Drama and Theatre Studies

What You Will Explore

A-Level Drama and Theatre Studies is about more than acting—it is a comprehensive course that will enhance your understanding of theatre in all its forms, including:

• Theoretical Studies: You will study the history of theatre, influential practitioners (such as Stanislavski, Brecht, and Artaud), and key theatrical movements and genres.
• Textual Analysis: Delve into both classic and contemporary plays, understanding their themes, context, and dramatic structure.
• Practical Work: You’ll get involved in creating, rehearsing, and performing devised and scripted performances. From directing to designing sets, costumes, lighting, and sound, the practical components will deepen your understanding of all aspects of theatre production.
• Live Theatre: Experience theatre as it’s meant to be—live. You will attend and analyse professional performances, gaining insight into how theory is brought to life on stage.

This AQA specification allows you to explore the richness of theatre as both a performer and a critic, offering a balanced mix of practical and academic skills.

Component 1: Drama and Theatre

• This is designed to allow you to demonstrate your creativity and imagination in interpreting set texts. You will study two contrasting set texts, outlined by the examining body AQA, and approach them through both theoretical and practical activities, such as researching themes and contextual understanding, analysing script and discussing and developing vocal and physical characterisation.

Component 2: Creating Original Drama

• You will engage with a stimulus to create a piece of original drama influenced by the work of a recognised theatre practitioner. This component is accompanied by a working notebook, outlining the creation of ideas, rehearsal developments and process as well as theoretical research and application of your chosen practitioner influence. You will also watch many live and streamed theatre productions to support your progression as a performer and develop your critical, contextual and analytical thinking.

Component 3: Making Theatre

• You will practically explore 3 key extracts each taken from a different play, in which you will develop skills in character, voice, movement, ensemble and audience awareness. 2 of these extracts will be practitioner influenced and are all accompanied by a reflective journal that documents the practical approaches and processes you have used. You will learn how to create and develop original devised ideas to communicate meaning as part of the theatre making process. Throughout the course there will be opportunities to work with visiting practitioners and take part in workshops led by professional performing artists. You will also be invited to join the department on trips to experience a wide range of theatre and performance art.

Click here for link to Exam Board specification for Drama and Theatre Studies A Level

Throughout the course, you will cultivate a wide range of valuable skills that go beyond the drama studio:

• Creative Problem Solving: Devising performances requires original thinking and innovative solutions to creative challenges.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Theatre is a collaborative art form, meaning you will often work as part of a team, developing your communication and leadership skills.
• Critical Thinking and Analysis: Through textual analysis and reviewing live performances, you will learn to dissect complex material and articulate insightful responses.
• Confidence and Public Speaking: Performing on stage helps to build self-confidence and teaches you how to present and communicate effectively in front of an audience.
• Time Management and Organisation: Balancing rehearsals, performances, and written assessments requires efficient organisation and time management.
• Technical Knowledge: Whether it’s learning about lighting, sound design, or stage management, you will gain technical theatre skills that are transferable across industries.

Transferable Skills and Real-World Impact

• The skills you acquire in A-Level Drama and Theatre Studies are highly transferable and sought after in many industries. From enhancing your emotional intelligence and problem-solving abilities to fostering creativity and empathy, these competencies are in demand in today’s job market.
• Additionally, studying drama helps you understand human behaviour and different perspectives, fostering social awareness and cultural sensitivity—skills that are essential for a wide variety of careers and life experiences.

A-Level Drama and Theatre Studies opens up a diverse range of pathways in both higher education and the world of work. Whether you see yourself pursuing a career in the arts or looking for skills that will make you stand out in any field, this course provides a solid foundation.

Further Education Opportunities

• University Degrees: Drama and Theatre Studies A-Level provides a pathway to undergraduate courses in Drama, Theatre Arts, Performing Arts, Stage Management, and related fields. Many students also go on to study English, History, Film Studies, and Creative Writing, which complement their drama studies.
• Drama Schools: If you’re serious about pursuing a career in performance, top drama schools in the UK such as RADA, LAMDA, and Guildhall School of Music & Drama are natural next steps.
• Technical Theatre and Production: There are also university courses and apprenticeships in backstage roles like lighting design, sound engineering, stage management, and set design.

Career Opportunities

• Performing Arts: Actor, director, playwright, screenwriter, and theatre producer.
• Broadcast Media: Roles in television, radio, and film as actors, producers, directors, or content creators.
• Teaching and Education: Teaching drama at secondary schools, colleges, or working as a drama coach.
• Creative Industries: Work in event production, arts administration, casting, or PR for arts organisations.
• Corporate Roles: The communication, leadership, and teamwork skills you develop are highly valued in careers such as public relations, marketing, human resources, and management.