Theatre Studies
Study Overview
In VCE Theatre Studies students interpret scripts from the pre-modern era to the present day and produce theatre for audiences. Through practical and theoretical engagement with scripts they gain an insight into the origins and development of theatre and the influences of theatre on cultures and societies. Through the study of plays and theatre styles, students develop knowledge and understanding of theatre, its conventions and the elements of theatre composition.
Students learn about and demonstrate an understanding of the theatre production process by documenting and planning live performances. Students participate in workshops, attend rehearsals and present public performances. Students apply research and work in the production roles of actor, director and designer, developing an understanding and appreciation of the role and place of theatre. Throughout the study, students work collaboratively and individually in various production roles to creatively and imaginatively interpret scripts. Students are provided with the opportunity to see professional plays developing written responses to performances. Students apply critical thinking skills, analysing and evaluating productions.
* Note this subject has additional rehearsals to collaborate on group public performances and to prepare for Unit 4 exams*
Units
Unit 1: Pre- modern theatre styles and conventions
Unit 2: Modern theatre styles and conventions
Unit 3: Producing theatre
Unit 4: Presenting an interpretation
Assessment
Units 1- 4
Exploring Pre and Modern Theatre styles
Staging Theatre Productions
Analysing Playscripts
Solo Design Brief or Monologue Performance External Exam
Written Exam
Prerequisites / Suggested Prior Studies
Passion and Interest in Performing Arts and Design
Performance Skills
Interest in Technical Theatre Lighting, Sound, Set, Costume or Make-up
Creative, Critical and Analytical Writing Skills
Suggested Prior Studies
Year 9 and 10 electives can be any of the following:
Playmaking Developing Drama
On the Stage-Performing Theatre
Musical Theatre
Future Pathways
There are several skills you gain from doing Theatre Studies. Apart from specific theatre performance and design skills such as acting, directing, costume, lighting and sound design, there is also a focus on key literacy and analysis skills. In relation to life skills, you develop several baseline management skills, public speaking skills and transferable skills that you can take into any field of work in the 21st and ongoing centuries.
Employability Skills: Leadership, Empathy, Critical Thinking, Communication, Creativity, Collaboration Global Citizenship, Confidence, Technology
Courses Bachelor of Performing Arts: Directing, Acting or Production Design and Technical Theatre Courses
Jobs Actor, Director, Playwright, Lighting and Sound Technician, Costume/ Set Designer, Make up artist, Advertsing Accountant, Radio Presenter, Journalist, Lawyer, Tour Guide, Project Manager. Campaign Manager, Human Resources, Politician and Educator