 Vocal Music 4
THET23921 Vocal Music 3 Ear Training
Ear Training Ensemble (Commercial)
Music Theory Commercial Performance
Piano Keyboard Vocal Technique
Commercial Performance Vocal Tutorial
Vocal Technique
THET23672 Dance 4
Vocal Tutorial
Movement Analysis and Criticism
Ballet
THET27198 Dance 3 Jazz
Creative Process Tap
Ballet Creative Dance Project
Jazz
Tap THET25436 Music Theatre 4
Historically Informed Performance Practice (HIPP)
THET23314 Music Theatre 3 Music Theatre Vocal Performance
Historically Informed Performance Practice (HIPP) Dance Styles
Music Theatre Vocal Performance
Dance Styles BREADTH ELECTIVE
BREADTH ELECTIVE

27
SEMESTER 5 (FALL) SEMESTER 6 (WINTER)
THET34857 Acting 5 THET39798 Acting 6
Stage Combat Play Study
Scene Study (Shakespeare) Voice and Text
Voice and Text On Camera Acting
Creative Acting Project Prep Acting Tutorial
Acting Tutorial
Creative Acting Project THET31975 Vocal Music 6
Vocal Technique
Music Theatre Vocal Project
THET30199 Vocal Music 5
Vocal Tutorial
Ensemble (Choral)
Creative Cabaret Projects
Music Technologies
Commercial Performance
THET31473 Dance 6
Vocal Technique
Ballet
Vocal Tutorial
Jazz
Tap
THET33314 Dance 5
Ballet
THET30799 Internship Production 1
Jazz
Auditions
Tap
Rehearsals
Performance
THET31888 Music Theatre Professional Practice 1
Ensemble Lecture
THET34676 Music Theatre Professional Practice 2
Ensemble
Business Practices
Historically Informed Performance Practice (Canadian)
Acting Audition Master Class
Music Theatre Writing
Vocal Audition Master Class
Business Practices
Dance Audition Master Class

BREADTH ELECTIVE
PROGRAM ELECTIVES:

THET31338 Music Theatre Production Artistic Team 1

THET37237 Writing for Music Theatre 1
THET32144 Commercial Artist Development 1

BREADTH ELECTIVE

SEMESTER 7 (FALL) SEMESTER 8 (WINTER)

THET44579 Advanced Techniques 1 THET48616 Advanced Techniques 2
Dance Technique Dance Technique
Guest Artist Master Class Guest Artist Master Class
Vocal Tutorial Vocal Tutorial
Acting Tutorial Acting Tutorial

THET47900 Music Theatre Capstone Project THET40123 Production 3

Auditions and Callbacks (includes recording) Auditions
Rehearsal Rehearsals
Performance Performance
CMTP Festival
PROGRAM ELECTIVES:
THET46367 Music Theatre Professional
Practice 3 THET42561 Music Theatre Production Artistic Team 3
Business Practices THET46091 Writing for Music Theatre 3
Acting Audition THET42875 Commercial Artist Development 3
Vocal Audition
Dance Audition
BREADTH ELECTIVE
Showcase

28
SEMESTER 7 (FALL) SEMESTER 8 (WINTER)
THET46048 Production 2
Auditions
Rehearsals
Performance

PROGRAM ELECTIVES:

THET46928 Music Theatre Production Artistic Team 2

THET47820 Writing for Music Theatre 2
THET43300 Commercial Artist Development 2

BREADTH ELECTIVE

Breadth Courses

Breadth courses are a vital learning experience for students, and elective requirements must be
satisfied in order to graduate. Failure to achieve satisfactory grades in breadth courses can
impact a student’s eligibility in casting for Theatre Sheridan productions.

It is not enough to simply pass a Breadth elective, students must maintain a cumulative Breadth
grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 (60%) or students will be given a Graduation Warning (GW) or
Academic Probation (AP) status.

As part of the Sheridan Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Degree, students must include
Liberal Arts and Science breadth electives as part of their program of study.

Students must complete at least eight breadth elective courses (at least 20% of the total
program hours) drawn from five fields of study:
● Humanities
● Social Science
● Global Culture
● Mathematics
● Science

Requirements of the recently revised breadth policy state that students require courses from at
least 2 of the 5 fields of study listed above. Given that all students must take Composition and
Rhetoric, which is in the Humanities field of study, they must take at least one course in one of
the 4 remaining fields of study. Students must also take at least 2 breadth electives at a level
higher than introductory (i.e. the 2000 or 3000 level). The remaining 4 electives (12 credits)
could be from any level/field of study.

Once the Level and Fields of Study criteria have been satisfied, students can select their
remaining breadth electives from any Level and any Field of Study, provided they satisfy the
necessary prerequisites.

29
Grade Disputes

Students who have concerns about the grade given for a particular course should first discuss
their concerns with the professor of that course, then, if not satisfied, bring their concern to the
Discipline Head of the division that offers the course, who will mediate the dispute and make a
decision concerning the student’s grievance.

If a student does not feel comfortable initiating a first discussion of his or her concerns with the
professor of the course, then the grievance may be brought directly to the Discipline Head.

If a student’s concern with a grade in a course is taught by the Discipline Head, students may
choose to bring that concern directly to the Program Coordinator. Other academic grievances
should be brought to the attention of the Discipline Head of the relevant division or the Program
Coordinator. They will make every effort to mediate a satisfactory resolution of the student’s
concern. Students must retain a program term GPA of 2.4. Grades may affect casting
eligibility.

If a student feels their concern remains unresolved or has not been satisfactorily resolved, they
may then consult the Associate Dean (or designate) informally and be prepared to discuss the
following:
● The evidence they have to support increasing a mark
● The exchange with their faculty including why a resolution could not be reached
● The resolution they are seeking.

Grade Appeals

Academic Appeals And Consideration Policy

A grade appeal is a request that a final grade be reviewed or changed based on evidence
supplied by the student. Students who are not satisfied with a mark they have received on any
coursework that contributes to their final grade are encouraged to speak with their faculty
immediately to seek clarification, and/or resolution (refer to the Student Assessment and
Evaluation Procedure). If a resolution cannot be reached, the student may appeal their final
grade received in the course.

To make an appeal, a student must establish that there are grounds for an appeal. Appeals filed
without grounds or appropriate documentation may be dismissed. There are five grounds that
may be considered when filing an academic appeal. A student who wishes to appeal a grade
should first make sure the reason for their appeal falls within one of the five grounds listed
below:
1. Academic Evaluation
2. Course Management
3. Compassionate
4. Medical
5. Procedural Error

30
It is the student’s responsibility to demonstrate through clear evidence that appropriate grounds
for appeal exist and that their appeal should be considered. A grade appeal may result in the
final grade being increased, decreased or unchanged. Grades that are NOT appealable include
but are not limited to:

1. Marks given for an individual assessment within a course (assignment/quiz/test marks)

2. Grade point average (GPA) requirements for graduation
3. Maximum course attempts
4. Incomplete grades

A formal grade appeal requires students to follow very specific procedures and timelines.
Students should contact Student Services for more information of how to appeal a grade. More
information of the Academic Appeals And Consideration Policy may be found here:
https://caps.sheridancollege.ca/student-guide/academic-policies-and-procedures.aspx

Students Probation, Academic Suspension, and Dismissal

Definitions of Academic Probation, Academic Suspension and Graduation Warning may be

found at this link: https://www.sheridancollege.ca/life-at-sheridan/student-services/student-
advisement/managing-your-academic-standing

1. Students enrolled in the Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance Program are
required to pass all Program Courses with a minimum grade of 50%. All program courses
require a corequisite and prerequisite to progress to the next semester. Students who fail a
course must repeat the course in the following year.

2. First semester students whose cumulative GPA falls below 1.2 will be required to see an
Academic Advisor and may be placed on Academic Probation.

3. Students who are placed on Academic Probation (AP) must maintain a GPA of 2.4 or
higher. If these requirements have been met, the student will be removed from Academic
Probation status. If these requirements have not been met, the student will be placed on
Academic Suspension (AS) and will be required to withdraw from the program for a
minimum of 2 semesters. Students on Academic Probation (AP) will not be cast in lead
or supporting roles.

Students may not appeal a Academic Probation (AP) decision unless they believe that errors
were made in calculating their grade point average.

Students who receive an Academic Suspension (AS) may appeal their suspension to the
Associate Dean. An appeal must be submitted in writing within 10 business days of th student’s
receipt of a letter informing them of suspension, and the Academic Probation and Suspension
Board will then consider the appeal. An appeal will likely be unsuccessful unless a student
can identify compelling extenuating circumstances to explain unsatisfactory progress or
can raise concerns about the fairness of grading. The Academic Probation and Suspension

31
Board is chaired by the Associate Dean and consists of at least three faculty or academic
administrators.

Students on academic suspension are not required to audition for re-admittance. However, they
must demonstrate to the Academic Probation and Suspension Board evidence that they are
now capable of meeting academic responsibilities successfully. Students on academic
suspension who seek re-admittance should contact the Associate Dean.

If, after a thorough review of a student’s academic record, the Academic Probation
and Suspension Board determines that a student’s academic success at Sheridan College is
not feasible, that student will be dismissed. A second suspension in an undergraduate career
results in automatic dismissal. A student who is dismissed may not be granted re-admittance to
the program.

Leave(s) Of Absence

Students without a GW, AP or AS are considered in good standing and may request a leave of
absence. A leave of absence allows a student to return to the program at any registration period
for up to five years from the start of the leave without the necessity of re-applying and re-
auditioning. This leave of absence must be explained to the Program Coordinator and Associate
Dean before approval.

If the student was last enrolled more than four years earlier, then the student may be
required to re-do course work after evaluation by the faculty. The faculty may also grant
course waivers based on a student’s developed skills. Students who re-enroll after an
absence of more than four years, are subject to the curricular requirements in effect at
the time of their re-enrollment.

Working

Students are expected to devote their full-time energies and concentration to their courses of
study and to engage themselves for the duration of the Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre
program. Because of the heavy demands of training during the school year, students are urged
to generate sufficient resources before classes begin to enable them to focus full-time on their
studies once the academic year begins. When students must work, it is recommended that part-
time work does not exceed 10-15 hours per week. Note that scheduling conflicts must be
worked out in advance, to avoid missing important classes and special events.

Outside Performance Opportunities

Students in the early years of the program are encouraged not to audition for professional
performing jobs, as they may not be ready to be judged by industry standards, and first
impressions may adversely affect later job opportunities. If they are considering auditioning,
students should consult with faculty members.

32
Student Representatives

Annually, students elect two members of their class to act as representatives of their year and to
sit on the Student Council. They meet regularly with the Program Coordinator and Associate
Dean. Students from the 2nd, 3rd and 4th year elect their representatives each April while the first
year representatives are elected in September. Only students in Good Academic Standing will
be eligible for this opportunity.

Student Council

The Student Council includes a President, a Vice President and two elected Student
Representatives from each year of the program. The Council’s role is to be the voice of the
student body in terms of issues or concerns that arise and bring those issues forward to the
faculty through the Coordinator and Associate Dean. The Council meets monthly to discuss
issues and also to plan events. They are responsible for running social events such as the
Artistic Collaborative Event (ACE) Nights as well as Common Lunch Hour Events. They also
assist in running the program events such as the intake auditions and the Orientation Ice
Breakers.

Acting Tutorials

All Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance students will receive ten, 45-minute acting
tutorials in semesters 2 to 7 and five, 45-minute acting tutorials in semester 8. Through the
course of the four-year program, students focus on building a solid foundation in acting
fundamentals.

Vocal Tutorials

All Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance students will receive ten, 45-minute vocal
tutorials each in semesters 1 thru 7 and five, 45-minute acting tutorials in semester 8. Through
the course of the four-year program, students focus on building a solid foundation and vocal
technique to allow them to develop a healthy and versatile singing voice capable of performing
in all music theatre styles.

Studio Rules

Three different programs share spaces. Cleaners must be given a clutter-free space in order to
clean.
1. Only water in spill-proof containers allowed. No coffee, tea or other beverages permitted.
2. No food allowed unless the professor gives specific permission, and only in designated
areas.
3. Each class is responsible for stacking chairs and clearing the space after use (unless
another section of the same class takes over the room).
4. Students must also enforce these rules themselves in evening rehearsals.
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5. All props, clothing etc. brought into the studios must also be taken away.
6. If food items are to be used as props, no mess should be left behind.
7. Absolutely no glass or breakable items in the studios.
8. Be very careful with large props i.e. no slamming the doors, no jumping on beds, chairs or
couches.
9. Each class is responsible for sweeping, making sure that all garbage is cleared and
reminding others to stack the chairs.
10. All outdoor shoes should be removed and left at the door.
11. The lost and found box in each room will be brought to security on a monthly basis.

Campus Safety and Security

Sheridan’s Campus Security Officers are available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week to
provide escorts to students and employees. Security staff will walk you directly to all points on
campus, including classrooms, athletic facilities, office/meeting spaces, residences, pubs, and
bus stops. They will also walk you to your car and to a number of points on the edge of
campus, including through the woods at Trafalgar Campus.

The Student Union's Safe Walk Program provides escort for students to parking lots,
residences, campus pathways, and hallways. The program operates Monday – Thursday,
6:00pm - 11:00pm, Friday, 6:00pm - 10:00 pm, and 6:00pm - 2:00am during large campus
events and pub nights. To request a Security OR SafeWalk escort, contact Security at: 905-
815-4044. Inside emergency phones are in yellow boxes, mounted to walls in corridors.
Additionally, all elevators are equipped with an emergency phone or button, located near the
panel. Outside emergency phones are tall, cylinder-shaped blue towers located along pathways
and near parking lots.

Please follow the link below for more information on Campus Security Services:
https://www.sheridancollege.ca/life-at-sheridan/campus-services/security.aspx

Lost and Found

Students who lose items on campus should contact Security at 905-815-4044 or visit the office
located in the B wing. Some students also post messages to independent Facebook groups as
well as hang posters on departmental notice boards for missing personal items.

Social Media

The Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance program values its professional integrity
and brand. As an enrolled student you represent the Sheridan brand and that includes
representation on social media. Students are reminded that information shared on social media
is not private and disclosing personal information is extremely risky. Review privacy and
security settings options regularly. Sheridan members are expected to maintain a high level of
integrity and adhere to college policies and regulations when using social media. This includes

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all policies associated with conduct, harassment, discrimination, copyright and integrity. Federal
and provincial laws apply when using social media.

In order to maintain a safe learning environment, there is no recording (audio, video or pictures)
allowed in the classrooms or tutorial rooms without consent from the student(s) and permission
from the professor(s) regardless if it is posted to social media sites or not. Students should be
respectful of their peers and request consent before posting any media taken inside or outside
of class on any social media sites. As well, while Sheridan Facebook Groups exist to facilitate
communication, it should be understood that faculty will not normally communicate academic
issues with students via this, or any other social media platform.

Observance of Religious Holidays

Sheridan College has established a policy to allow members of the college to observe their
religious holidays without academic penalty. Students who expect to miss classes,
examinations, or other assignments as a consequence of their religious observance are not
excused from these activities, but will be provided a reasonable opportunity to fulfill their
academic obligations without penalty. Students must advise their professors and the Program
Coordinator in advance of the holiday of their absence.

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End of Semester

Assessments

To conclude each academic semester, a two-week period of intensive assessment takes place
to assess academic skills and knowledge, and to allow the students to showcase the practical
skills they have learned throughout the instruction period. This may be a stressful time for some
students, and care should be taken to ensure health and preparedness for the rigourous
demands.

An schedule will be distributed at least two weeks prior to the assessment period. All students
must remain on-campus until all their final assessments are completed as scheduled. Final
assessments will not be rescheduled if a student is absent without just cause.

Some courses may not require an official final assessment during this period, but may require a
meeting period during the assessment schedule in which final concerns are addressed and
topics discussed. Students in these courses are equally obligated to remain on-campus and to
attend any such required course meetings.

Mid-Semester and End Of Term Interviews

Mid-semester in both the Fall and Winter Terms, the Program Coordinator and Heads of
Discipline will communicate in writing then meet individually with students who have been
identified as being academically at risk. At the end of each semester, the Program Coordinator
and Heads of Disciplines will meet with each student in First Year on a sign-up basis to discuss
each student’s academic standing. Individual Second, Third and Fourth Year students may also
be asked to sign up for an interview.

Awards Night

After the final assessments and the Theatre Sheridan season have concluded, an Awards Night
Gala takes place to celebrate the successes of both the Technical Production and Music
Theatre Performance students. Awards are given to congratulate students in the program
disciplines. These awards also consist of cash scholarships that are generously provided by
donors of Theatre Sheridan.

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Graduations Requirements

Degree Completion

In order to graduate from Sheridan, students must have successfully completed all published
course requirements for their program of study in effect at the time of the request to graduate.
Graduation requirements include any changes made to the program while the student was in
progress but do not include any changes made to semesters that the student has already
completed unless the student interrupts their studies for one year or more. Students who
interrupt their full-time studies for one year or more will be required to meet all program
requirements in effect at the time of their return to Sheridan. Sheridan reserves the right to
reassess previously granted credits more than five years old to ensure their relevance at the
time of graduation.

Internships

In order to complete your Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre degree requirements, students
must complete an internship amounting to 420 hours of industry-applied work that pertains to a
career in theatre, including performance and/or administrative tasks. Sheridan will help
students to acquire these internships, but opportunities found by the student are permissible,
provided the Internship Advisor and the Associate Dean have verified them. These workplace
internships should take place during the summer months prior to the onset of the fourth year
and seventh semester in the Sheridan Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance
Program. PLAR exceptions to these hours may be discussed with the Internship Advisor so
students may be granted credit for hours worked previous to the summer before this seventh
semester.

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Scholarship Resource
One of the greatest difficulties in pursuing post-secondary education is the significant cost of the
education itself. There are, however, a wide variety of scholarships and bursaries that you may
be eligible for, either through your home province or from Ontario and Sheridan. While you may
be automatically considered for some scholarships, you will have to apply for others. Your main
concern is meeting early deadlines. Sometimes you’ll be asked to write an essay or to provide
information you will need to request by mail, such as transcripts. Many students miss out on
financial help simply by waiting too long to start their scholarship search. In fact, many
scholarships are not awarded at all because no one applied! Once you’ve located potential
scholarships, read the qualifications very carefully. Only apply for those where you meet all the
necessary criteria. Then take the time to carefully write the essay, or gather the required
information, or fill in the application. Don’t put off applying and never assume you won’t get the
award. Some awards are even renewable as long as you continue studies at a satisfactory
level. We’ve assembled some resources that should aid you in your search for financial
reinforcement.

Financial Aid Office

The Financial Aid and Awards Office is located in room D100, beside the A wing and
Macdonald-Heaslip Hall. Sheridan has a variety of assistance programs that are awarded based
on demonstrated financial need. Any inquiries concerning your financial standing and aid should
be directed to this Office.

Sheridan Aid

Education is an investment in your future. Shortage of funds should not prevent you from
benefiting. We can help you secure the funds you need - every year Sheridan awards over $4
million in bursaries, scholarships and awards that are in addition to government funding.
Sheridan Student Assistance Program provides bursaries, entrance awards and work/study
opportunities to students on the basis of financial need. As most students are eligible, it is highly
encouraged students review these scholarships found at the link below.

There are scholarships, awards and bursaries available for current students enrolled full-time in
their program of study. Full-time students are defined as those who are taking 60% or more of a
full course load. For students with a permanent disability (and registered with Accessible
Learning Services) the definition of full-time is 40% or more of a full course load. Students must
be in an academic term and not on co-op in order to be eligible to apply for these opportunities.
Students in collaborative/joint degree programs are not eligible for Sheridan awards but may
inquire with their collaborative school regarding opportunities.

Use the following link for more information on financial aid and awards:
https://www.sheridancollege.ca/admissions/financial-aid-and-awards/assistance-programs.aspx

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National Resources

These websites serve as a great start to finding scholarships and bursaries. Signing up for
these websites allows you to list various criteria that you satisfy in a wide variety of areas,
effectively tailoring your options to your strengths and needs without having to scour for the
information yourself.

● Scholarships Canada - http://scholarshipscanada.com

● Student Awards - http://www.studentawards.com/
● FinAid - www.finaid.org/otheraid/canadian.phtml
● Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada - www.aucc.ca
● Canadian Scholarships and Grants - http://scholarship-grants.org
● Canadian Higher Education and Career Guide - Theatre Scholarships
http://www.canadian-universities.net/Scholarships/Theatre.html
● Canadian Higher Education and Career Guide - Performing Arts Scholarships
http://www.canadian-universities.net/Scholarships/Performing-Arts-Scholarships.html
● Canada student loans and grants
http://www.esdc.gc.ca/eng/jobs/student/loans_grants/index.shtml

Provincial and Territorial Resources

These provincial databases allow you to refine your search and look for possibilities that might
not be listed on the national sites. Take the time to read through your province’s website to
ensure you are giving yourself the greatest opportunity for financial aid.

● Newfoundland - http://www.nape.nf.ca/education/scholarships/
● PEI - http://employmentjourney.com/bursary-awards-scholarships/
● Nova Scotia - http://www.novascotiascholarships.ca/
● Nova Scotia Talent Trust - http://www.nstalenttrust.ns.ca/default.asp?mn=1.23.66
● Theatre Nova Scotia - http://www.theatrens.ca/programs-services/tns-awards/
● New Brunswick -
http://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/departments/education/k12/content/scholarships.html
● Quebec http://www.quebecscholarships.ca/
● Ontario- OSAP- https://osap.gov.on.ca/OSAPPortal
http://www.ontario.ca/education-and-training/student-loans-grants-scholarships-and-
bursaries
● Manitoba - http://www.manitobascholarships.ca/
○ Rainbow Stage - http://www.rainbowstage.ca/student-scholarships-2/
○ Manitoba Theatre Company - http://www.mtc.mb.ca/EDUCATION-
OUTREACH/Scholarships-and-Apprenticeships.aspx
● Saskatchewan Arts Board - http://www.artsboard.sk.ca/grants/472-uncategorised/2861-
artists
● Saskatchewan - http://ae.gov.sk.ca/scholarships-bursaries-grants
● Alberta - http://www.cbe.ab.ca/students/scholarships.asp

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 ● British Columbia - https://studentaidbc.ca/explore/grants-scholarships
● Theatre BC - http://theatrebc.org/awards-scholarships/
● North-West Territories - http://www.nwtsfa.gov.nt.ca/pdf/scholarships.pdf
● Nunavut - http://qia.ca/programs/scholarships/

Financial Aid from other Provinces:

Newfoundland and Labrador

Through the Department of Education, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador awards
201 scholarships each year to high school students in Newfoundland and Labrador. The
scholarships range in value from $1,000 to $2,500 and are based on the Department of
Education scholarship score. This score is derived from the results of public exams. The
Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Public and Private Employees also offer a variety of
scholarships for 2014 high school graduates specifically. To those students interested in
creative writing, there are essay-based scholarships available
http://www.nape.nf.ca/education/scholarships/

Prince Edward Island

In addition to supporting the activities of the Confederation Centre of the Arts the main purpose
of the Friends is to encourage participation, interest and education in the arts in Prince Edward
Island. The Friends have established the Arts Scholarship Program to help Island students
pursue their passion for the arts and recognize the contributions of the following who have
played a significant role in the development of the arts in Prince Edward Island. The Friends’
Arts Scholarship Award Program is for Prince Edward Island high school graduating students
who will be pursuing full time post secondary studies in applicable arts programs in Canada.
Three non-renewable scholarships of $750 will be offered each year.
http://www.confederationcentre.com/en/scholarship.php

Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia has a few great scholarship and bursary opportunities. The Nova Scotia Talent
Trust funds a variety of awards for students, as does Theatre Nova Scotia. Take a moment to
look at the websites and see if you qualify for any awards listed.
http://www.nstalenttrust.ns.ca

New Brunswick
New Brunswick offers a wide range of government funded scholarships. The government offers
a full pdf version of the scholarships at this website:
http://www.gnb.ca/0000/publications/ss/scholarshipinfo.pdf. The New Brunswick Arts Board has
a scholarship program offered and eligible for all universities.

Quebec
Quebec has an interesting policy regarding students who choose to study out-of-province. The
province’s desire to keep their citizens within Quebec to study often impacts the monetary
amount of the student loans given, leaving our students in need of other resources to

40
supplement their finances. Fortunately, Sheridan generally provides a greater needs-based
bursary to Quebec students to offset the cost. Be sure to apply to Sheridan for Sheridan
bursaries and scholarships you might apply for.

Saskatchewan
While Saskatchewan’s scholarships tend to benefit those who stay in Saskatchewan to pursue
the arts, there are scholarships provided by the Saskatchewan Arts Board that provide
substantial support to students studying out-of-province. There are also a variety of
scholarships funding students from particular regions or small towns in the province, so
investigating your community’s awards is beneficial.
http://www.artsboard.sk.ca/grants

British Columbia
British Columbia has a few scholarship opportunities available to British Columbia residents.
The BC Arts Council does a scholarship every year for students pursuing post-secondary
education in the field of Arts. It is open to any British Columbian resident, who is pursuing Arts,
whether it is in BC or outside the province. You must fill out an application for the scholarships
and then provide them with a list of current repertoire, 2 artistic appraisals, your letter of
acceptance, final grades, and calendar or syllabus from the future school you wish to attend.
More information can be found at www.bcartscouncil.ca.

Nunavut
Scholarships The Department of Education just came out with this updated information on
scholarships earlier this year. The information has been made available to help Nunavut
students in finding scholarships, grants, and bursaries. Also, a major focus has been put on
finding Inuit specific scholarships. The information on this page outlines Nunavut student grants
and loans as well as websites for individualized scholarship searches. The scholarships listed
here are only a few examples of scholarships available to Nunavut students; it is important to do
a specific search to find scholarships geared toward each individual and his/her talents,
ethnicity, school of choice, and any other characteristics that make each person unique.
http://www.nape.nf.ca/education/scholarships/.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM

I acknowledge I received a copy of the Student Handbook and General Guidelines. I

acknowledge I am expected to know and be familiar with the contents and that I have read and
understand policies outlined in the manual.

I further understand:

● That I have read and understand policies outlined in the manual;

● That I agree to follow the rules, regulations and policies stated within this manual;

● That this manual will be updated from time to time and that I will be responsible for
reading the updates;

● That revised information may supersede, modify or eliminate existing policies and only
the Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance Program of Sheridan College may
make changes to the policies of this handbook;

● That this manual is the property of Sheridan College and is not to be distributed in any
form.

Student’s Name (print):

Student’s Signature:

Date:

Please submit this signed form to Dr. Marc Richard

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Sources

The authors of this Handbook gratefully acknowledge our reliance on the work of colleagues at
Ryerson University, The Boston Conservatory, The Western Australian Academy of Performing
Arts, Carnegie Mellon, Randolph Academy, University of Cincinnati, Dalhousie University, York
University and Rose Bruford College in giving expression to these principles and concerns. Our
decision to borrow so liberally from the handbooks of these other institutions is itself a testimony
to the great importance attached to questions of intellectual integrity and honesty in all higher
education communities.

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