Drama and Theatre Studies

A level

It’s so fun to do, all of the work is enjoyable, even the theory! Working with an amazing group of other people feels so good, because everybody wants to be there and contribute in lessons. The practitioners are cool to study as they all look at totally different unique things. If you’re considering stepping up to A-level I 100% recommend it! It’s just so enjoyable and half the time it doesn’t feel like work, it’s just fun! Caitlyn Y12

What Will I Study?

Component 1: Theatre Workshop (either acting or design) – Students participate in the creation, development and performance of a piece of theatre based on a reinterpretation of an extract from a text chosen from a list supplied by the exam board. The piece is developed using techniques from either an influential theatre practitioner or a recognised theatre company. They will produce a creative log to accompany their performance.

Component 2: Text in Action (either acting or design) – Students participate in the creation, development and performance of two pieces of theatre based on a stimulus provided by the exam board. One will be a devised piece of theatre, using either an influential practitioner or theatre company and the other is an extract from a text in a different style. Students produce a process and evaluation report following their performance to an external examiner.

Component 3: Text in Performance (written exam) – Students will study two different texts from different time periods: one pre 1956 and one post 1956. Students will then answer two questions about the two plays under timed examination conditions. Students will also study the play Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time and will answer a question based on a chosen extract from that play under timed examination conditions.

Entry Requirements

Students require GCSE English Grade 5, GCSE Drama 5 (not essential).

Assessment

Assessed workshops, performance, written coursework and written examination.

Where Next?

This is an academic course recognised by universities of good standing. For those taking English, it gives a more practical and hands on approach to Drama as well as academic rigour. For those interested in careers in the Arts, whether backstage, lighting, sound, acting or directing it gives you knowledge of drama and theatre. This course does allow performers to enhance their acting skills but students still need a good academic background.

Please note

Students who have not taken GCSE Drama will be considered. Students must have an interest in theatre and plays as well as performing and would benefit from being involved with the annual school production.