The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) is renowned for our world-leading, university-level training in performing and creative arts. Your time at LIPA is about forging a career and getting paid to do what you love. It's about having the time of your life in one of the world's most creative and dynamic cities. It's about making performance happen.
LIPA was founded by Sir Paul McCartney and Mark Featherstone-Witty in 1996. We are located in the buildings of the old Liverpool Institute for Boys - where Paul and fellow Beatle George Harrison studied - and the Liverpool College of Art - which John Lennon attended. Paul remains our Lead Patron and continues to support us, mentoring selected songwritng students, joining in with student Q&A's and attending all our graduation ceremonies to date. In his words, we are "one of the best performing arts schools in the world".
LIPA is home to 1,050 students, over 20% of which come from outside the UK and represent over 40 nationalities worldwide. You'll feel a sense of community as soon as you arrive. LIPA is small enough to be united, but our big ambition makes us mighty. And everyone here shares a passion for collaboration, innovation, and the creative industries.
Our buildings are home to over 80 dedicated performance and technical spaces, many featuring industry-leading hardware and software. Each year we stage over 50 performances from dance shows to musicals, from contemporary dramas to music and film festivals. Our staff:student ratio is 1:10. Our staff are practising and experiencced professionals whilev industry leaders take part in regular masterclasses and Q&A's. You'll collaborate with some of the UK's leading writers, directors, designers, producers and choreographers on productions and projects - and towards the end of your time at LIPA they'll help you prepare for your career.
