Content of Classes

Objectives

The classes are structured to increase confidence, improve clarity of speech, fluency and self-expression through drama. Students are encouraged to interact in a lively and creative way. At the end of the series of classes participants will have an understanding of speech and drama and be able to communicate more effectively.

Classes are designed to cover all aspects of Speech and Drama and will include all of the following:

• Speech and Breathing Exercises
• Relaxation Techniques
• Theatre Games
• Mime and Movement to Music (Laban based movement techniques)
• Poetry and Prose Speaking
• Creative Drama and Improvisation
• Scripts and Characterisation
• Story-making and Storytelling
• Process Drama and Devised Performances
• Puppetry
• Public Speaking Skills
• Communication Skills
• Speech and Drama Examination Preparation

Speech and Drama Examinations are held yearly, they are optional and students are very much encouraged to participate. Orla believes that preparation for Speech and Drama Examinations is a valuable learning curve and a tangible achievement which students will always have. An Examiner from the Irish Board of Speech and Drama will exam students in the Mill Community Centre and Leixlip Parish Centre in the second term. The Irish Board cover examinations in the following areas:

• All Grades in Speech and Drama
• Communication Skills
• Public Speaking and Presentation
• Acting Performance
• English as a Second Language

Benefits

The benefits of attending Speech and Drama Classes are vast and include the following:

• Increases Confidence
• Improves Communications and Interpersonal Skills
• Improves Clarity and Fluency of Speech
• Develops the Voice and Personal Awareness
• Encourages Individual Creative Styles
• Provides an Introduction to Drama and love of Literature
• Develops the ability to work with others and promotes a Team Spirit
• Develops Performance Skills
• Great Fun!

Adult Courses

Tuition is available for adults on a private, confidential and one to one basis. If you are looking for assistance with a wedding speech, presentation, interview preparation or would just like to improve your communication and vocal skills a session can be incredibly useful. Practical tips are given to help increase confidence and performance.

For those looking for a longer term course of study a programme can be designed to meet your needs and could include any or all of the following:

• Communication Skills
• Presentation Skills
• Public Speaking Skills
• Drama / Acting Skills
• Audition Pieces
• Improved Speech and Diction
• CV Preparation
• Interview Techniques
• Creative Laban based Movement

* Note the above option is available to groups also.

If you would like to gain a professional drama qualification, Orla offers tuition and
coaching for the Irish Board of Speech and Drama Examinations in the following
areas:

• Public Speaking and Presentation
• Communication
• Acting Performance
• Musical Theatre
• English as a Second Language
• Grade Examinations in Speech and Drama

There are also Diploma Examinations in:

• Diploma of Acting Performance
• Diploma of Associate**
• Diploma of Licentiate (Teaching Diploma)**

**Note students must meet the criteria of eligibility of the Irish Board of Speech and Drama.