Year 11 Theatre Studies Units 1 and 2
Overview
In this course we explore and develop our understanding of the history of theatre from ancient times to the present day. Through practical workshops, collaboration, research projects, attending live performances of professional theatre productions and online lessons, you will gain a deep understanding of the intentions and purposes of theatre and the impact it has had and can have on society.
Throughout the year, you will delve into the wide variety of both on and off-stage roles that comprise the world of theatre. This includes acting, directing and set, props, lighting, sound, costume and make up design.
You will learn the production process of theatre making and the skills associated with these production roles. You will work in selected production roles to apply what you have learned to interpret scripts for live performances!
Unit One: Pre-modern theatre styles, movements and conventions (pre-1945)
Unit Two: Modern theatre styles, movements and conventions (1945 onwards)
In both units there is the expectation of compulsory attendance at several in-person workshops and performances. In Unit Two, you will see a live production from the VCAA Theatre Studies playlist.
Who is it for?
This subject is for students who enjoy and are passionate about all aspects of the theatre. It is for those who want to explore and experience the world of theatre with a 360-degree view; as an actor, director, designer and audience member.
This course is perfect for students who are looking to further study the performing arts post school or those looking to work in any aspect of the professional performing arts industry.
What do you do?
- You will collaborate with your fellow students in production teams to interpret a script for a live presentation to an audience
- Participate in in-person practical workshops
- Experiment with theatre technologies
- Analyse two live performances at some of Melbourne’s incredible venues such as the Melbourne Theatre Company or the Arts Centre
- Explore the history of theatre from the time of the Ancient Greeks through to the modern day
- Learn about dramaturgy and how to apply it to various production roles
- Learn how to analyse and evaluate live performances and understand the ways in which creatives make specific choices for their audiences
What skills do you need?
You will be required to actively engage with all stages of the theatre production process, analyse two live theatre productions and bring a sense of passion and commitment to your work!
What skills do you develop?
- Performance skills
- Proficiency in the ways different production areas (acting, directing and design) can be applied to interpret theatre scripts and productions
- Ability to critically examine creative choices
- Analytical, evaluative and critical thinking in response to theatre scripts and productions
- Confidence and self-expression of your creative ideas
Requirements
This course is delivered through a hybrid model of both online lessons and occasional in person practical workshops and performances, and compulsory attendance of live professional theatre productions.
For the online lessons you will require access to the internet and be expected to attend these weekly.
Other requirements:
- a headset with microphone
- a webcam
- a screen casting application (?)
- A3 art folio or digital equivalent
- Access the scripts for analysis (some provided, some required to purchase TBA)
- The support of a supervisor or mentor within the school to guide the theatre production processes
Things to think about
You will be:
- required to complete an Expression of Interest form and speak with the Theatre Studies teacher at VSV to confirm that you have the necessary supports to study this subject effectively
- working collaboratively and independently
- consistently documenting your contributions in your folio
- required to develop your ability to analyse and evaluate creative and imaginative interpretations of productions
- expected to attend production team meetings, rehearsals and take part in the presentation of a live performance for an audience
- required to attend the in-person workshops and one theatre production in inner-city Melbourne
- expected to invest in your ability to think, write and speak critically in response to theatre
- presenting evidence of your contributions to your teacher and communicating with them via phone, email and through regular attendance at the weekly 1-hour online classes
- meet the VCAA assessment requirements for the study
- assessed by your teacher for Outcomes 1, 2 and 3
Things you can do now
Visit the MTC Education page:
- Step behind the scenes for a virtual tour of Southbank Theatre and discover how magic is created on stage in an MTC production.
- Take a virtual tour of MTC HQ and explore the spaces where plays are rehearsed, sets are built and costumes are made.
- Discover the ever expanding library of digital resources created especially for students by our friends at MTC
Explore the VCAA website for further information about Theatre Studies. Read the subject information, past exams and assessors reports. Find out about the subject through the VCE Theatre Studies Study Design.
Things to have a look at
National Theatre at Home
Explore examples of on-line theatre productions from the National Theatre in London.