Academic : Drama and Theatre Studies

‘There was never yet an uninteresting life. Such a thing is an impossibility. Inside of the dullest exterior there is a drama, a comedy, and a tragedy.' Mark Twain

Drama unlocks creativity and brings people together. There is nothing like the process of putting on a play to unite people. At Truro High School for Girls, Drama is not just an academic subject, but a life experience. Girls use their imaginations and intellect freely to express themselves in a structured environment.

Girls in Years 7-9 have dedicated Drama lessons incorporated into their English syllabus whilst at GCSE, girls are introduced to the History of Theatre and Theatrical Styles. From here they prepare, with guidance and expert support, their own devised pieces based on a style of their choice - Naturalism, Surrealism, Ensemble, Physical Theatre, Story-Telling and Classical theatre to name but a few. By Year 11, girls have started to build up a portfolio of diverse acting experiences.

At A Level, Year 12 study consists of a practical exploration of dramatic texts and theatre practitioners. Stanislavski and Brecht are studied, along with Directing, and students are expected to work enthusiastically on interpreting a scripted piece of theatre for performance. In Year 13 students are taught screenwriting structure in preparation for producing their own devised piece of theatre. Skills are taught in Drama which give students a confidence and thirst for life.

The Department has its own studio theatre, The Jenny Agutter Drama Studio, a rehearsal room and well-equipped costume department. Regular trips are organised to the Hall for Cornwall and The Theatre Royal, Plymouth as well as joint ventures with the English Department to Stratford-upon-Avon.

If lessons don't provide enough Drama, you can also take Speech and Drama extra-curricular lessons at lunchtimes leading to LAMDA examinations or join The Feelgood Theatre Company after school. Come and enjoy the smell of the greasepaint and roar of the crowd!