Performance Review

To continue to promote a focus on the production aspect of the texts we read, you must either attend a local performance or watch a recorded one approved by me in advance. After the performance you will write a review and submit a printed out copy to me. In this assignment, you will objectively analyze the relative success or failure of the production you view. The focus of the review is not on the story or plot of the play itself, but how well that story is portrayed through the given performance. You are taking on the role of observer and critic. You may turn in your review any time throughout the semester until November 17. The review essay must be in MLA format, typed, double-spaced, and consist of 750 to 900 words.

Fall performance list:

·       TTU Department of Theatre and Dance – http://www.depts.ttu.edu/theatreanddance/

o   Mark Hollman’s Urinetown. Oct 13-16 & 20-23.

o   Maria Irene Fornes’ Mud: A Play in 17 Scenes. Oct 31- Nov 6.

·       Lubbock Community Theatre – http://www.lubbockcommunitytheatre.org/

o   Robert Harling’s Steel Magnolias. Sep 9-11, 16-18, 23-25.

o   Tom Dudzick’s Over the Tavern. Oct 21-23, 28-30; Nov 4-6.

·       Any of the full length play performance videos on the “Theatre in Video” database available through TTU library – http://ttu.ativ.alexanderstreet.com.lib-e2.lib.ttu.edu/

    Attending the Performance:

    Attend the play with an open mind.

• Note any deviations from your concept of a "standard" production and try to find a good explanation for that deviation. Is the director trying to say something new or different? Were you shown new insights by the director's production?
• Consider the following:
• Why the choice of costumes, and why the set design?
• How did the actors deliver their lines--seriously, comically, realistically, formally? Were there any significant actions or gestures that contributed to the play's meaning?
• Were any special effects utilized, including lighting, sounds, audience participation, machinery, etc. 
• If you are familiar with the script, were any significant cuts made?

After the performance, write down the details you recall. You'll need this information for your paper in order to support your argument. 

         Consider the following practical aspects:

• What kind of stage does the director have at his disposal? What kinds of restrictions does the stage impose on the director concerning movement and set design?
• Are the actors professionals, amateurs, or students? What restrictions does this impose on the director? Are the actors capable of dealing with the script's requirements? 

      Guidelines for the Written Review:

    

      The Introduction-- should include the title of the play, the name of the playwright, the director, the place and date of the performance attended, and the name of the production company. Also include a thesis statement describing your position on the relative success or failure of the production. Focus your argument on one or two major concerns of the production rather than trying to discuss the entire play. Include a thematic summary (not a plot summary) of the play.

    

      The Body-- In the body of the paper you will discuss and expand upon the elements of the play you described in your introduction. Describe physical aspects of what you saw performed. Focus on particular scenes or performances that contribute to your overall assessment of the production. Evaluate, interpret, and analyze the important details of the play you described. You may attack as well as commend the performance, as long as you make sure to support your positions either way with details from the production. 

    

      The Conclusion-- Concisely remind the reader of your overall position on this play, without simply rewriting your thesis. Don't add any new significant material here, but you may include closing remarks about the play that push your argument further than you did in the body of the paper.