Drama & Theatre Studies

Specialists - AQA A level

Requirements

This is a demanding and interesting subject in which pupils will gain a knowledge and understanding of theatre practice through rigorous academic study, practical participation and as discerning members of an audience. It is not necessary to have taken GCSE Drama before but, clearly, any previous theatrical experience is going to be of value to the prospective candidates. The key to success is to be equally willing to participate in and understand both the practical and theoretical sides of the course.

Outline of the course
  • Unit 1: Live Theatre Production Seen and a Prescribed Play (Written Paper)
    30% of total A level marks
    Section A: Response to live theatre seen during the course
    Pupils see a range of live theatre and will respond, critically, to one of these evaluating the performances, direction and design elements.

    Section B: Study of a Set Text
    Pupils make an in depth study of the text, similar to that which is undertaken in English Literature, but take it further in that they have to understand and interpret how the play might be realised in performance.
  • Unit 2: Presentation of an Extract from a Published Play (Practical)
    20% of total A level marks
    Working in groups of between 2 - 8 plus, optionally, a director and designer, pupils will present the extract.  The work will be influenced by the study of an influential director, designer or practitioner (historical or contemporary) and linked to the pupil’s practical work.
  • Unit 3: The Study of two Prescribed Plays (Written Paper)
    30% of total A level marks
    Section A: One pre-20th century play
    An in-depth study of a play from a performance perspective using the same processes as those outlined in Unit 1 Section B above.

    Section B: One 20th century/contemporary play
    Pupils study another play and make suggestions for a complete stage realisation of a short extract from the selected text.
  • Unit 4: Presentation of Devised Drama (Practical)
    20% of total A level marks
    Working in groups of 2-8 plus, optionally, a director and designer, pupils devise, develop and present an original piece in a theatrical style of their choice.
University courses and careers

Drama and Theatre Studies is a fully-fledged A level which is accepted at all universities. Whilst it is crucial that you know the specific A level requirements for certain degree courses, Drama and Theatre Studies will be acceptable for most Arts, Humanities and Modern Language courses. The breadth of knowledge and experience that you will gain from the course will stand you in good stead for almost any career. It should not be viewed as a training to become a professional actor or director but it is a useful foundation for this and related careers, for example the arts, media and film, journalism, education and PA work. It should be noted that Drama/Theatre Studies courses at university are particularly competitive and high grades in Theatre Studies and English are likely to be needed to gain offers at the most popular institutions.

J.D. Freeman