Introduction
Drama and Theatre Studies can be studied at two levels. You can achieve the AS (Advanced Subsidiary) qualification after one year of study and if you wish to achieve the full A level award you can do so by taking A2 in the Upper Sixth (i.e. AS + A2 = full A level award).
Why choose Drama and Theatre Studies?
This subject is a stimulating mixture of practical Drama and the academic study of the whole process which transforms a playscript into a theatrical experience. It also gives you a unique opportunity to develop your self-awareness and your communication skills, while discovering the ways in which actors learn their craft and how a piece of theatre is created.
What do the courses involve?
The aim of both courses is to provide you with an overall perspective of the work of actor, director, practitioner and playwright. You gain this through a blend of written and practical work.
What are the entry requirements?
The most important requirements are an interest in Theatre and the kind of enthusiasm which will sustain you through the necessary out of hours rehearsals in the run up to the practical examinations. You should be keen to attend the evening theatre visits (roughly once a month) and to get involved in extra-curricular Drama in order to put into practice what you are learning in class. As there are essays to be written, the standard of your written English should be good. Students with GCSE Drama are particularly welcome on the course.
AS YEAR
In this year, you will study three units of work;
DRA 1 gives you the opportunity to devise an original piece of Drama within a small group. You are responsible for every aspect of this, including a personal portfolio outlining the creative process. It will be assessed in the Spring Term by your tutor.
DRA2 involves the study of TWO set texts from different eras of theatre development. There is a one and a half hour written paper in June.
DRA3 involves the work of a theatre practitioner and the development of your reviewing skills. You will be required to attend evening productions on a regular basis to assist in this. There is a one and a half hour written paper in June.
A2 / A LEVEL YEAR
In this year, you will study a further three modules, which build on the skills and knowledge you have gained in your AS year:
DRA4 assesses a group performance of a piece of scripted Drama. This will be assessed in the Spring Term by your tutor.
DRA5 assesses a further TWO set texts. You will take an hour and a half hour written paper on these in June of your Upper Sixth.
DRA6 concentrates on the work of a second theatre practitioner, and the analysis of unseen extracts from plays. You will be expected to demonstrate a working knowledge of theatre history and dramatic genres and to respond to your own practical experience in your answers. You will take a two and a half hour written examination in June.
How are the units assessed?
Each AS unit is worth a percentage of the full A-Level mark, which can be carried forward into your second year. All practical work is marked by your tutor and moderated by an external examiner during presentation evenings which are open to an invited audience. All written papers are marked by the board.
