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For this assignment, you must critique a LIVE THEATRE performance – you may opt to view a RECORDING of a live production but you may not see a movie adaptation. This live, theatrical performance must be scriipted (no improv) and must have designers. You may not see a high school production. There are a lot of things on YouTube, but many are not professional productions. Please check in with me if you have questions about what an acceptable production is or if you would like to confirm that the production you choose works for this paper.
All papers must:
be typewritten using a standard 12 pt. font (Times New Roman or Arial) or 11pt Calibri
be double spaced
be 3-4 pages
have correct spelling/grammar/sentence mechanics
be in standard essay format (not merely a list with numbered bullet points)
have a citation (including a url if watched online) for the production you watched
over every main area below (use the questions to help you organize your thoughts if necessary)
Reminder: Give clear, specific examples to support your opinions and point of view. When you state an opinion, give supporting details: “for example…” Paint a vivid picture for the reader.
Introduction: Start with something snappy to hook the reader in. Then summarize the play’s story in a short paragraph (this will not be the main point of the paper, I’m far more interested in your critique of the performance not the summary of the play): _____________________ by __________________________ is about______________. Tell something about the history of the play text and the playwright, or about past productions.
Thesis of paper: Summarize your overall impression of production: _________Theatre’s production is/isn’t worth seeing because _______
Critique the cast members as an ensemble: In general, could you see and hear the actors? Did the actors work as a team to tell the story? Were the actors, in general, believable, focused, in character, and engaging? Give examples.
Choose one main actor to critique: Did this actor engage you for the entire play? How? Was the actor focused, in the moment, and emotionally inside the character? Technically, did this actor move and speak well? Seem confident of his/her lines? Vigorously drive the play forward or drag it down? Did the actor make you care about, or be interested in, the character? Give examples.
Critique the spectacle and technical aspects of the production: Describe stage configuration used. How effective was it? Critique the physical set, lights, costumes, sound (music, sound effects, etc.), props, and any special effects. Did all these areas together help or hinder the dramatic action of the characters? Give examples.
Analyze and discuss the historical elements of this play. What era did it take place in? What era was it written in? Was it updated or translated to fit into a different era? If the play is modern, do you see any connections in themes or ideas to another era? Cite all outside sources.
Discuss the theatre’s goal in producing the play. What type of audience did the producers of the play have in mind for this play? Do you feel that you were their ideal audience? How do you think that you match or differ from the company’s perceived audience? Where do you think this production would be the most successful
Conclusion: Restate your thesis in different words: Summarize why this particular production is/isn’t worth seeing. Was it powerful? Moving? Gripping? Stupid and pointless? Long and boring? Educational? Disturbing? Entertaining?
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