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Theatre Studies
Theatre Studies AQA 7262 Mr Damian Todres
Why should I study Theatre Studies?
Theatre Studies is an exciting subject which develops several essential skills alongside furthering knowledge in the dramatic and performance arts. The study and practical exploration of play texts and their social and historical contexts enables a deep understanding of theatre genre and periods. This in turn offers an excellent support to those pursuing English Literature and History. You will also engage in a variety of contrasting theatre styles and develop your skills as a performer. These aspects of the subject develop communication skills and confidence in presentation which is not just aimed at helping those intending to follow a dramatic career, but is also a vital life skill. It will also complement a range of other subjects that have textual analysis as their focus.
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking Theatre Studies?
You need to have achieved at least a B grade in GCSE English Literature and preferably completed a course in GCSE Drama, though the latter is not absolutely essential. You should have an enthusiasm for drama and have some meaningful experience in the subject. Due to the high level of practical and written communication required, a fluency in English is desired.
What will I learn?
The course demands practical, creative and communication skills in almost equal measure. You will extend your ability to create drama and theatre, either in a performing or production role. You will also be required to write about plays and to develop your powers of analysis to become an informed critic when evaluating live theatre. The course will involve taking part in drama productions, as well as studying plays, genres, theatre practitioners and styles.
Who is this course suitable for?
This is both a practical and academic course and you should feel confident in both performance and analysis. You should have passion for the subject and a desire to be creative and interpretative with text. You should be interested in going to the theatre to see plays performed on a regular basis and be able to critically discuss what you have seen.
How is the course assessed?
Component 1: Drama and theatre
Knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre. Study of two set plays. Evaluation of live theatre productions. How it’s assessed: Written exam: 3 questions 80 marks in total 40% of A level
Component 2: Creating original drama (practical)
Process and performance of devised drama (pupils may contribute as performer, designer or director). Devised piece must be influenced by the work and ideas of one prescribed practitioner.
How it’s assessed
Working notebook (40 marks) Devised performance (20 marks) 60 marks in total 30% of A level
Component 3: Making theatre (practical)
Practical exploration and interpretation of three play extracts. Reflective report on the process.
How it’s assessed
Performance of one extract (40 marks) Reflective report (20 marks) 60 marks in total 30% of A level
What could I go on and do at the end of my course?
This qualification could lead to further study in Drama, Theatre Studies and Performing Arts in Higher Education at degree or HND level. It can be used as part of your courses to broaden your studies and may lead on to a career in the performing and creative arts industries. Many businesses and institutions (including the military, politics and law) are synergistic with the human skills which the performing arts develop.
Additional Costs
Within this subject Theatre Trips form an essential part of the course. Parents should be aware that there is an extra charge for this which is typically around £90 per year.
