SUBJECT:
PERFORMING ARTS (DRAMA)
EXAMINATION BOARD:
EDEXCEL
QUALIFICATION:
BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Merit – Distinction * in Performing Arts Level 2
and / or A – C in English GCSE
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
The 60-credit BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma extends the specialist work-related focus of the BTEC Level 3
Certificate and covers the key knowledge and practical skills required in the appropriate vocational sector. The
BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma offers greater flexibility and a choice of emphasis through the optional units.
The BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma offers an engaging programme for those who are clear about the area of
employment that they wish to enter. It is broadly equivalent to one GCE A Level.
Units:
Performing to an Audience.
The aim of this unit is to give learners experience of performing a role as part of an ensemble presenting
rehearsed work to a live audience in an appropriate vocational setting. The learner will focus their individual
strengths in a performance role within the context of a full-scale theatrical performance. The term ‘theatrical’
is used here to mean any live performance event offered to an audience, in an appropriate venue or space
licensed for the purpose. Learners will gain a realistic experience of carrying out a defined performance role or
roles, and of transferring and applying relevant performance skills. The work will be offered to a live audience,
whose experience and judgement of the performance should reflect those of a paying customer.
Devising Plays
This unit requires learners to engage with the devising process in a group context, thus allowing the group to
choose their own subject or theme for the play. The process of creating the play will become the responsibility
of the group who will need to share the necessary tasks that will result in a unique and original performance
piece. The chosen content of the play will govern the attendant research required to ensure that the content is
viable and fit for purpose. The form and structure of the play will be fashioned to the content by the group
who can decide on the most appropriate forms for their purposes.
Theatre in Education
Theatre in education offers artists and practitioners professional employment opportunities and an important
role in enriching the life and learning experiences of their audiences in an enjoyable and often fun way. Many
creative artists choose, at the beginning of their professional career, to work for a TIE company or to form a
new one. Many artists regard TIE as their main professional focus, while others work in TIE as part of a wider
professional portfolio. Learners completing this unit will gain the abilities and skills required to work as a
member of a touring TIE company.
Classical Theatre Performance
Learners will be expected to understand the social, historical and cultural background of classical roles
as well as be able to explore the performance styles of classical texts, be able to rehearse creatively and
responsibly and Be able to perform classical texts. Students will study, explore and perform both Commedia
roles as well as Shakespeare excerpts demonstrating skills of the contrasting styles.
Contemporary Theatre Performance
Learners will be given the opportunity to study contemporary theatre scripts and then apply their acting skills
from a fully creative and imaginative standpoint. Consequently, most of this unit has a practical focus while
still paying attention to relevant research into the chosen performance material. This research will be the basis
of practical work conducted in the workshop and in rehearsals leading to the performance of two
contemporary texts. Attention will be paid to character interpretation within a relevant acting style.
The Performance of Mime
Learners will explore the work of key mime practitioners and those who have influenced mime, thus helping
them develop performance skills and techniques and understand the essence of a physical performance.
Learners will investigate a range of mime techniques through workshops, some leading to demonstration of
skills and performances. The unit gives learners the opportunity to build their knowledge, physical, analytical
and performance skills and develop their creativity. It encourages learners to develop the ability to be
autonomous and work in an ensemble.
Developing Physical Theatre
While physical theatre can be seen as an art form in its own right, the skills developed through its study can
enhance and enrich the skills and range of all performers. This unit introduces you to physical theatre as a
unique form. You will need to research several practitioners and apply skills both in independent and
professionally led workshops. You will ultimately be working with a script as a starting point and showing your
increasing skill level throughout the project.
Applying Physical Theatre
Student will be asked to show their understanding in progression moving from exploring physical theatre to
applying this in this unit. They will be required to be able to explore text using physical theatre skills be able to
use physical theatre skills to develop a role/character in rehearsal, be able to perform role/character using
physical theatre skills. This may be in a number of performances and draw on a variety of explored Physical
Theatre skills.
For further information please see Miss L Jones or consult the website.