Active choices

Definition

Active choices refer to the deliberate decisions an actor makes to create purposeful actions on stage, which enhance character development and storytelling. These choices are not random; they are rooted in the character's objectives, motivations, and relationships with other characters, making each movement or line delivered impactful. By focusing on active choices, actors can engage more deeply with the material and convey a richer performance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Active choices can involve physical actions, vocal inflections, and emotional responses that align with a character's objectives.
2. The effectiveness of active choices relies on understanding the context of the scene and the relationships between characters.
3. Actors use active choices to create subtext, allowing audiences to read between the lines and grasp deeper meanings.
4. Active choices can vary from performance to performance, as actors adapt to different audience reactions and environments.
5. Developing strong active choices requires practice and rehearsal, enabling actors to explore different interpretations of their roles.

Review Questions

• How do active choices contribute to an actor's ability to portray a character authentically?
  • Active choices are crucial for authenticity because they stem from the character's objectives and motivations. When actors make deliberate decisions about how to move or speak based on what their character wants, it creates a believable representation. These choices help in conveying emotional depth and complexity, allowing the audience to connect with the character on a more profound level.
• In what ways can understanding a character's objectives enhance an actor's active choices during a performance?
  • Understanding a character's objectives provides clarity on what drives their actions and interactions. This insight enables actors to make informed active choices that align with their character’s desires. For instance, if a character aims to win someone over, an actor might choose gestures and vocal tones that reflect charm or vulnerability, enhancing the effectiveness of their performance.
• Evaluate how varied interpretations of active choices can impact audience perception in live theater.
  • Varied interpretations of active choices can significantly impact how an audience perceives the story and characters. When actors bring unique perspectives to their roles through different active choices, it can lead to fresh interpretations of familiar narratives. This unpredictability keeps performances engaging and allows audiences to experience layers of meaning they might not have anticipated. Ultimately, these interpretations foster deeper discussions about the themes and motivations within the play.

Related terms

Objectives: The specific goals a character seeks to achieve in a scene, driving their actions and choices.

Motivation: The internal drive or reason behind a character's actions and decisions, influencing how they engage with others.

Character Development:

The process of evolving a character's traits, beliefs, and behaviors throughout a performance or script.