Question 1: Identify a character from a script you have studied. Describe their main motivation and explain how this influences their actions in the scene.

Answer: The main motivation of the character (e.g., seeking revenge, wanting acceptance, or protecting a loved one) drives their behaviour and decisions. For example, if the character's motivation is to seek justice, they may confront others or take risks to achieve their goal. Their actions on stage are shaped by this inner drive, revealing their personality and purpose.

Question 2: Choose a scene where two characters interact. Describe the relationship between these characters and how it affects their dialogue and stage positioning.

Answer: The relationship (e.g., friends, rivals, family members) influences how characters speak to each other—friendly or hostile tones—and their physical proximity. For instance, close friends may stand nearer and use informal language, while rivals might keep distance and use confrontational gestures. Stage positioning can reflect relationship dynamics, such as positioning characters facing each other or turning away.

Question 3: Perform a short improvisation of a scene where your character's motivation is challenged. Focus on expressing their inner feelings through voice and body language.

Answer: In the improvisation, emphasize your character's motivation by using a tone of voice that reflects their emotional state—e.g., tense, determined, or conflicted. Use body language such as clenched fists, pacing, or defensive postures to convey inner turmoil or resolve. This demonstrates understanding of your character's motivation and enhances performance.

Question 4: Analyze how a character’s dialogue reveals their relationship with another character. Provide specific examples from the script.

Answer: Dialogue can reveal relationships through tone, choice of words, and topics discussed. For example, a character who uses formal language and avoids eye contact may have a distant or formal relationship, while one who uses slang and touches the other may have a close friendship. Specific examples include lines like ‘I trust you’ indicating closeness or ‘Don’t talk to me’ indicating tension.

Question 5: Draw a simple diagram to show your character’s relationship with at least two other characters. Label the relationships and key traits.

Answer: Students should draw a diagram (such as a circle or diagrammatic map) with their character in the center, connected by lines to other characters. Labels should describe the relationship (e.g., sibling, rival, mentor), with notes on traits like trust, conflict, or affection. This visual helps clarify character dynamics.

Question 6: Identify a moment in the script where a character's motivation causes a conflict. Describe how this conflict could be expressed physically on stage.

Answer: A character's motivation might lead to conflict if it clashes with another's goals. For example, a character wanting to protect a secret might become defensive. Physically, this can be shown through tense posture, clenched fists, or stepping back. Facial expressions like frowning or narrowed eyes can also highlight internal tension.

Question 7: Describe how you would use facial expressions and gestures to show a character's changing relationships during a scene.

Answer: Facial expressions such as smiling, frowning, or eye contact can indicate warmth, distrust, or hostility. Gestures like open arms suggest friendliness, while crossed arms show defensiveness. As relationships change, these non-verbal cues should shift accordingly—for example, moving from a hesitant hug to pulling away signifies a change from closeness to distance.

Question 8: Select a character and write a brief monologue expressing their true feelings about a key relationship in the script.

Answer: The monologue should reveal the character’s inner thoughts and feelings, using dramatic language and emotional tone. For example, a character might say, ‘I pretend everything’s fine, but inside I’m hurt and confused about how we’ve grown apart.’ This provides insight into their emotional state and relationship dynamics.

Question 9: Explain how understanding a character’s motivation and relationships can help you develop your acting performance.

Answer: Knowing a character’s motivation and relationships allows you to make choices about voice, movement, and expressions that are authentic and consistent. It helps you understand why your character behaves a certain way, making your portrayal more convincing and engaging for the audience.

Question 10: Describe a scenario where your character’s motivation might change during the play. How would this affect their interactions with others?

Answer: A character’s motivation might change due to events or new information—for example, turning from seeking revenge to forgiveness. This shift would affect interactions by making the character more open, trusting, or conflicted, which could be shown through changes in tone, body language, and stage positioning, leading to new dynamics with other characters.