Level 3 BTEC Performing Arts (UPPERS) Induction Project 2018

Task 1

I learned the most from the first clip with Benedict Cumberbatch playing Rosencrantz. even though the clip is very short. The scene itself is very simple; just two characters sitting on a stage with very few props on the stage. This clip is a very good example of how less can sometimes be more. This is also showed as both actors on stage are sitting down for most of the play, and just using small simple movements while they are sitting down. However, I learned that even when sitting down, small movements can make a significant difference to the effectiveness of a performance, even if it’s hand movements or head movements. I also learned that sometimes voice can be one of the most effective acting techniques and can be used to easily show feelings and emotions. Also, not only is it voice, but it is the way an actor says his/her lines, for example articulation of their lines can make a performance much more effective. Furthermore, I learned that it can often be effective when actors react, in a way, to the lines they are saying, using facial expressions to show what their character is feeling when saying that line. I also learned that the speed of which an actor says a line can add major effect to a show, for example an actor can say a line very rushed to add suspense or fear to a performance. I also learned that costume plays a very important role in a performance, as what a character is wearing can tell you a lot about them, like what they do for a living, where they’re from, etc. also I learned that voice also has a major role in the effectiveness of a performance. This is because an actor can use an accent to help the audience distinguish where a character is from. Also, an actor can use different voices to improve characterisation. The relationships between characters have a major effect as you can have characters who are friends, family or enemies, and these all effect a show.