Question 1

What is NCEA AS 91216 about?

Accepted Answer

This standard asks you to perform using advanced techniques from a specific drama or theatre style (like Greek theatre, Commedia dell'Arte, or Epic theatre). You need to show you understand the historical conventions and special skills of that style, and use them convincingly in your actual performance to tell the story and create meaning.

Question 2

What do students need to do for AS 91216?

Accepted Answer

1. Choose a specific drama or theatre form (such as Greek theatre, Commedia dell'Arte, Epic theatre, Physical theatre, or another listed style) and research its historical conventions and performance techniques 2. Demonstrate physical and stylistic skills that match that form in your performance—for example, using masks and stock characters for Commedia, heightened movement and chorus work for Greek theatre, or alienation techniques for Epic theatre 3. Show control and purpose in how you use these complex skills to support the character, relationships, and situation you're portraying 4. Provide a brief written statement explaining your choice of form, how you're using its techniques, and what you're trying to communicate through your performance

Question 3

What's the difference between Achieved, Merit, and Excellence for AS 91216?

Accepted Answer

Achieved: You use the complex performance skills of your chosen theatre form in a way that is recognisable and supports your dramatic intention. Merit: You skilfully control and sustain the complex performance skills throughout your performance with clear purpose, consistently applying techniques that match your chosen form. Excellence: You effectively use the complex performance skills to enhance and deepen your performance, capturing the essence of your chosen form with real impact and conviction.

Question 4

What mistakes do students typically make in AS 91216?

Accepted Answer

1. Not doing enough research on the specific theatre form or period chosen—students sometimes guess at conventions rather than learning what actually defines that style 2. Showing the performance skills weakly or inconsistently—applying techniques in only parts of the performance rather than sustaining them throughout 3. Not providing clear written support explaining which techniques you're using and why—the assessor needs you to show you understand the form, not just perform it

Complex performance skills

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