5 GCSE passes at Grade 5 or above (GCSE Drama is an advantage, but not essential.)
You can:
Apply to enrol on the Drama and Theatre A Level course. The specification places a strong emphasis on practical drama with supporting written responses in the form of controlled essays and theory examinations. Both devised performance and text in performance are major elements of the assessment process as well as a practical exploration of the cultural and historical context of Drama.
This will mean:
A course which demands practical, creative and communication skills in almost equal measure. You will extend your ability to create drama and theatre, either in a performing or production role. You will also be required to write about drama and to develop your powers of analysis to become an informed critic. The course will involve taking part in drama productions, as well as studying plays and playwrights.
This course will appeal to any student who:
Is curious about issues and ideas and has a creative instinct for communicating your views through drama. You must be keen on acting and devising, wish to develop your skills in some or all of these areas, you must be punctual and have excellent attendance both in lessons and rehearsals out of school hours.
It is useful to have taken Drama at GCSE level but not essential. It is important that you are interested in gaining a greater understanding of how theatre and plays work, and that you are keen to be involved with performances. It is essential that you are able to visit the theatre at least three times during the A level course.
You will:
Study 3 Components at A Level
Course Components are:
Component 1: Theatre Workshop
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Study one play and perform an extract to an audience
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Write a creative log
Component 2: Text in Action
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Devise one piece of theatre based on stimulus from the board
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Perform an extract from a text that is of a differing style than the devised piece
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Write an evaluation report immediately following the performances to a visiting examiner
Component 3: Text in Performance
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Written examination (2 hours 30 minutes) answer on 2 complete performance texts and an extract of a third
With this subject you could:
Go on to further study in Drama, Theatre Studies and Performing Arts in Higher Education at degree or diploma level. It can be used as part of your course to broaden your studies and may lead on to a career in the performing arts industries. It is an excellent partner with Art, History, Music, Media, Law, Linguistics, Philosophy & Ethics, English Literature and English Language at both A and degree level.
For more information contact:
Mrs L Skinner [email protected] (Head of Drama)