The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA)

Brief overview

The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) is internationally renowned for our high calibre university-level training in performing and creative arts. Co-Founded by Sir Paul McCartney – who remains our Lead Patron – we are home to 1,200 students, over 20% of which come from outside of the UK.

We are located in Liverpool, England’s only UNESCO World City of Music and the most filmed city in the UK outside of London.

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What do we do?

Collaboration is at the heart of LIPA’s ethos. You’ll work with the next generation of creatives on major projects and productions and immersing yourself in course content we’ve developed alongside professionals in the creative industries.

92% of our graduates are in work or further study. Projects begin and end. Productions come and go. So we train you to be versatile and agile and ready for a varied and successful portfolio career.

What makes us special?

Founded in 1996, we’re now a celebrated centre of excellence for vocational training in the performing and creative arts. Two of our historic Grade II (landmark) buildings have a rich educational legacy, including being the school or college attended by three of The Beatles.

Liverpool isn’t just a city where drama, art, music, poetry, filmmaking and digital design happen; Liverpool is why it happens. It is also home to more museums, galleries and listed buildings than any other city in the UK outside London.

What course opportunities do we offer?

We teach Acting; Acting Musicianship; Events Management; Dance; Filmmaking; Music; Music Management; Musical Theatre; Performance Design; Production Technology and Sound Technology.

We are currently open for 2026 entry applications and there is no application fee. We host auditions and interviews worldwide.