Creative Response 2014Drama Performance Guidelines

Elements of Drama

Role & character

Focus

Tension

Time

Place

Situation

Space

Structure

Language

Sound

Movement

Rhythm

Moment

Atmosphere

Symbols

All work together to create:

Dramatic Meaning

Which results in:

Audience Engagement

http://www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/syllabus_sc/pdf_doc/drama_710_syllabus.pdf

What Are We Looking For?

Length: 3-5 minutes. Ish.

What is your narrative?

Authenticity of voice, body language & costume

Use of space & set (don’t just use tables and chairs)

Mastery of the elements of drama

Expand our understanding of the themes & issues highlighted in your play

Close is not good enough, but it’s better than nothing.

Narrative

Your story requires tension.

Where is the focus?

“Can I just stage part of the script?” Well, technically yes, but…

Consider Voice

Variety of intonations

Variety of volumes

Variety of paces

Authenticity of emotion, accent, etc.

Consider Posture

Approaching/warm Leaning forward in an attentive manner

Withdrawn/cold Drawing back or turning away

Proud/conceited Expanded chest, straight back, head held high &

raised shoulders

Sad/submissive Head/eyes downcast, body slumped, shoulders

drooping, chest sunken

Consider Gesture

Hands up – surrender, peace

Head nod – agreement, attentive listening, excitement

Head shake – disagreement, disapproval

Hand clap – agreement, excitement

Finger point – directions, accusations

Hand covering mouth – lying

Hand covering face – afraid

Hands clenched – frustration

Hands fiddling – nervous

Fists clenched – angry

Nail-biting - insecure

Consider Costuming & Setting

What space will you use & how?

What props do you need? (minimal is best)

What clothing do you need?

Rationale

Mention your use of dramatic elements

Discuss use of symbolism

Demonstrate you were aware of your dramatic choices, and each choice had an impact

Any Questions?Workshop Your Ideas