Performance Studies A Level

Performance Studies

What is this course about?
This is a unique course that looks at the three art forms of dance, drama and music, at the way in which these work when they are brought together, and at the potential this creates for your own practical work. You will take part in a number of practical performances and study the way in which pieces and performances are put together.

In terms 2 and 3 of the AS you specialise in Drama and Dance or Drama and Music.

What topics will I study?

At AS :

• Creating Performance: You study all three art forms through skills-based workshops and a mix of short performance pieces in each of the performance areas plus one longer community piece that combines all three.

• Performance Contexts 1 : You study one piece of work from two practitioners from two of the three arts forms. This covers a range of analytical aspects, including structure and form, how elements of the performing arts are linked within the practitioners' styles, the techniques adopted, their stylistic influences and the cultural, historical and contextual influences at play

At A2:

• Performance Contexts 2 : Takes Performance Context 1 a stage further and is developed and expanded by addressing broader contextual issues and focusing on general trends in performing arts rather than individual works.

• Performance Projects : Two performances and their preparation; one being a realisation of one of the works studied previously on the course and a separate student-devised piece in response to prompts from the awarding body.

How will my work be assessed?

At AS:

• Creating Performance: Assessment is based on both the written commentary on the practical work (not including the skills-based workshops) and the performance of the community piece
• Performance Context 1 is assessed through a two-hour written paper.

At A2

• Performance Contexts 2 is assessed through a two-hour written examination.
• The Performance Projects are assessed as a practical assessment by a visiting examiner.

Frequently asked questions

What are the lessons like?
A range of teaching and learning styles is used during the course. There are lots of references to, and exploration of, practitioners' works and learning is primarily delivered through practical investigation and workshop activities. You will have the opportunity to visit local and national theatres and gain the opportunity to work with practising professionals.

What skills do I need to have?
You must be willing to commit to group work and have the desire to grow as a performer and be prepared to perform in public. Due to group based work and individual study elements within the course, you must be capable of unsupervised work and display a high level of maturity.

What have I got to do to do well?
You need to be capable of working in a team and above all have an appreciation of the performing arts. You must respond well to feedback and encouragement to develop your performance skills and be willing to explore your skills within the context of the syllabus.

What students say about this course
" A fun and exciting course"

"allows you to not only develop your own performance skills, but to do so while developing a deeper understanding of the style and techniques of practitioners"

"all with the support of really friendly, approachable staff."

What do people do with A level Performance Studies?

• Performance Studies is recognised as an academic subject and therefore provides a suitable foundation for the study of related courses in higher education.
• Performance Studies develops personal and presentation skills in a unique way which makes it an excellent subject to combine with a whole range of A levels and a supportive contrast to more traditional subjects.

Will there be any significant costs related to this subject apart from normal stationery?
No.