Introduction
The IB Theatre Solo Theatre Piece (HL only) requires more than a polished performance. Examiners also assess your ability to write analytically about your process, showing how research, theory, and practice connect. Too often, students fall into the trap of simply describing rehearsals instead of analyzing them. Analytical writing demonstrates depth, critical thinking, and intentionality—all essential for top marks.
This guide will show you how to write analytically about your Solo Theatre Piece in your supporting report and reflections.
Quick Start Checklist
- Explain why you made creative choices, not just what you did.
- Link every choice to your theorist’s principles.
- Use specific rehearsal examples to support analysis.
- Evaluate successes and challenges critically.
- Write clearly and concisely for examiners.
Why Analytical Writing Matters
The Solo Piece counts for 35% of the HL grade, and analytical writing shows that you:
- Understood your theorist’s principles in depth.
- Applied theory intentionally in performance.
- Reflected critically on successes and struggles.
- Connected audience impact to creative decisions.
Examiners reward students who move beyond description to thoughtful, theory-based analysis.
How to Write Analytically
1. Use the “What, Why, How” Method
Instead of:
- “I performed my piece with exaggerated gestures.”
Write analytically: - “I used exaggerated gestures to apply Artaud’s principle of sensory intensity. This amplified audience discomfort and emphasized the piece’s theme of chaos.”
2. Link Choices to Theory
Every performance decision should connect back to your chosen theorist’s principles. Example:
- “Brecht’s alienation effect informed my use of placards, which prevented emotional identification and encouraged critical reflection.”
3. Provide Evidence from Rehearsals
Support your analysis with concrete moments:
- What experiments did you try?
- Which approaches worked or failed?
- How did you adapt based on feedback?
4. Evaluate Critically
Don’t just celebrate successes. Reflect on challenges, surprises, and unexpected outcomes. Example:
- “While my use of narration supported Brechtian distancing, it initially confused the audience. Adjusting pacing made the meaning clearer.”
5. Connect to Audience Impact
Analyze how theory influenced audience interpretation. Did they respond as intended? Did feedback reveal new insights?
Tips for Success
- Be concise. Avoid unnecessary description. Focus on analysis.
- Use active voice. Write clearly: “I applied Brecht’s techniques to…”
- Stay reflective. Show personal growth as a performer.
- Integrate visuals. Use sketches or diagrams where allowed to support your points.
- Think like an examiner. Make your analysis easy to follow and clearly linked to criteria.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Writing descriptive rehearsal logs instead of analysis.
- Forgetting to link choices to theory.
- Overgeneralizing with vague statements like “It worked well.”
- Ignoring audience feedback in reflections.
- Waiting until the end to write everything.
RevisionDojo Call to Action
Analytical writing is where your Solo Theatre Piece truly shines for examiners. At RevisionDojo, we help students structure their reports, connect theory to practice, and reflect critically with examiner-focused clarity. With our expert support, you’ll write analytically and achieve top marks in your HL assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I make sure my writing is analytical, not descriptive?
Ask Why? How? So what? after every sentence. This keeps your writing reflective rather than narrative.
2. Do I need to include both successes and failures in my analysis?
Yes. Examiners value honesty and critical evaluation. Reflecting on failures shows depth.
3. Should I use quotes from my theorist in my writing?
Yes, but sparingly. Quotes can support your analysis, but your own reflection should be central.
Conclusion
Writing analytically about your IB Theatre Solo Piece ensures examiners see the depth of your process. By linking theory to practice, reflecting critically on successes and challenges, and analyzing audience impact, you’ll create a portfolio that demonstrates intentionality and growth. With RevisionDojo’s expert guidance, you’ll write analytically with confidence and maximize your marks.
