You watched the National Theatre of London’s production of Frankenstein by Nick Dear and adapted from the novel by Mary Shelley.
Write an essay that reflects your experience watching the production, using what you learned about producing theatre in this course. Remember that everything in the show results from a choice made by the creative team. Therefore, as you discuss the production, always ask yourself why was this choice made.
INTRODUCTION. Write a brief introduction that describes your overall impression of the production. Did you find it engaging or entertaining? Explain why or why not and provide examples to support your ideas.
ACTING. Whose performance did you find most engaging? Why did you think this actor’s performance was particularly enjoyable or memorable? Were actors able to use their voice and body/movement effectively to create believable characters? Provide examples.
DESIGN ELEMENTS. Analyze and assess the design elements (set, lighting, costumes, makeup, and sound). What element(s) did you enjoy most? Why? Were the design elements used effectively to tell the story? Were they realistic or stylized? Here are some questions to consider answering as you write this section:
Is the scenery helpful to the play? To the performers?
Is it a hindrance? Too distracting? Too overbearing?
Does it contribute to the mood? Is it appropriate for the style of the production?
Is there a symbolic element in the scenery? In the shapes or colors?
Is the scenic design aesthetically pleasing in itself?
Is the lighting design realistic or nonrealistic?
Does the lighting design help create mood?
How does the lighting use color and direction (where does it come from: below, above, behind, etc.)
Are light changes made slowly or quickly? Is this right for the play?
Are the costumes right for the play? In period and style? For the theme of the play?
Are the costumes right for individual characters, in personality, station in life, occupation, etc.?
DIRECTING. Although it’s challenging to discuss the directorial approach, assess whether or not the production had a cohesive feel to it (both aesthetically and structurally).
CONCLUSION. Write a conclusion that summarizes your impressions of this production. Would you recommend it to a friend?
