Still image is used to create tension. It can be used at the beginning, middle or at the end of a performance. Still image is when a particular action which is frozen or paused and focused in on a significant time it the drama to mark the moment. The silence created by the still image can create great tension within the audience. When we used still image, certain sections of the group froze so that the audience could concentrate on one part of the performance using cross cutting. It was effective because it helped to pin-point the pinnacle of the drama.
Narration is adding commentary to go with a sequence of actions. This can be used to great affect though emphasis and annunciation. We used narration in many of our performances, particularly from poetry. Narration was effective because the poems we used were depressing and reflected the morbid atmosphere we were trying to create.
Hot-seating is used to develop a characters role and build up additional information about a character. It was useful to be able to understand the other character and the reasons why they may behave and react differently.
Cross-cutting is having two different scenes going on at the same time and switching from one to another. We used cross cutting when during our scenes in the factory. It was effective because although we were working as one big machine, everyone had their own minds and personalities and still were in different social groups.
Forum theatre is when a drama is enacted by the whole group, but it gives the opportunity for the cast to walk out and observe the drama and replace other members’ roles. We used forum theatre for our work as machines in factories and on rationing queues. The work on forum theatre was useful because it gave me the chance to see how powerful the work of a whole group could be and learn from other peoples actions.
Marking the moment is when the climax of the drama is highlighted to show to the audience the importance of this moment. Marking the moment is normally used when a character changes or when an important message of the drama is expressed. The moment could be marked by the atmosphere changing, for example the lighting, or thought tracking or a freeze frame taking place. Making the moment is useful because it can make messages you are trying to convey to the audience clearer.
Role-play is when you pretend to be another individual by placing yourself in their circumstances. Role play was useful because it helped me develop the characters that I was playing and to understand how they felt and behaved in contrast between then and now.
Catherine Carncross 10C
