Because it will develop you intellectually, artistically and socially. You will explore everything that goes into making the theatrical moment, from text to performance, to design elements such as set, lighting and costume. You will study great plays by great playwrights, will perform them alongside your own devised work and will explore the work of the most influential directors of the modern age. All this is supported by a dynamic programme of theatre trips and professional workshops. It is essential for those who wish to go on to specialist drama or technical training and ideal for those with performance flair who wish to broaden their curriculum.

Students should be able and willing to go to the theatre regularly and to take part in a range of College productions, either as performers or technicians. The ability to work constructively and supportively as part of a team is essential.

 

Entry with:

GCSE grade B in Drama and GCSE grade B in a subject requiring good writing skills e.g. English or humanities. If GCSE Drama is not studied, evidence of practical performing experience. 

• • Practical skills - you will develop your own skills in acting, directing and also, if you wish, in technical and design skills
• • Plays - you will study a selection of set plays from different periods, always understanding them in practical, production terms
• • Practitioners - you will explore the ideas of the Twentieth Century's most influential theorists of the stage
• • Productions - you will see and analyse a number of live performances.

 

Awarding body: AQA

AS Level Units

Unit 1: Live theatre production and prescribed play (written paper 1hr 30 mins) 60%.
Unit 2: Presentation of an extract from a play (practical exam) 40%.
 

Advanced (A2) Level Units

Unit 3: Further prescribed plays (written paper 2 hrs) 60%.
Unit 4: Presentation of devised drama (practical exam) 40%.
 

 

 

• • Classes are taught in the superbly equipped Robinson Theatre, the dance hall and the rehearsal studio.
• • Students make regular use of our workshops, wardrobe and scenery stores
• • Access to technical and costume expertise and a well-stocked drama library.

 

“I have loved every aspect of Theatre Studies at Hills Road! We also have seen some awe-inspiring plays over the past two years. The classroom atmosphere is fantastic: our teachers are so supportive and inspirational in helping us flourish in directing, performing and writing. One of the best parts is the practical exam, working in a team in order to create our own theatrical productions has been one of the most fun, satisfying experiences of my time at Hills Road.”
Katy Halbert