Drama and Dance
Drama at King's is great fun but it will also encourage pupils to learn social and group skills, develop their imagination, give extra confidence, improve problem solving and communication skills ... or just help pupils to become that great actor. This is an excellent course for those who wish to study a subject that is both practical and creative.
Pupils who do not want to study Drama as a subject, can join our drama or dance clubs or go along to see one of the varied productions we stage in our superb 306-seat John Moore Theatre. One of the highlights of our annual programme is the spectacular Dance Showcase, in which dancers from all years are encouraged to take part.
Professional dancers often visit King's to lead workshops with various groups and theatre visits are a regular feature of the school calendar. Stratford is conveniently close.
Individual speech and drama lessons are available from friendly and experienced teachers; pupils can take LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) examinations in acting, improvisation, verse and prose, musical theatre or public speaking.
In Years 7 and 8, Drama is part of the curriculum, as is dance in Year 8. The course gives pupils chance to express their feelings and ideas on a range of issues and discover how playwrights make their plays work. Rehearsals after school or occasionally at weekends are an important part of the course, as are regular theatre visits, so pupils must be committed, want to work hard and be supportive of other people.
A-level Drama & Theatre Studies combines an academic study of the theatre with the development of students' own skills. It is ideal for those who have a strong interest in drama and the theatre or have experience or evident talent in one particular area. It is not necessary to have done GCSE Drama to take this course, though it will be valuable. Good English skills are required, an understanding of performance and a high degree of artistic sensitivity. Inevitably, there is additional time out of class, visiting plays and rehearsing.
Theatre Exchange Programme
Once every two years, twelve Sixth Form students have the opportunity to visit Worcester Massachusetts as part of our American Theatre Exchange programme with a partner school in America.
King's Dance Company
King's Dance Company was formed in September 2006, and consisted of a group of 8 dancers who had auditioned and successfully gained places. They rehearse every week and during school holidays to produce complex and theatrical dances.
Lower School Drama
Drama clubs for Years 7,8,9 and 10 meet during the Spring and Summer Terms weekly after school. Theatre games, voice and movement, improvisation, acting and group skills are developed, leading to an annual production.
Year 7 & 8 Dance Clubs