Drama and Theatre Studies

Course summary

Plays and performances have long been part of human culture. The theatre is a unique space in which the world, society and the human condition can be explored. It is a public place where the voices of ordinary people can be heard raising questions about the forces that shape our lives. It is furthermore an exciting place. The playwright invites the audience to observe the action whilst asking for their intellectual participation. In the Theatre Studies A level you will take a close and critical look at the playwright’s art. You will consider how different styles and social contexts can shape the interpretation of a script, influence a rehearsal and achieve a successful performance. You will learn how to look at a play from different angles: as a spectator, as an actor and as a director. The course will enable you to develop a deep appreciation of what is involved in a successful piece of theatre. In the first year, you will begin with the study of Lorca’s Yerma and Sophocles Antigone. This will involve both theoretical and practical exploration. You will also attend a variety of live productions which will be discussed and explored in terms of theatrical merits and style. If you opt to sit the AS level exam you will sit a written paper on both the studied text and one of the live productions seen during the course. You must also prepare a portfolio of work to accompany a practical examination of an extract of a play. In the second year, you will deepen your study of both Yerma and Antigone. You will be encouraged to continue attending as many theatre excursions as possible which could be used to answer Section C of the written paper. You will complete a 3-hour written exam answering questions on both studied texts and live production of your choice. You will perform both devised and scripted pieces of practical work which will be assessed as part of the A-level course. To accompany the practical work you must collate a working notebook and a reflective report which will act as the coursework portion of the course.