AS/A2 Drama

AS / A2 Drama

WHY TAKE DRAMA?
This course is for experienced and talented dramatists, who are
interested in all aspects of theatre, including acting, directing and
devising your own work. It is designed for those who wish to develop their knowledge and understanding of different styles of theatre.

WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF STUDY?
You will study four different play texts in the AS course, two of which will be performed to an audience. You will also write evaluations of theatre visits throughout the year. In A2 you will devise your own piece of theatre based on a stimulus. You will also explore how theatre has changed since the 16th century and you will study and practically explore a final text in preparation for the written exam.

WHAT SKILLS WILL I NEED AND DEVELOP?
This course requires extremely high levels of commitment and focus as a large proportion of the course is based on group work, although you are marked individually. You must also have experience of performing and of evaluating live theatre. During the AS course, you will develop your acting and performance skills, studying different practitioners and styles of theatre. You will also develop your ability to analyse and interpret texts. In the A2 course you will further develop your devising skills and explore texts and the history of theatre.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
In the AS course, in the first unit you will practically study two different play texts using different practitioners and write up your experiences in your 3000 word coursework. You will also submit a 1000 word theatre evaluation on a play that you have seen. The second unit is performance based with you participating in a group performance of a chosen play and either a monologue or a duologue. In the A2 course, the first unit is a devising exam. You will be marked on your rehearsal process as well as the performance. You will also submit supporting written evidence that discusses the process you have been through. The second unit is the written exam which covers a set text and questions on
how theatre has developed throughout history.

PRIESTLEY EXTRA
You will take part in public performances of your exam work and you will be expected to attend theatre visits. You will also have the opportunity to participate in workshops and go on residential trips.