Why Study Drama?
Drama at King's is a thriving part of the curriculum and a compulsory subject at Third Form, and many continue their studies at GCSE and A-level. Pupils do not just study acting, but learn about the history of the theatre and study some of the great plays and directors. They also learn about how theatres work and the different aspects of putting together a production.
Drama is primarily a practical subject and the majority of the learning comes through getting up and doing, and is focused on the play in performance.
Lights, Camera, Action!
Pupils have gone on to study the subject at drama school and university, and several work in the industry, either on stage and behind the scenes.
Our working theatre is at the heart of our community, and pupils are actively encouraged to involve themselves in its day-to-day running, thereby learning new skills. We try to offer a wide variety of performances in which to participate. For example:
- Large-scale musical Grease
- The Scholars’ Murder Mystery
- Classic drama in the form of The Great Gatsby
In addition, pupils are encouraged to produce their own projects and it is open to all year groups to audition for plays and musicals.
Drama Facilities
The school is fortunate to have a 250-seat dedicated theatre fully equipped with computer lighting desk, a large inventory of lanterns, up-to-date sound systems and flexible staging, plus a full-time Theatre Manager.
The department also has a black box drama studio with dance floor, staging, computer lighting desk and sound system. In addition, it has a dedicated teaching space and extensive costume and prop stores, which pupils are encouraged to access during drama classes.
Our wonderful amphitheatre is an exciting facility that gives us an excellent opportunity to perform outside and in the round.
Opportunities
Our pupils are afforded every opportunity to challenge themselves creatively during their time at King’s. Many take their acting and performing incredibly seriously, and a handful of pupils take the decision to pursue this as their chosen career.