Question 1

How do I choose a stimulus for my devised piece?

Accepted Answer

Choose a stimulus that genuinely interests you and your group, as you will spend weeks exploring it. It should be open-ended enough to allow for multiple interpretations but specific enough to provide a clear starting point. Consider stimuli that have personal, social, or political resonance, as these often lead to more meaningful theatre. For example, a photograph of a protest could inspire a piece about activism, while a poem about loss could lead to a non-linear exploration of grief.

Question 2

What should I include in my devising portfolio?

Accepted Answer

Your portfolio should document the entire creative process, from initial research and idea generation to final evaluation. Include evidence of experimentation (e.g., photos, sketches, script excerpts), reflections on challenges and successes, and analysis of how you applied practitioner techniques. Crucially, explain why you made certain choices and how they contributed to the intended impact on the audience. Avoid simply describing what happened; instead, critically evaluate the effectiveness of your decisions.

Question 3

How can I make my devised piece more original?

Accepted Answer

Originality often comes from combining familiar elements in unexpected ways. Experiment with different theatrical styles (e.g., physical theatre, verbatim, absurdism) or apply a practitioner's method to a contemporary issue. Challenge conventional narrative structures—try a non-linear timeline, multiple perspectives, or a fragmented storyline. Also, draw on personal experiences or unique research that gives your piece a distinctive voice.

Question 4

How do I work effectively in a group during devising?

Accepted Answer

Establish clear roles and responsibilities early on, but remain flexible. Communicate openly and regularly, ensuring everyone's ideas are heard. Use structured activities like 'thought showers' or 'hot-seating' to generate ideas collaboratively. When conflicts arise, focus on the shared goal of creating a cohesive piece and be willing to compromise. Document group discussions in your portfolio to show how collaboration shaped the final work.

Question 5

What are common mistakes in the devising exam?

Accepted Answer

Common mistakes include: (1) Overcomplicating the piece with too many ideas, leading to a lack of focus; (2) Neglecting the portfolio, resulting in superficial reflections; (3) Ignoring the audience's perspective, so the piece fails to communicate clearly; (4) Not applying practitioner techniques meaningfully—simply copying a style without understanding its purpose. To avoid these, regularly step back and assess whether every element serves your dramatic intention.

Question 6

How do I evaluate my own work in the portfolio?

Accepted Answer

Evaluation should be honest and critical. Identify what worked well and why, using specific examples from rehearsals or the performance. Also, discuss what you would change if you were to do it again, and what you learned from the process. Use terminology from the course (e.g., 'tension', 'subtext', 'audience engagement') to frame your analysis. This shows examiners that you can reflect like a professional theatre-maker.

Creating and developing drama and theatre

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Key Terminology

Ready to test yourself?

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