Drama and Theatre Studies
The cultural richness of drama at King’s is a source of inspiration for our students who find a plethora of opportunities open to them. Creativity is encouraged and developed in many different ways, the number and variety of plays demonstrating the depth of artistic talent and enthusiasm within the school.
The school has an excellent reputation for the quality of drama staged in the impressive Fitzjames Theatre. Many of our thespians develop their skills further in speech and drama lessons. We are particularly proud that a number of Brutonians have gone on to join the National Youth Theatre, and participation in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is a highlight of the school’s calendar.
Our aim is that everyone at King’s is involved in the staging of a play at least once in their five years, whether it be in full limelight, or in the wings.
The Shape of the Year:
In the autumn term a monologue evening, an open mic night, a House play and the Whole School Production are staged: this may be a musical such as recently, The Pirates of Penzance, or Little Shop of Horrors, or it may be a full play text. The ethos is to involve as many year groups and as many people as possible. The spring term sees the advent of examination pieces in the shape of A2 devised work, Trinity Guildhall performance pieces given by 4th form GCSE Drama students, a sixth form play and a second House play. By the summer, the rest of the examination pieces take place: Drama GCSE Unit2, and AS Theatre Studies Unit 2, followed by the Junior Play in the penultimate week of the school year.
Other events:
Mr Tomalin, the Theatre manager runs stage crew activity for those interested in Technical Theatre
Throughout the year there are regular theatre trips laid on for Drama and Theatre Studies students in order that they fulfil the performance analyses in their coursework, and hone their understanding of stagecraft and performance skill, culminating in a three day trip to London’s West End, where students see not only some of the best theatre available, but partake in numerous workshops and back stage tours.
Accommodation:
Apart from The Fitzjames Theatre, a 211 seat, end on performance space, the department also teach and rehearse in the Drama Studio, a versatile space with a mirrored wall, soft floors and hung with blacks. Although relatively small, the space affords an intimacy consummate with rehearsal and exploration processes.
Academic options:
Although GCSE Drama and AS/A2 Theatre Studies are popular options, Drama is open to all students who want to be involved. Many students opt for Trinity Guildhall coaching either as an individual, in pairs, or small groups. Coaching takes place during activity time and is tailored around other commitments. Examinations take place at the end of the Easter term. At Grade 6 and above students earn UCAS points.
The Fitzjames Scholarship is available to 6th formers who exhibit rare skill in a performance or technical sphere.
Maggie King
Head of Drama and Theatre Studies
