Evaluation and refinement of performance

Evaluation involves objectively assessing a performance to determine its strengths and weaknesses.
Refinement follows evaluation and refers to the process of making changes to improve the performance.

Techniques for Performance Evaluation

Self-Assessment: Performers critically analyse their own performance, considering areas of strength and necessary improvements.
Peer Review: Other performers or peers provide constructive feedback.
Professional Assessment: Solicit feedback from theatre professionals or experts, such as tutors, directors, or dramaturgs.

Video Recording: They allow performers to revisit their performance and identify areas that need improvement.
Performance Diaries: They are used to document insights and ideas for refinement, acting as a record of the development process.

Physical Skills: Evaluate the effectiveness of movement, gesture, and body language in conveying character or narrative.
Timing and Precision: Assess accuracy of timing in relation to lines, cues, and choreographed moves.
Characterisation: Analyse how successfully the character was portrayed physically.
Use of Space and Interaction: Evaluate how well the performance space was used and how characters interacted.
Audience Response: Reflect on the audience’s reaction and engagement with the performance.

Use feedback gathered from evaluation to plan and implement practical changes to the performance.
Experimentation is key - try various changes until the best outcome is achieved.
Schedule regular evaluation and refinement sessions throughout the rehearsal process.
Maintain an open mind to change and adaptability in performance practice.
Undertake continuous improvement, striving for a more polished, dynamic, and compelling performance.
Practice the revised sections multiple times to ascertain the effectiveness of the changes.