Drama & Theatre Studies
Our Aim
Drama is an integral part of English at Belfast Royal Academy as well as being a discrete subject at Key Stages 3 and 4. The opportunity to study Drama and Theatre Studies at AS and A2 Level gives pupils an excellent understanding of practitioners, playwrights and theatrical conventions.
At Key Stage 4 the GCSE pupils follow the CCEA course which culminates in a scripted performance in March. Close textual study and performance gives GCSE pupils a deeper understanding of drama and enables them to critically evaluate their own performance in order to develop their skills.
AS and A2 Level Drama and Theatre Studies is a demanding course which also culminates in a performance in the Easter Term. The academic nature of the course is combined with the opportunity to really explore in great detail aspects of theatre and performance that are of interest to the pupils. Learning is often achieved through practical exploration of texts and practitioners, promoting teamwork and experimentation with performance, direction and technical elements.GCSE and AS/A2 Level students are encouraged to attend at least two theatre performances each year.
Curriculum
- Key Stage 3
At present Drama is available as an option at Form 3 and the emphasis is on improvisation, role play and teamwork. Some script work is also covered, including the study of Our Day Out.
- Key Stage 4
Pupils follow the CCEA course which entails 60% coursework. Their practical work is split into three separate tasks: improvisation, practical exploration of set text and scripted performance. The GCSE examination paper accounts for the remaining 40% of the mark.
- AS/A2
Pupils follow the AQA specification for AS and A2. Work studied at AS Level includes Shadow of a Gunman, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Stanislavski.
At A2 Level, A View from the Bridge and Hedda Gabler are studied alongside the practitioner, Brecht. At both AS and A2 Level pupils will be required to attend productions and analyse their effectiveness.
Facilities & Resources
There is a purpose built Drama Studio in the Louis Lord building, with an impressive lighting system. The Assembly Hall stage can also be used if a bigger space is needed.
Additional Information
Pupils are given the chance to show their enthusiasm and love of drama in a wide range of activities throughout their time at Belfast Royal Academy.
Opportunities to take part in extra-curricular drama are available for all years. The vibrant and popular Junior Drama club is available for Form 1 – 3 pupils on a Tuesday afternoon, enabling pupils to express and enjoy themselves. Each school year the Dramatic Society puts on a full production in the Assembly Hall. The opening evening of the production is often hosted by Friends of the Academy who hold a welcome reception for guests.
School News
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13th May 2008
District Championships, Antrim Forum
GIRLS’ ATHLETICS RESULTS
12th May 2008
District Championships, Antrim Forum
CHESS RESULTS
12th May 2008
UK Chess Challenge Megafinal of Northern Ireland
SHOWJUMPING RESULTS
12th May 2008
Ulster Schools’ Showjumping Spring Championships