Introduction
The IB Theatre Solo Theatre Piece (HL only) requires you to research a theatre theorist and apply their principles in a 6–8 minute performance. Many students excel at research but struggle to translate theory into practice, or they create a strong performance but fail to show how it connects to their research. Examiners are looking for clear evidence that your performance choices grow directly from your study of the theorist.
This guide explains how to connect research and practice in your Solo Theatre Piece so that your performance and reflections are examiner-ready.
Quick Start Checklist
- Choose a theorist with clear, practical methods.
- Research both their principles and cultural context.
- Test conventions in rehearsal through experimentation.
- Reflect on how research shaped performance choices.
- Show evidence of connection in your report and documentation.
Why Connecting Research and Practice Matters
The Solo Piece counts for 35% of the HL grade, and examiners expect you to:
- Demonstrate in-depth research into your theorist.
- Apply principles directly in performance.
- Reflect on challenges of turning theory into practice.
- Show growth as both a scholar and theatre-maker.
Strong connections prove your process was intentional and academically grounded.
How to Connect Research and Practice
1. Choose a Research-Ready Theorist
Pick someone with accessible writings and documented methods. Examples:
- Stanislavski: Objectives, given circumstances, emotional truth.
- Alienation, placards, episodic structure.
