Performance Studies

Performance Studies

GCE Advanced Level AS/A2

Course Content

AS Modules

Creating Performance (70% of AS)

Students work on three short devised group practical projects in drama, music and dance.
This work is assessed by written coursework.

They then work on an assessed practical performance project combining art forms which is performed in the community.

Performance Contexts 1 (30% of AS)

Students prepare for a two hour written exam studying the work of
- John Godber (drama) and The Beatles (music) and Lloyd Newson (dance).

A2 Modules

Performance Contexts 2 (30% of A Level)

Students prepare for a two hour written exam studying the works of
- Dario Fo and Peter Hall / Bertolt Brecht (drama) Bob Dylan and Bob Marley / Bruce Springsteen (music) Pina Bausch and Kurt Jooss / Christopher Bruce (dance)
as part of a topic study.

Performance Project (70% of A Level)

Students prepare for two performance projects
- A performance of a work by the practitioners studied for the written exam.
- A devised project inspired by a commission set by the exam board: a poem/picture/myth/historical character.

How it is Taught
This is a practical based subject in which students work closely on group projects. Students are expected to have some experience and skills in drama, dance or music as they will be assessed in two of these disciplines.
There is also in-depth classroom based study of practitioners in preparation for the written examinations.

Examination Details Unit 1 : Written coursework
Practical performance : February

Unit 2 : Exam: One question answered on each of two disciplines
chosen from music, drama and dance : 2 hours

Unit 3 : Exam: One question combining knowledge of Dance, Drama and Music : 2 hours

Unit 4 : Two practical performances : May

Useful/Common Subject Combinations
The course would combine well with Dance, Music, Music Technology and Theatre Studies, depending on your experience.

Careers and HE Information
Useful if considering a career in performance/theatre/music.

Students applying to study drama at university could take both Theatre and Performance Studies.

Useful if considering a career with demanding communication/group skills.

Other Relevant Information
The course naturally involves performing and working closely with others.
Shy, quiet students do succeed but only if they overcome any inhibitions.

There is some introduction to music technology and recording technique.
ILT skills are often incorporated into drama projects: PowerPoint projections etc.

Given the emphasis is on practical performance in this course, lots of time is needed for rehearsals - beware of combining it with too many other practical subjects.

Students can arrange informal guitar/bass/piano/drum tuition with the course leader.