Performing Arts

Performing Arts

Overview

Performing Arts (CCEA)

Performing Arts is a good choice for students who have completed GCSE Drama, or have an interest in/background in performing (drama/dance/singing). The emphasis is firmly on the process of creating drama, individually, in pairs and especially in group situations. Performing Arts students generally have:

• a good standard of physical and vocal skills
• clarity and detail in writing
• the ability to analyse and evaluate their performance work and others
• an interest in attending productions
• an ability to be creative
• an interest in performing/directing
• the ability to work well in a group situation.

Performing Arts A-Level offers the chance to develop skills vital for all third level courses and future careers; increasingly, the transferable skills of communication, team-work, the ability to work independently, problem-solving, and creativity are seen as highly desirable by universities and employers. It is deliberately structured with a view to gaining skills useful to working in the arts and media industries. With film and television growing hugely in recent years, Performing Arts A-Level is directly relevant in terms of qualification and experience. Every year, Performing Arts students feel a tremendous growth in confidence as a result of taking part in their examination production.

Another benefit is that there is no written examination paper in Year 13; there is also no need to have studied Drama or Performing Arts at GCSE.

In both AS and A2 internally assessed components are 60% and the examination (performance) is worth 40%.

This year’s AS class have been working on plays by Alan Ayckbourne, Joan Littlewood, Bertholt Brecht, William Shakespeare and Willy Russell among others; they have also attended productions in The Garage Theatre and The Grand Opera House. Each year the practical examination is performed in the school’s Lecture Theatre to a packed audience of fellow students.