Things I Know to be True: Performers' vocal interpretation of character (accent, volume, pitch, timing, pace, intonation, phrasing, emotional range, delivery of lines)

Things I Know to be True: Performers’ vocal interpretation of character (accent, volume, pitch, timing, pace, intonation, phrasing, emotional range, delivery of lines)

Interpreting Characters

  • Accent: To portray authenticity, characters have different accents. For instance, Fran and Bob Price have an Australian accent.
  • Volume: This corresponds to the character’s emotional state and the scene’s intensity. Louder volume symbolizes happiness or anger, and quieter volume implies fear or sadness.
  • Pitch: High pitch implies excitement or fear, while a low pitch indicates seriousness or sadness. Pitch is a helpful tool for differentiating between characters and their emotions.

Perfecting Timing and Pace

  • Timing: This is about the duration between responses. It might be fast during high tension, or slow during emotionally charged moments. Timing enhances the dialogue’s rhythm.
  • Pace: The rate at which lines are delivered can impact the scene’s mood. Fast pace signifies urgency or anxiety; slower pace signifies careful thought.

Mastering Intonation and Phrasing

  • Intonation: This refers to the voice’s rise and fall. Positive statements often end with an upward inflection, while negative ones end in a downward tone.
  • Phrasing: Breaking sentences in different ways can highlight crucial details or create drama. The performers should use the script’s enjambment and syntax interruptions to guide their delivery.

Demonstrating Emotional Range

  • Emotional Range: The play displays a variety of emotions. Performers should show a wide range of emotions, including joy, anger, sadness, fear, surprise, and disgust.

Delivery of Lines

  • Delivery of lines: Performers must deliver the text with emotion and comprehension, rather than simply reading the lines.

Remember, the aspects mentioned above are essential to character development, audience engagement, and story progression. Master these vocal elements through consistent rehearsal and practice.