Callywith Drama students’ first theatre trip

A Level Drama and Theatre Studies students had the fantastic opportunity to see Patrick Marber’s contemporary interpretation of the play, Hedda Gabler at The Theatre Royal Plymouth for Callywith College's first ever theatre trip.

Students and staff were incredibly excited to see the show which was a set text for their written examination. Drama lecturer Clare Underwood said: "We were beyond excited to see a set text coming to a local theatre and felt privileged to be the very first group to go on a College trip. Drama and Theatre studies students behaved impeccably well and represented the College in a positive light. It was an absolute pleasure visiting the theatre with such a passionate group of young people. We learnt so much from watching the powerful performance of Hedda Gabler, evident in the thoughtful post-show discussions between peers and staff. Our students were able to articulate their experience of the performance, using drama terminology to express themselves with confidence and flair.”

Clare exclaimed: “Thank you to everyone who made the trip possible and to our wonderful students for making the trip so much fun!”

A Level Drama student Chloe said: “The play was amazing and had a confusing but rich plotline. The stage was set out in an almost surrealistic manner allowing the audience to conjure up their own version of it. The actors lost themselves to their roles, which made the audience engage with the play. We had an amazing time during the trip there, with lingering anticipation and bubbling excitement and we can’t wait for future theatre trips!”

Fellow student Ellie added: “Seeing the script from one of our set texts being brought to life left us all feeling inspired - it was a valuable and necessary experience to see the play being performed and not just read, for this is what theatre and drama is all about; seeing the live performance and not just the words on a page. I am really looking forward our next expedition.”

“Students have been working tirelessly since arriving at Callywith College in September, exploring theatre companies and set text and acting workshops”, lecturer Clare said. “We've been blown away by our students drive, determination and creative thinking skills. We will soon be recording our 'Chair Duets' following a Frantic Assembly inspired masterclass, which will be shared on the Callywith Facebook page for all to enjoy!”

Drama student Abbie spoke of how she is finding the A Level course at Callywith: “I came onto the Drama course after studying the subject at GCSE and fell in love with it as quickly as I did then. The wonderful thing about drama though, is that it doesn’t matter whether you’ve been exposed to a certain topic or subject yet, I feel that you create your own piece using themes and subjects and you learn from you own mistakes, personality and passions. Every piece you create, whether it be your own idea or from a text or genre, is your own in your own way. You have the flexibility and talent individually, to work on your own piece and watch as it grows, until it’s one you are proud of and can admire.”

Abbie continued: “The drama space at Callywith is something I also love, we have a beautiful Lecture Theatre with state-of-the-art lighting and sound controls, the entire space is personal in a way and it is all closely linked to a beautiful room perfect for working hard in a comfortable and effective space.

“In comparison to GCSE Drama, the A Level course, is much more mature, has a new syllabus, with more mature themes and views and a close link to writing and reading. It’s intense, but also fun, light-hearted, creative, and you’ll gain memories and experiences that you’ll remember forever, especially with the small numbers of students in my class, perfect for close relationships with your lecturer and fellow pupils. A Level Drama is a great experience, for anyone and everyone with a passion for the subject.”

Fellow student Freathy said: “A Level Drama is a great opportunity to find self-confidence and make new friends, our class provides not only a supportive environment, but also an enjoyable lesson to look forward to. Our Drama space is new and innovative, the mirrors and lighting all help to improve our creative work. We are a collective, not a group of students in a lesson. Our teacher is so lovely and welcoming and is always there if we need anything, whether to do with drama or not. I would say that it is my favourite subject and would recommend it to anyone!”

More information about the A Level Drama and Theatre Studies course can be found here