A Level Drama and Theatre Studies

Course summary

Drama and Theatre Studies has an important role to play in the personal development of our students. The course develops a wide variety of skills including: creativity, leadership, team work and risk-taking. Drama and Theatre Studies aims to stimulate the imagination and allows students to explore topical issues and experiences in a safe, supportive environment. The nature of this course provides opportunities for pupils to develop key skills of communication, negotiation, compromise and self-assertion. Pupils develop confidence when speaking and their vocabulary is extended when they adopt roles and characters. Pupils also acquire a critical and subject specific vocabulary through reflecting on and appraising their own work and the work of others. This particular course is designed to promote a balance between practical theatre making and the theoretical understanding of drama and theatre. Learners are encouraged to make connections between dramatic theory and their own practice. In addition to their own theatre making, learners also develop an understanding of the role of the director and designer. We also encourage students to participate in live theatre as an audience member. The course explores the work of a variety of practitioners and theatre companies. Students will explore a selection of work from: Brecht, Stanislavski, Frantic Assembly, Littlewood, Artaud and Berkoff. They are encouraged to create a devised performance with a focus on reinterpretation. Students also devise from an initial stimulus and apply their theoretical knowledge to explore a professionally commissioned play. We encourage and organise theatre visits to support students in their studies. Career Pathways – Performer – Stage Manager – Costume Designer – Lighting/Sound Design – Set Designer