Taking Stage has been written for students studying drama in Years 10, 11 and 12 and focuses on the area of performance. It has direct relevance for students taking the NSW HSC Drama Exam. Taking Stage takes the mystery out of stagecraft, leading the reader through the practical skills of performing on stage and explaining them simply and clearly. Many students develop an interest in drama during their final years at school. Some embrace the subject for the first time in year 10 or 11. Often it is assumed that they are familiar with the basic techniques and approaches of performance when in fact they are not. This text offers students a basic framework to start from.