Question 1: Identify and describe a moment in a play where a character's dialogue reveals their true feelings. Explain how this technique helps develop the character.

Answer: A student might describe a scene where a character says one thing but their tone or body language suggests the opposite. This reveals their inner feelings and adds depth to the character, helping the audience understand their true emotions.

Question 2: Explain the importance of stage directions in a script. Provide an example of how a stage direction can influence a performance.

Answer: Stage directions guide actors on movement, tone, and positioning. For example, a stage direction like 'crosses to the window' can create a sense of secrecy or longing, influencing how the scene is performed.

Question 3: Choose a character from a play you have studied. Describe their primary motivation and how it drives their actions throughout the text.

Answer: For example, a character might be motivated by revenge, leading them to make decisions that escalate conflict. Their motivation shapes their behavior and influences the plot's development.

Question 4: Describe a theatrical technique such as monologue or flashback. How does this technique help convey a character's internal thoughts or backstory?

Answer: A monologue allows a character to speak directly to the audience, revealing their inner thoughts. A flashback provides background information, helping the audience understand past events that influence current actions.

Question 5: Imagine you are directing a scene where two characters have a disagreement. Describe how you might use body language and positioning to show tension between them.

Answer: Actors could stand with closed body language, avoid eye contact, or turn away from each other to show discomfort and conflict. Positioning them at opposite ends of the stage can also emphasize distance and disagreement.

Question 6: Sketch a simple stage layout for a scene where a character is hiding behind a curtain. Indicate the position of the character, the curtain, and the audience’s view.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a stage with a curtain on one side, a character peeking from behind it, and an implied audience viewpoint. The sketch should clearly mark the curtain's position and the character's hiding spot.

Question 7: Explain how the use of lighting can affect the mood of a scene. Provide an example of a lighting choice and its emotional impact.

Answer: Lighting can create a mood; for example, dim, blue lighting can evoke sadness or mystery, while bright, warm light can create a cheerful atmosphere. An example is using red lighting during a tense moment to heighten suspense.

Question 8: Identify a key theme in a play you have studied. Describe how the playwright explores this theme through dialogue or action.

Answer: For instance, in a play about friendship, the playwright might show characters supporting each other during conflicts, highlighting the importance of loyalty and trust through their interactions.

Question 9: Discuss how a character's costume can reveal their personality or role within a play. Give an example based on a character type (e.g., hero, villain, comic relief).

Answer: Costumes often symbolize traits; a villain might wear dark, intimidating clothing, while a hero's costume could be bright and heroic. For example, a clown's exaggerated outfit signals comedic intent and lightheartedness.

Question 10: Reflect on a dramatic moment in a play that made you feel surprised or shocked. Describe what happened and why it evoked that emotion.

Answer: A student might describe a sudden plot twist, such as a character revealing a secret or an unexpected death, which creates surprise or shock due to its unpredictability.