AS/A2 Drama and Theatre Studies

AS/A2 Drama and Theatre Studies
AS/A2 This course will enable you to interpret plays from different periods and genres as well as applying performance and / or production skills through a scripted and devised practical examination. You will be expected to explore practical and theoretical aspects of drama and to make critical and evaluative judgements of live theatre.

AS Course Content
1. Introduction to live theatre

You will be taken to the theatre and asked to write an answer to a question basd on the show you saw, under exam conditions. You will prepare for this part of the exam by seeing and writing about live theatre.
You will also study a set text and answer a written question under exam conditions from the perspective of a director, actor or designer. You will prepare for this part of the exam by undertaking practical explorations of the text.
Assessment: examination (60%)
2. Presentation of an extract from a play
You will choose either to direct, design or act an extract from a published play in consultation with your teacher. You will have to prepare for the exam by producing supporting notes and learning lines. This exam will be assessed by public performance.
Assessment: assessed performance work (40%)

A2 Course Content
3. Further set plays

You will study a set text (pre-20th century). You will explore different creative approahces to the text and will then write your own creative overview under exam conditions.
Assessment: examination (60%)
4. Presentation of devised dramaYou will choose either to direct, design or act as part of a group. You will create your own devised piece of theatre from scratch, which will be performed to a public audience. You will have to prepare for the exam by producing supporting notes and learning lines, as well as ensuring all aspects of production are met.
Assessment: this is through a written paper and assessed performance work (40%).
Is Drama and Theatre Studies for me?
You will enjoy and benefit from Drama if you:

• want to pursue your interests and develop skills in a range of practical drama elements including acting, directing and theatre design;
• want to develop your critical awareness of theatre productions you have seen and your ability to analyse and realise text

Drama and Theatre Studies and your future
Drama and Theatre Studies can lead to further studies at Drama School or university or a theatre-related career. The subject works well with Performance Studies, Media Studies, English and Art.

Visits and visitors
You will attend a number of theatre productions by professional theatre companies and will also benefit from a range of visiting workshops.