for actors and understudies

Role Analysis

Whenever possible, all answers or comments are to be based on information about your character in the play.  When this is not possible, you may create answers provided they are logically related to the information in the play.  This is an opportunity for fresh, original actor creativity, provided in an organic framework for directing and acting which permits and encourages artistic individuality as well as artistic collaboration.

1.       Name of actor/actress ____________________________________________________

2.       Name of character – first and last _______________________________________

3.       Age of character ___________Precise birthdate of character _________________

4.       Astrological sign__________________  What significance if any to this sign.

5.       How Physically active is your character?  Explain.

6.       Name an animal – not a bird – which in appearance, movement, or manner seems analogous to your role.

7.       What is it about this animal that most specifically relates to your role?

8.       Can you name a person close to you who seems to be a good deal like your character?  If so, name him/her.

9.       Can you name a famous person who seems to be a good deal like your character?  Name him/ her.

10.   Vocally, is your character quiet and demure or loud and flamboyant? If neither, describe your character’s vocal nature?

11.   How would you describe the way your character likes to dress?

12.   How would you describe the way your character likes to wear or comb his/her hair?

13.   Select 3 or 4 major emotions your character encounters most?

14.   Give an example from the play in which each of the examples you listed are revealed – from #13.

15.   What is the MF (Motivational Force (spine) of your character? State the MF of your character by beginning with the name of your character and the word – wants… The spine or want should relate to another character or characters in the play.

16.   What is the major beat or action (key moment of activity and/or decision/choice) in the play for your character (The most important moment in the play for your character)?

17.   Describe in short phrases the MAJOR activities your character engaged in during the day of action of the play (from rising, up to the first entrance on stage).

18.   Describe in short phrases the MAJOR activity your character engages in during all offstage time after every exit made during the action of the play.

19.   Create a list of 5-8 MAJOR character idiosyncrasies, likes and dislikes for your character.

20.   Add any other pertinent comments about your character.