Drama & Theatre Studies- AS/A2 AQA
Why choose Drama & Theatre Studies?
Drama and Theatre Studies allows you to combine work towards practical performances with the study of various aspects of the theatre. The course will give you the opportunity to explore the translation of plays from page to stage, to discover the success of live theatre productions and to find out about the work of influential practitioners.
What can I expect to learn?
At AS you will gain knowledge and understanding of theatre practice both as a participant and as a member of the audience. The knowledge gained will be applied to the study of a prescribed play. You will also develop your performance and/or production skills producing a scripted performance. At A2 you will study a pre-twentieth century play and a twentieth century play or contemporary drama. You will also devise and perform a drama in a theatrical style of your choice.
How will I learn?
You will learn through a combination of practical based work and theory.
How will I be assessed?
At AS you will complete a 1 hour and 30 minute examination on live theatre productions seen and a prescribed play studied (60% AS, 30% of A Level). You will also produce a practical presentation of an extract from a play (40% of AS, 20% of A Level).
At A2 you will complete a 2 hour written examination on two further prescribed plays including a pre-twentieth century text (30% of a Level). You will also create a practical presentation of devised drama (20% of A Level).
What subjects combine well with Drama & Theatre Studies?
English, media studies, dance, art, music, modern languages, sociology and psychology all make a good combination with drama and theatre studies.
Where does this lead? What can I do next?
Students have used the subject to gain entry on to university courses in drama, English, media and journalism. Careers in drama, theatre or performance media are a logical progression.
What background or achievements do I need?
A Grade B in English is desirable however, there are no specific entry requirements for the course but an interest in drama and theatre together with a willingness to participate in practical activities is essential. Where Drama has been studied at GCSE a minimum of a grade C will be required.
"The stage is not merely the meeting place of all the arts, but is also the return of art to life."
Oscar Wilde
