Oh What a Lovely War: Performers' vocal interpretation of character (accent, volume, pitch, timing, pace, intonation, phrasing, emotional range, delivery of lines)

Oh What a Lovely War: Performers’ vocal interpretation of character (accent, volume, pitch, timing, pace, intonation, phrasing, emotional range, delivery of lines)

Vocal Interpretation of Character

Accent

  • Performers use a variety of regional accents to depict the diversity and widespread reach of World War I. Accents differentiate the characters representing various nations.
  • Upper-class accents are often used by the generals and politicians, signifying their authority and social status.

Volume and Pitch

  • Volume and pitch are used to portray different emotional states and social dynamics. For example, louder volumes and higher pitches are used in battle scenes to depict panic and chaos.
  • Characters in superior positions often use a louder volume, exerting dominance and command.

Timing and Pace

  • Varying the timing and pace of lines can create tension, sense of urgency or calm in different scenes.
  • Hasty dialogue during war conferences symbolises the rushed decisions made by those in power, contributing to the senselessness of war.

Intonation and Phrasing

  • Intonation is crucial in expressing the satirical tone in “Oh What a Lovely War”. Lines of dialogue are whispered, shouted, or sung, indicating various levels of sincerity, irony or mockery.
  • Phrasing is particularly important in the song lyrics, some of which are twisted renditions of popular war tunes, conveying a deep sense of irony.

Emotional Range

  • An extensive emotional range is demonstrated, capturing the varied facets of war. Displaying emotions from joyous and comical to fearful and desolate reflects the complexities of war experience.

Delivery of Lines

  • Lines are delivered in a variety of styles - singing, shouting, speaking, or whispering - creating an immersive auditory experience for the audience.
  • By delivering lines in an absurd, almost flippant, manner during grave scenes, performers underscore the irony and futility of the war.

Remember: Vocal interpretation of character is a powerful tool to convey the themes and emotional nuances of a play. Understanding how and why a performer uses their voice in specific ways can provide deeper insight into their character and the overall meaning of the piece.