Chapter 20
The Grand Finale
This is a fun attempt to put together all that you have learnt into one project. This project can be done both individually or in a group with the help of your friends.
1. Script
Write a simple conversation between two or three characters, based on one emotion. Make sure the conversation mainly has
the emotion you have chosen. Example: emotion chosen is anger. The main character could be short tempered or two friends
could be discussing about how someone’s anger cancause a lot of problem.
|
|
|
|
This activity also gives you a simple trick to switch to puppetry, if you decide not to perform the play. Present it to your class and discuss.
2. Make-up and costume
Design the make-up and costume for the characters in your script as you did in ACT 2.
|
 |
3. Stage Design
Use the cardboard stage model to plan the set and props on stage. Use this to plan your final performance in class, where you set up the stage and act out the script with your friends.
|
 |
4. Switch to Puppetry
Cut out the outline of your costume design picture and paste a stick on one end. Do this for all your characters. The stick puppets are ready! Now, you can use the same stage model as your puppetry frame!
|
 |
Discussion and Feedback: After presenting or performing in front of your class, discuss each aspect of your workers in detail. This is very important for every artiste.
1. Script — Did they understand the story? Was the conflict and resolution clear?
2. Costume and make-up — Was it neat? Does it add to the character or disturb the performance?
3. Stage — Were the design and props well used?
4. What could have made the over-all show better?
Take both positive and negative feedback with the same approach. It will only help you do better next time, as you will not repeat the same mistakes.
You have just learnt the basic steps of the process of how a theatrical performance takes shape. But there is more! Next you will look into more detailed steps of how to improve on your script and performances to make it look professional. It will definitely be more exciting and engaging than how it has been.
Feel free to write and create more scripts and small shows either with friends or with puppets, whenever you are free. You can use a story you read, a movie you
watched or imagine something new all by yourself.
As the stanza from Natyashastra in the beginning of this section says, theatre will not only help you learn about the performing arts but also build the crucial life skills you will need in future. So, make use of this wonderful art to explore yourselves. Try out all new ideas confidently as there is no wrong answer here! While you create new stories and present them, remember — have FUN!
Happy creating till we meet again!
|