Drama

 

 

Each Drama lesson at HSA is designed to build confidence, foster creativity through play, and nurture curiosity by exploring key theatrical disciplines. With live performance opportunities in our on-site theatre, every pupil is encouraged to discover and develop their own creative voice. As students progress through the school, they will build skills in the many roles that contribute to a full-scale production — from acting and directing to lighting, sound, stage management, costume, and set design. Pupils will be given the tools to build strong skills in self-expression, boosting their ability to communicate clearly and share ideas with confidence — benefits that extend well beyond the theatre walls.  

Above all, Drama at HSA is about having fun, nurturing imaginations, and feeling free to take creative risks in a supportive space. 

Key Topics covered
  • Character development 
  • Puppetry 
  • Greek Theatre 
  • Shakespeare 
  • Clowning  
  • Commedia Dell ‘Arte  
  • Mime 
  • Radio Plays 
  • Physical Theatre 
  • Improvisation 

GCSE Drama students will build on previous learning to refine both performance and backstage skills, while deepening their understanding of theatre’s role across a timeline of different societies. Through the study of influential texts that have shaped the theatrical landscape, they will explore how drama reflects, challenges, and inspires the world around us. 

Enrichment opportunities and career paths  

Each year group steps into the spotlight with the chance to perform a rich variety of productions on their journey at HSA — from the magic of nativities and the energy of musicals to the timeless words of Shakespeare, the intrigue of immersive theatre, and the boldness of contemporary works. Every pupil is given the space to shine and the stage to share their voice. 

 

Drama provides pupils with invaluable skills that could be applied to these possible career paths: 

  • Actor/Actress 
  • Voiceover artist 
  • Dancer/Choreographer 
  • Director 
  • Playwright/Scriptwriter 
  • Stage Manager 
  • Lighting Designer 
  • Sound Designer/Technician 
  • Set Designer 
  • Costume Designer 
  • Broadcaster 
  • Public Speaker 
  • Teacher 
  • Politician 
  • Barrister 
     
“The theatre is the only place where you can live several lifetimes in one.” 

- Oscar Wilde