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Posted on March 2nd 2023
Year 11 Experience West End's Longest-Running Play
Year 11 recently went to St Martins Theatre in central London to see The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie.
Year 11 GCSE Drama students have to see live theatre as part of their Component 1 exam (Understanding Drama). They need to watch a live performance and answer a 32-mark live theatre review question within their exam. The question could be on performing, costume, lighting or sound, for example, so students have to study every aspect of the play.
The Mousetrap is the longest running show to date and is this year celebrating its 70th anniversary of being in London's West End. It is a murder mystery (whodunnit), where the audience are asked to keep a secret as it has a large plot-twist.
“The students really enjoyed the experience and I've already had some of them ask for recommendations for plays to go to during the half-term,” said Ms Garner. “By seeing live performances, the students will have a visual expectation of how theatre can be presented.”
Although the aim was to watch it and study for their exam, it can also be a useful tool for preparing them for their final GCSE performance, said Ms Garner. “By watching the show, they can better understand how to present themselves on stage, as the show acts as a live demonstration. It was also an important tool to inspire the students to pursue acting after completing their GCSEs.