A Level Drama and Theatre Studies

Contact: Mr N Cooper
Why study A Level Drama and Theatre Studies?

Drama and Theatre Studies is a practical, intellectual and artistic subject. You will be expected to explore the structural elements of theatre from the page to the stage. In order to be successful and enjoy this subject, you will need to have a keen interest in the history of drama and study of practitioners, theatrical forms and conventions that make theatre such a compelling and exciting subject. You must be able to analyse and critically deconstruct the work you study, create and witness. Current drama students have stated that they find A Level Drama challenging with an excellent mix of both practical and theory work. Students find the practical work that they take part in both years highly rewarding.

What skills will I gain from a creative A Level in Drama and Theatre Studies?

Lessons are a healthy combination of practical learning supported by the necessary academic theory needed to understand the work being studied. Learning takes place through the following: participation in the creation, development and performance of a piece of theatre based on a reinterpretation of an extract from a text. The development of techniques and working methods of influential theatre practitioners and recognised theatre companies. The study and presentation of a variety of plays through participation in improvisation, devised work and class discussion. These methods increase understanding of the subject and provide more detail and substance to your work.

Where can the subject lead?

The course can lead you to studying drama at university, drama school or a Performing Arts course at the end of your A Level. Many students go on to study Drama and Theatre

Studies/Performing Arts at a higher level and progress to working in theatre, television, film and video. It has also proved invaluable in the journalistic, teaching and legal professions.

When students study Drama and Theatre Studies at A Level it invests them with invaluable skills in articulating thoughts, exploring ideas, sharpening communication skills and providing the ability to work within a group situation both in a practical and academic setting.

What other subjects complement an A Level in Drama and Theatre Studies?

Theatre Studies is a popular subject as it complements many others, particularly the Arts and Humanities. However, we have found that a creative, yet still academic subject like Theatre Studies can work in combination with a variety of subjects; some other popular subjects also taken by previous students include Chemistry, English Language, Film Studies, History, Law, Maths, Media Studies, Psychology and Sociology. Even if you are not planning on studying Theatre Studies beyond A Level, it not only broadens knowledge of, and deepens an interest in, theatre but can also increase confidence, communication skills and encourage analytical discussion. Experience or knowledge is not an essential entry requirement, but being creative and having an ability to use your imagination is.