200 Plays for GCSE and A-Level Performance: A Drama Teacher's Guide

In this review of 200 Plays for GCSE and A-Level Performance, the bottom line is simple: this is a practical, curriculum-focused reference for drama teachers seeking ready stage material for 15 to 18-year-olds. The book's main strength is its breadth - it suggests 200 plays and pairs that selection with brief, usable guidance on selection and realisation, so teachers can quickly choose pieces that meet exam requirements while engaging diverse classes. For educators who need a compact, easy-to-navigate resource, this guide earns its place on the shelf.

Key Features

• Wide selection: The guide lists 200 plays suitable for GCSE and A-Level students, offering a broad pool of material to match varying abilities.
• Curriculum-aware advice: Chapters explain how to choose plays that meet exam and syllabus requirements so selections are classroom-appropriate.
• Practical staging tips: The book provides clear, usable advice on realisation and staging so teachers can move from page to performance.
• Accessible structure: Two-part layout with eight short chapters in Part 1 makes it quick to read and reference during planning.
• Discovery of new work: It introduces plays and playwrights teachers may not already know, expanding repertoire options for students.

Who It's For

The guide is aimed primarily at secondary school drama teachers and theatre educators working with 15 to 18-year-olds who need material that aligns with GCSE and A-Level performance objectives. It works well for department heads selecting repertoire and for individual teachers planning termly shows or assessment pieces.

Teachers looking for full scripts, in-depth textual analysis, or complete lesson plans will need to supplement this guide; it is a curated reference and staging primer rather than a script anthology or a step-by-step curriculum pack.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comprehensive list of suitable plays gives quick options across ability levels and exam needs.
• Focused chapters on selection and realisation help translate choices into practical classroom work.
• Compact, teacher-friendly format that is easy to consult during planning.

Cons

• Not a source of full scripts or extended lesson plans, so additional materials are required for rehearsals.

Specifications

Title	200 Plays for GCSE and A-Level Performance: A Drama Teacher's Guide
Author / Brand	Jason Hanlan
Target age range	15 - 18-year-olds
Structure	Two parts; Part 1 has 8 chapters, Part 2 lists plays
Primary use	Selection and staging guidance for school performance
Audience	Drama teachers and theatre educators

Our Verdict

For drama teachers who need a concise, curriculum-conscious guide to performance material, this book is a practical, good-value resource. Its 200-play selection and short, focused chapters make it easy to find pieces that meet exam criteria while offering staging pointers. It is best used alongside scripts and classroom resources, but as a reference it streamlines repertoire choices and sparks new discoveries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book include full play scripts?
No. It is a guide that lists and recommends plays with selection and staging advice rather than providing full texts.

Is it suitable for GCSE and A-Level planning?
Yes. The selections and guidance are written specifically to support the requirements and age range for 15 to 18-year-old students.

Will it help with staging and realisation?
Yes. Part 1 contains practical advice on selection and realisation to help teachers translate chosen material into performance.