Welcome to Drama and Theatre Studies at Brighton College (Singapore)
Before starting the course in August, we would like all pupils to spend some time developing their understanding of theatre and performance. This preparation is designed to help pupils build confidence, creativity and wider theatrical knowledge before the course begins.
The most successful pupils are those who arrive with curiosity about theatre, a willingness to explore new ideas and an interest in live performance.
We are very much looking forward to working with you in August and beginning an exciting exploration of theatre, performance and creativity together.
1. Watch Theatre
Over the summer, pupils should aim to watch at least two productions. These can be:
• live theatre productions
• streamed productions
• recorded stage productions
While watching, pupils should think about:
• acting choices
• staging and movement
• lighting, sound and costume
• how the audience might respond
• how meaning is created on stage
After each performance, pupils should write a short review or reflection notes.
Suggested productions
• The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
• War Horse
• Frankenstein
• A Streetcar Named Desire
2. Explore Theatre Practitioners
Pupils should research some key theatre practitioners and become familiar with their style and ideas.
Suggested practitioners:
• Konstantin Stanislavski
• Bertolt Brecht
• Antonin Artaud
• Jerzy Grotowski
Pupils do not need to know everything in detail. A basic understanding of:
• what type of theatre they created
• their rehearsal methods
• their ideas about performance will provide an excellent starting point.
3. Keep a Theatre Journal
Pupils should keep a notebook or digital journal over the summer. This can include:
• notes on productions watched
• interesting staging ideas
• costume or set design sketches
• reviews and reflections
• ideas for performances
• observations about characters or audiences
This journal will become a valuable resource throughout the course.
4. Develop Performance Skills
Pupils are encouraged to continue developing their practical skills by:
• learning monologues
• attending theatre workshops
• creating short performances with friends
• experimenting with physical theatre and movement
• reading plays independently
5. Learn Key Drama Vocabulary
Pupils should begin becoming familiar with important drama terminology and make a Drama Dictionary. Key terms include:
• proxemics
• ensemble
• naturalism
• physical theatre
• pace
• tension
• symbolism
• staging
• cross-cutting
Understanding these terms will help pupils discuss and analyse performance confidently.