Drama and Theatre Studies A Level

Studying Drama and Theatre Studies at A level allows pupils to develop themselves into competent theatrical artists and practitioners with an appreciation of theatre as a masterful art form that is integral to society and civilisation. Not only are pupils’ artistic, creative and technical skills developed, but they also gain key life skills such as confidence in presenting, the ability to communicate clearly and effectively, and proficiency in problem solving and teamwork.

Drama allows pupils to become empathetic, emotionally intelligent and culturally accomplished, with an awareness of the world around them. They learn to understand and appreciate different cultural and societal contexts, which helps them become global citizens.

The syllabus aims to encourage candidates to:

Develop their interest and enjoyment in Drama and Theatre both as participants, and as informed members of the audience
Develop an understanding and appreciation of the significance of social, cultural and historical influences on the development of Drama and Theatre throughout history
Experience a range of opportunities to develop a variety of practical skills, through workshops and live theatre visits whilst
Integrate theory and practice through their understanding of critical concepts and the use of specialist terminology

Course Content

We followed the Edexcel Drama and Theatre specification.

Component 1: Devising (40% - 80 marks)

Pupils devise an original performance inspired by an extract from a play, created in the style of a recognised theatre practitioner or company. They also produce a portfolio that analyses and evaluates both the process and the final performance. Pupils may submit as either a performer or a designer for this component.

Component 2: Text in Performance (20% - 60 marks)

Pupils perform two extracts from different plays. One extract will be a group performance, and the other will be either a monologue or duologue. Pupils may also submit as a designer for this component rather than as a performer. The performance is assessed in front of a visiting examiner.

Component 3: Theatre Makers in Practice (40% - 80 marks)

Pupils sit a 2 hour 30 minute paper comprising three sections.

Section A: Live Theatre Evaluation
Pupils write a review evaluating the success of a live production they have watched against a thought-provoking statement about the nature of theatre in 21st-century society.

Section B: Realising a Performance Text
Pupils study a full, professionally commissioned and published play. At Royal Russell, they study ‘That Face’ by Polly Stenham. Pupils write two extended essays in this section: one answering a question about performing a role, and the other about designing a production of the play.

Section C: Interpreting a Performance Text
Pupils study a pre-1945 play and create a directorial concept, reimagining it for a contemporary audience. The play is ‘Antigone’ by Greek playwright Sophocles. Pupils must explain and justify how they will reimagine the play for a contemporary audience, using the methodologies of a recognised theatre practitioner.

Looking Further Ahead

Whichever path a pupil chooses to follow, an employer or university will recognise the importance of A level Drama because of the transferable skills it offers. Pupils develop the confidence to speak and present in front of others and work effectively and creatively in a team as well as having a broad social, cultural and historical knowledge base.

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