A Level | Drama and Theatre Studies – Leighton Park

A Level in Drama and Theatre Studies

Exam Board:  OCR

Will the course suit me?

If you are seeking a future in which you want to be known as a good communicator this course is for you. Theatre Studies combines well with other subjects such as English, History, Psychology, Politics, Music and Art.

It would obviously help if you have a real love of the theatre and the arts in general. You must be prepared to work in a group and take responsibility for creating the original practical presentations the course demands. It is important that you are able to communicate your ideas both in the studio and in written work – and be prepared to listen to feedback and change your work. We expect energy, commitment and a desire to experiment. In return, we offer the opportunity to challenge yourself and your ideas in a creative environment.

Course description

The course requires you to create your own original theatre through devising with others and to study certain play-texts through practical workshops run by your teachers. Exploration is a key concept – exploring the text, the contexts and the aims of different theatre practitioners using techniques taught on the course.

Benefits of the course

It will allow you to use your imaginative and creative resources on a daily basis and constantly challenge your perceptions of life and culture. The course develops critical thinking and analysis and challenges you to use all aspects of your experience and personality. It will develop your ability to work as a team and respect the ideas and opinions of others. The course will develop your personal performance and communication skills. It will challenge you at all times and give you a true sense of fulfilment.

Outside the classroom

• Theatre trips to see challenging and interesting theatre in preparation for examination question preparations.
• Personal research, independent rehearsal of work and presentations.
• To take a role in the creative team of theatre productions in school – either as performer or in stage management.
• Audition preparation for Drama Schools and professional work.

Future opportunities

Drama is popular as one half of joint honours degrees in many Universities. Such as interesting combinations of complementary disciplines such as Drama and Philosophy.

There are many areas of study and professional life where proven attainment in Drama and Theatre Studies is deemed an advantage – particularly in the study of Law and the Humanities. It is a good subject for any course or career that requires good written or oral communication skills. Skills gained on the course are clearly beneficial in all areas particularly marketing, media and teaching.

If you are convinced of your commitment to the world of theatre, as either an actor, designer, stage manager or director your teachers will help prepare you for Drama Schools and other vocational degree courses.

Assessment

If you have any queries about this course, please contact Head of Department: Jessica Wittert van Hoogland

To apply for our Sixth Form, please see our Admissions page.