Higher Drama

The paper since 2025/26

The Higher Drama paper was revised from session 2025/26. A section was removed, the paper was shortened, and the performance analysis requirements were revised. A prescribed text list also returned for Section 1.

The paper now lasts 2 hours and is worth 40 marks. Section 1 is Theatre production: text in context. You answer one question from six, as an actor, director or designer, on a text from the prescribed list. Section 2 is Performance analysis. You answer one question from two on a professional production you have seen live, streamed or recorded. It must use a different text from Section 1.

In 2027 the paper is on Wednesday 5 May, from 1pm to 3pm.

The performance

The performance is worth 60 marks. Preparation for performance is worth 10 and covers your research and concept. The performance itself is worth 50.

Actors perform two interactive roles from different plays, in front of a live audience. Directors receive an extract in advance and direct part of it in a 30-minute rehearsal with the visiting assessor. Designers present a set design, worth 30, plus one more production role worth 20. That role can be lighting, sound, props, costume, or make-up and hair.

What the 2026 course report found

Many candidates knew their prescribed text well and quoted it accurately. Section 2 answers were often strong at choosing relevant moments from the production.

Weaker answers used too little theatrical terminology. Few offered sophisticated insight into context. Some used voice, movement and design terms inaccurately.

In the performance, most work showed good textual and sub-textual understanding. Some acting pieces ran too long or too short. A few designers spent too much effort on their additional role and too little on the set.

The report asked candidates to name the venue, director and year of the production in Section 2. It also recommended published, full-length texts that suit Higher level.

In 2026 an A needed 70 out of 100, a B 60 and a C 50.

Preparing with past papers

Past papers from before 2025/26 use a different structure, so check which questions still fit. The September 2026 specimen paper shows the current format.

Use the marking instructions to see how markers credit holistic quality over quantity. A focused answer with precise terminology scores better than a long list of points.