House of Bernarda Alba: performance conventions

Performance Conventions

General Conventions

‘The House of Bernarda Alba’ consistently uses symbolism for dramatic effect. This includes the colours of the characters’ clothing, elements such as the cane and the horse and contextual symbols like mourning, heat and dust.
There’s a strong focus on off-stage action, with critical events like Pepe’s interactions and Adela’s suicide happening off-stage. This allows focus on character reactions while maintaining dramatic tension.
Silence and speech are used effectively to demonstrate the oppressive household environment. Bernarda’s authority often silences others, while rumours and gossip circulate within the private sphere.

Role of Bernarda

Bernarda’s character embodies tyranny and authority. Her powerful presence is often expressed through physical actions such as effectively utilizing the stage and directing other characters.
Her dominance is enforced by her loud voice, firm posture, and strict rules, leaving other characters in silent submission or secretive rebellion.

Role of Adela

Adela, the youngest daughter, contrasts Bernarda through her defiance and desire for freedom. This is conveyed through her passionate speech, colourful attire, and rebellious actions.
Her character is unfolded through a series of emotional outbursts, physical restlessness, and final act of rebellion. These require a nuanced portrayal to reflect her desperation and resistance.

Other Characters

The distinct personalities and attitudes of each sister and the housemaid need to be carefully portrayed to show the varying impacts of Bernarda’s repression.
Use of body language to convey the unsaid – nervousness, desire, jealousy and rebellion could be seen in characters’ physical interactions.

Abstract Elements

Elements such as lighting and sound effects play a crucial role in creating the oppressive atmosphere, highlighting tension, and signaling dramatic shifts.

Understanding these conventions can greatly enhance the inter-character dynamics and overall dramatic effect when staging ‘The House of Bernarda Alba’.