Research & Backstory
This term refers to the information a character has about their past that isn't explicitly stated in the script.
What is backstory?
This is the character's main goal or what they want to achieve in a scene.
What is their objective?
This is the term for a character's relationship to another character.
What is their relationship?
Creating a character timeline can help an actor do what?
To understand the chronological development of the character's life and key events.
A character's motivation can be categorized as either internal or what?
What is external?
An actor's "blocking" refers to this.
What are their movements and positions on stage?
This type of research involves studying the time period, social norms, and historical events relevant to the character's life.
What is historical research?
An actor might use this technique, which involves drawing on a personal experience, to connect with a character's emotion.
What is emotional recall or sense memory?
What is the purpose of "active listening" in a scene?
To fully react and respond to what your scene partner is doing and saying in the moment, rather than just waiting for your turn to speak.
A character's subtext is defined as this.
What is the unspoken meaning, thoughts, and intentions behind a character's words?
What is a character's "arc," and why is it important to their emotional journey?
A character's arc is the journey or transformation they undergo throughout a story, from beginning to end. It's important because it shows their growth and development.
Explain the concept of "endowment" in a scene.
To fully react and respond to what your scene partner is doing and saying in the moment, rather than just waiting for your turn to speak.
What is the difference between a character's given circumstances and their backstory?
A character's given circumstances are the facts provided in the script
What's the difference between a character's "objective" and their "super-objective?"
An objective is what a character wants in a specific scene, while their super-objective is their overarching desire or goal for the entire play or story.
How does understanding the "power dynamic" between characters affect a scene?
The power dynamic dictates how characters interact, negotiate, and respond to one another, influencing their dialogue, actions, and overall behavior in a scene.