Drama & Theatre A Level
Course Overview
Drama and Theatre at A Level aims to develop performance skill, deepen creative exploration and widen analytical and reflective practice through written and practical study.
Over the two-year course, you will study a range of texts and practitioners which will provide you with the knowledge and understanding to explore drama as a practical art form, in which ideas and meaning are communicated to an audience through choices of form, style and convention. You will create, perform and respond to drama, while also exploring relationships between theory and practice in a range of theatrical styles, periods and historical, social and cultural contexts.
You will need a passion for drama and an interest in theatre as you will analyse live theatre and experience ways in which theatre makers contribute to create theatre.
Course Components
Year 1 & Year 2 Components
- Devising – Performance of an original piece of drama, supported by a portfolio
- Text in Performance – Externally assessed monologue/duologue and group performance
- Theatre makers in practice – Written exam
Key Info
Minimum Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including:
- GCSE grade 4 in Drama
- Or GCSE grade 4 in English Language or Literature if Drama not studied at GCSE
Assessment
- 40% Exam
- 60% Coursework
- Exam Board: Pearson
Subject Lead
Miss H Patrick
Why Choose this Course?
If you are keen on acting and interested in gaining a greater understanding of how theatre and plays work or are curious about issues and ideas and have a creative instinct for communicating your views through drama, then this is the course for you. A Level Drama demands practical, creative and communication skills in almost equal measure. You will extend your ability to create drama through adopting a performing role. You will also be required to write about drama and develop your powers of analysis to become an informed critic.
The course is a healthy blend of coursework and examination, both practical and written. There is an expectation that much of the performance work is undertaken through rehearsal outside the curriculum lesson.
Skills you Gain
Drama allows for personal development and emotional understanding. Activities help to build essential skills for success in wider studies, future pursuits and life in general.
- Communication
- Confidence
- Teamwork and Leadership
- Listening and Responding
- Creativity
- Critical thinking and Problem Solving
All are sought after skills by higher education and employers that will help you stand out in the workplace whatever your choice of career.
After Northgate
A Level Drama and Theatre is suitable for anyone wanting to pursue arts or drama in Higher Education, or as support for any course requiring good communication or team-work skills. In addition to performing, directing and teaching, this course might lead to employment in drama therapy, arts organisations, media companies, hospitality and leisure or educational institutions.
"It’s a great subject to take to break the ice and meet new people. You start with fun, engaging practical lessons right from day one!"