Introduction
The IB Theatre Solo Theatre Piece (HL only) is worth 35% of your HL grade and is one of the most challenging tasks in the course. It requires you to research a theatre theorist, apply their principles in a 6–8 minute performance, and reflect critically on your process in a written report. Achieving a level 7 means excelling in all three areas: research, performance, and reflection.
This guide will show you how to aim for a level 7 in the IB Theatre Solo Theatre Piece by breaking down key strategies that align with IB expectations.
Quick Start Checklist
- Choose a theorist with clear and practical methods.
- Apply 2–3 key principles intentionally in your performance.
- Rehearse with experimentation, not just repetition.
- Reflect critically on both successes and challenges.
- Present a polished, confident performance within time limits.
What Examiners Look For
To achieve the highest marks, examiners expect to see that you:
- Research deeply into your chosen theorist, including context and principles.
- Apply theory clearly in your performance through practitioner conventions.
- Reflect critically on challenges, discoveries, and audience impact.
- Perform confidently with clarity, control, and intentionality.
- Communicate meaningfully with your audience, shaped by theory.
Strategies to Aim for a Level 7
1. Choose Your Theorist Wisely
Select someone with well-documented, performance-based principles (e.g., Brecht, Artaud, Stanislavski, Grotowski). Make sure their methods inspire you creatively.
