Written Exams: Live Theatre Evaluation

Evaluation and Analysis

The topic of this section revolves around the evaluation and analysis of a professionally produced live theatre performance.
Proper observation is critical as one must consider various aspects like performances, directing, design, the use of drama and theatre conventions, and the impact on the audience.
It is essential to remember that this part of the evaluation requires a response to an unseen question, hence practising similar evaluations is crucial.

When evaluating a performance, concentrate on the acting skills such as body language, facial expressions, use of voice, movement and gesture, and interaction with other performers.
Consider the role of the director in connecting the narrative, styles, and conventions through artistic decisions and creative concepts.
Pay keen attention to the design aspects, including costume, lighting, sound, and scenic designs. Evaluate how these components enhance the narrative.

Reflect on the use of theatrical conventions such as monologues, flashbacks, etc., in the performance. Try to understand and mention the effect they have on the story’s progression or the message being conveyed.
Always remember to consider the impact on the audience. This includes emotional reactions, how certain scenes or actors caught the audience’s attention, and whether the performance was successful in conveying its intended message.

In your evaluation, always back your arguments with concrete examples from the performance.
The evaluation should be descriptive, analytical, and evaluative. It is not just about describing what happened, but also analysing why it was done that way and evaluating its effectiveness.

Practice makes perfect. Try to attend more live theatre performances and practise writing evaluations to bolster your evaluative and analytical skills.