Performance Studies

Why choose Performance Studies?

The course aims to establish an approach to the performing arts which is

Multi-disciplinary and develops qualities of imagination, sensitivity and artistic knowledge and understanding. You will acquire skills in each of the art forms of dance, drama and music and study approaches that unite them.

Through the study of practitioners and genres, you are introduced to the cultural, social and historical contexts in which the Performing arts operate and you evaluate your own performance work in this wider context.

What does the course involve?

Advanced Subsidiary.

Unit one

The Language of the Performing Arts.

You will have the opportunity to develop your technical skills by devising four short pieces: one in each of drama, dance and music and a further piece which makes creative links between the art forms.

Unit two

Contextual Studies 1.

From two of the three disciplines of dance, music and drama you will study at depth the work of a leading practitioner.

Unit three

Performance Realisation.

You will undertake two short performances based on the works you have studied for unit 2.

A2

Unit four

Community Performance Project

Working in one or more groups, you devise and perform a piece that grows from research into a community-based historical story or situation. The piece will integrate the three art forms.

Unit five

Contextual studies 2

You will study one topic from three options and within that topic study three practitioners.

Unit six.

Student Devised Performance

You will work in groups of between three and seven to create an original piece of performance work that explores techniques and approaches learned during the course.

How is the course assessed?

AS

Unit 1: 15% coursework

Unit 2: 15% written examination

Unit 3: 20% visiting examination

A2

Unit 4: 15% coursework

Unit 5: 15% written examination

Unit 6% 20% visiting examination

How is this course taught?

This is a practical course which is taught by two specialist teachers. Theory is integrated with the practical work. You will have the opportunity to develop your skills in your specialist area and to contribute to the creation of devised pieces of theatre which integrate music, drama and dance.

Why is it valuable?

This course will enable you to work in all three of the disciplines of drama, music and dance and will provide you with a valuable qualification for progression to either Higher Education or to the world of work.