This is a fascinating course which will develop your skills in drama and theatre. You will learn about the social, cultural and historical contexts of theatre, work on plays from the viewpoint of an actor, director and designer, perform in scripted and devised drama, and learn the arts of theatre review and of theatre research. You will acquire many practical theatre skills such as rehearsal techniques, ensemble work, physical theatre and technical aspects. The course consists of written as well as practical components, so your essay skills and analytical skills will also be developed. Visits to live theatre productions and workshops are an integral part of the course and you will need to make financial provision for these. Students and staff work together as a close, cooperative and disciplined team. The course can lead to a vocational or university course in Drama, or a university course in English/Drama. However, the AS/A qualification is complementary to study in other arts subjects or as a contrasting discipline with study in other areas.
AS Unit 1: Exploration of Drama and Theatre
Internal assessment: practical drama activities
with supporting
Exploration Notes; evaluation
of live theatre
Unit 2: Theatre Text in Performance
External assessment:
•monologue/duologue performance or design
realisation
• group performance or design realisation
A2 Unit 3: Exploration of Dramatic Performance
Internal assessment: creation and performance
or design of
original piece of drama.
Unit 4: Theatre Text in Context
External assessment: 2½ hour written
examination on a set text
and historical performance conditions
You will need grade B or above in English and grade B or above in GCSE Drama. If you have not taken GCSE Drama you may be asked to demonstrate your ability in this subject.