One Man Two Guvnors. Visual & Performing Arts Essay

play critique
Each paper will be graded in four areas. Content: Does the
content of the paper adhere to the requirements of the assignment, is the critique
presented an in depth response to the production attended. Language: Is the student
using terms discussed in class and found in their assigned reading - is the student using
terminology correctly. Is the student using language actively to enhance their paper
academically and support their opinions/arguments? Structure: Does the critique
have structure – MLA format, thesis statement, supporting paragraphs and a
conclusion. Purpose: Does the student write with purpose – meaning does the student
use all aspects of their experience and knowledge to support their
ideas/opinions/arguments through writing.
The Professor will break down the grading into these 4 areas equally and detail to the
student their score in each area.
Assignment/Content Requirements: Each student must attend 2 plays. A
production from the UST drama department and production at one of Houston’s
Professional Theatre’s (see fall performance schedule of Houston’s professional theatres
– provided in email/blackboard). After attending that production the student must
write a critique of that production. The critique must include one or all of the following
topics.
Acting: Examine the characters created by the actors based on the content of the story.
For example, think of the time period the story, the social aspects of the story within
that time period (gender, race, religion, relationships, economic status, etc) and how
these elements effect an actor’s portrayal of the character. Think of the setting of the
story (Chicago, London, etc.) and how this would affect choices of character creation.
Think about the physical and vocal choices that the actor makes – are they maintained
throughout the entire show, if they change do they change for a reason. Look at the how
the actors connect to their fellow actors on stage – Do you believe the relationship?
Overall is the actors portrayal of that character believable and do their choices enhance
the story and help connect that story to the audience.
Design: Look at different areas of design – Set, Costume, Makeup, Props, Lighting, and
Sound – how do they support and enhance the story – such as- are the design choices
accurate to the time period and setting of the play? Are their symbolic elements to the
design? Is the design realistic, representational, expressionistic etc…Do these stylistic
choices enhance or distract from the story? Do the design choices enhance
characterization? Do the design choices support the story? Do the design choices help
develop the story?
Social Context: What are the different social issues/ideas addressed in the play (race,
gender, sex, censorship, economic status – etc.)? Does the play have one perspective on
the social issues/ideas it addresses? Are the perspectives of the play bias/one sided,
balanced, or dated? Does the production do a good job of presenting the social context
of the play in a way that connects to the audience? Does the play push the boundaries of
social convention in bringing up various topics – if so is it effective or too much for the
audience?
The student may choose to write their paper on all three of these topics or choose to
focus on just one of the topics. If focusing one topic it is wise to reference the other two
topics for added depth to the critique.