Overview

This study guide will support you throughout your AQA A2 Drama and Theatre Studies course. The authors take you through the various elements of the course and explain the precise requirements of each unit, making sure you understand how to approach them and what the examiners are looking for in each case. A thorough section on pre-20th century texts offers advice on analysing and approaching each of the set texts from a performance perspective. The texts are all examined from the point of view of the actor, the director and the designer. The 20th century and contemporary drama texts are considered as texts for performance from the perspective of the director, offering guidance on how to prepare for the exam, compose your answer and use the theories of key practitioners to shape your understanding of the texts. The requirements of the devised drama unit are discussed with regard to the development of skills in acting or design, to work towards a performance. There is advice on time management, research and planning, and how to produce an effective portfolio. A reference chapter details theatrical terms and ideas that you will need to be able to refer to with confidence in your essays, together with an illustrated explanation of the common staging forms.