Lessons are run as practical, skills building classes, like those delivered at professional performing arts schools with regular class performance projects. The course is designed and run with a broad but detailed focus on the academic and practical knowledge of Drama, introducing new, higher level thinking concepts whilst furthering and challenging existing knowledge in a more sophisticated way. We also analyse and appreciate plays from a variety of periods and styles, exploring theatre from the perspective of an actor, director, a designer and a member of the audience. You are encouraged to make connections with your wider learning as your study involves a deeper investigation into the plays’ context and playwrights, from economic policies to political movements. You are assessed through practical exams, written/oral coursework and a written exam. You prepare a text interpretation in the style of a practitioner, a devised piece and a performance of a published play text. You can choose your discipline (design or acting) for your practical performance. Alongside this you prepare a creative log (written or video blog) justifying your choices and evaluating your work. At the end of the course, you sit a written exam in which you analyse and prepare production concepts for three texts from a range of time periods and styles. Highlights Visits to professional theatres to see live performances. Support in exploring your chosen discipline (lighting/costume design or acting). Access to fantastic equipment e.g. fully rigged lighting system and lighting board, sound equipment or costume wardrobe.