The essay should be 12 pt font and double-spaced. Be concise, clear and specific. You must identify concrete details, that is, provide observations of specific moments in the play, when composing your essay. Format your essay into the clear well-organized paragraphs that I lay out below. Purpose (5pts): In 3-4 sentences introduce the paper and describe the message the production was attempting to convey. What do you take away (main theme) from the show? Plot Synopsis (5pts): In your next paragraph provide a description of the plot of the play. Describe the main characters and events of the play. Conclude with a description of the ending. Purpose Expressed Through Production Choices (15 pts): Analyze the production’s choices to understand how they relate to the play’s meaning. Provide answers to two of the following four questions with at least one concrete example per question. Use the artist’s names when describing their work. *Use specific support from both the script AND the filmed production. Comment on the blocking: Why did the director move and group the actors as he did, and how were those choices related to the play’s message? Comment on the scenery: Why was the set arranged as it was and how does it relate to the play’s message? Comment on the costumes: Why were the actors costumed as they were, and how were those choices related to the play’s message? Comment on the performance of one of the actors: what did that actor do that particularly impressed you, and how were those choices related to the play’s message? Relevance and Execution (8pts): Write a concluding paragraph where you address if the production’s purpose is relevant today. Why or why not? End by discussing if the production achieved its goals. Was it a successful production? Why or why not? Would you recommend it to others?
