BTEC Level 2 Performing Arts: Developing Skills for Performance
Course Introduction
Welcome to the BTEC Level 2 Performing Arts course. Designed for Year 10 students, this course aims to introduce you to the world of drama, theatre, and performance. Through 30 engaging lessons, you will develop practical skills, deepen your understanding of performance techniques, and explore the works of influential practitioners in the field of drama, including Brecht, Stanislavski, Artaud, and Frantic Assembly.
Throughout the course, you’ll participate in workshops, practical exercises, and collaborative projects that encourage creativity and expression. By the end of this course, you will have a strong foundation in performance skills and an appreciation for the art of drama.
Course Goals and Aims
Goals
- To develop practical performance skills and techniques.
- To explore major theatre practitioners and their contributions to drama.
- To foster collaboration and teamwork through group performance activities.
- To enhance critical reflection and self-assessment of performance work.
Aims
- To introduce key concepts in drama and performance.
- To cultivate physical, vocal, and emotional expression through diverse exercises.
- To encourage audience awareness and engagement.
- To prepare students for further studies in performing arts.
Course Outline
Module 1: Introduction to Performing Arts (Lessons 1-5)
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Lesson 1: What is Performing Arts?
- Introduction to the course and its objectives.
- Discussion of the elements of performance: voice, movement, text, and character.
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Lesson 2: Understanding Drama Genres
- Exploration of different drama genres (tragedy, comedy, physical theatre).
- Group activity: Identify and present genre characteristics.
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Lesson 3: Key Theatre Practitioners
- Introduction to Bertolt Brecht and his theory of Epic Theatre.
- Discussion of techniques and their purpose in performance.
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Lesson 4: Stanislavski's System
- Overview of Konstantin Stanislavski's method acting.
- Practical exercises on character development and emotional recall.
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Lesson 5: Artaud and the Theatre of Cruelty
- Exploration of Antonin Artaud’s concepts.
- Group discussions on the impact of shock and emotion in performance.
Module 2: Developing Performance Skills (Lessons 6-15)
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Lesson 6: Voice and Speech
- Vocal warm-ups and exercises.
- Individual practice on articulation, projection, and expression.
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Lesson 7: Physical Theatre Techniques
- Introduction to physical theatre and movement.
- Group exercises focusing on body language and storytelling through movement.
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Lesson 8: Creating Character
- Character building using Stanislavski's techniques.
- Improv activity to explore character relationships.
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Lesson 9: Script Analysis
- Techniques for analyzing a script for performance.
- Group work to extract themes and objectives from selected scenes.
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Lesson 10: The Role of Director
- Understanding the director's vision and responsibilities.
- Workshop: Students direct short scenes.
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Lesson 11: Ensemble Work
- Importance of collaboration in performance.
- Group exercises to build trust and connectivity among performers.
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Lesson 12: Use of Space
- Exploring stage space and blocking techniques.
- Practicing how to utilize the performance area effectively.
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Lesson 13: Improvisation Techniques
- Engaging in improv games to enhance spontaneity.
- Group exercises on developing scenes without a script.
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Lesson 14: Movement and Rhythm
- Understanding the rhythm of movement in performing arts.
- Creating a short piece using rhythm and movement principles.
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Lesson 15: Feedback and Reflection
- Techniques for providing and receiving constructive criticism.
- Reflective journaling on personal and group performances.
Module 3: Creating Performance Pieces (Lessons 16-30)
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Lesson 16: Introduction to Devised Theatre
- Explanation of devised theatre and collaborative creation.
- Brainstorming session for original performance ideas.
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Lesson 17: Creating a Theme
- Workshops focused on developing themes and messages.
- Drafting ideas and concepts for final pieces.
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Lesson 18: Scriptwriting Basics
- Introduction to basic scriptwriting techniques.
- Individual activity: Write a short scene based on class themes.
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Lesson 19: Rehearsal Techniques
- Strategies for effective rehearsal.
- Group rehearsals of short scenes.
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Lesson 20: Expression through Music
- Using music and sound in performance.
- Experimenting with different soundscapes and their effects.
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Lesson 21: Lighting and Set Design
- Introduction to elements of stage design and lighting.
- Practical group activity: Designing a simple stage concept.
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Lesson 22: Costume and Identity
- Discussion on the role of costume in character portrayal.
- Group brainstorming for costume ideas for performances.
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Lesson 23: Running Order and Structure
- Understanding how to structure a performance.
- Developing a running order for devised pieces.
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Lesson 24: Final Rehearsals
- Last-minute adjustments and refining performances.
- Peer feedback sessions before final showing.
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Lesson 25: Performance Techniques for an Audience
- Preparing for live performance – managing nerves and stage presence.
- Practical tips for engaging an audience.
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Lesson 26: Final Previews
- Dress rehearsals and previews in front of peers.
- Final adjustments based on feedback.
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Lesson 27: Performing for an Audience
- Showcasing devised performances to an audience.
- Roles of the performers and crew during the performance.
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Lesson 28: Post-Performance Reflection
- Group discussion and journal entries on what went well and what can be improved.
- Individual reflection on personal growth through the course.
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Lesson 29: Reviewing and Critiquing Performances
- Constructive critique of peer performances.
- Learning to appreciate different styles and techniques.
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Lesson 30: Course Review and Future Steps
- Overview of key learnings and experiences throughout the course.
- Discussion on pathways in performing arts and future learning opportunities.
References
- Artaud, Antonin. The Theatre and Its Double. New York: Grove Press, 1958.
- Brecht, Bertolt. Brecht on Theatre: The Development of an Aesthetic. New York: Hill and Wang, 1964.
- Stanislavski, Konstantin. An Actor Prepares. London: Bloomsbury Methuen Drama, 2008.
- Frantic Assembly. Frantic Assembly's Guide to Devising Theatre. London: Nick Hern Books, 2009.
- Hodge, Alison. The Cambridge Introduction to Theatre Studies. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2000.
This course plan will provide Year 10 students a comprehensive learning experience in developing essential skills for performance while fostering creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking in the field of drama.