Intention

Definition

Intention refers to the underlying purpose or motivation behind a character's actions and behaviors in a performance. It shapes how an actor portrays a role and communicates with the audience, influencing not only verbal exchanges but also non-verbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and physical movements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Understanding intention allows actors to create depth in their characters by exploring what drives their actions and reactions.
2. Actors often utilize intention to guide their non-verbal communication, allowing gestures and movements to reflect their character's desires.
3. Intention can change throughout a performance, influenced by the character's journey or interactions with other characters.
4. Clear intentions help the audience connect with the story on an emotional level, making it easier for them to empathize with characters.
5. Incorporating intention into rehearsals aids actors in developing a consistent portrayal of their characters across different performances.

Review Questions

• How does understanding intention enhance an actor's portrayal of a character?
  • Understanding intention helps actors delve deeper into their character's motivations, which allows them to create a more nuanced and relatable performance. By identifying what drives their character's actions, actors can effectively embody those qualities, making their portrayal more authentic. This awareness also guides their non-verbal communication, such as facial expressions and body language, enriching the overall storytelling experience.
• In what ways does intention influence an actor's use of blocking during a performance?
  • Intention plays a crucial role in an actor's use of blocking as it determines how they physically position themselves on stage and interact with other characters. For example, if a character intends to dominate a scene, they may choose blocking that places them center stage or uses large, confident movements. Conversely, if the character feels vulnerable or defeated, they might adopt smaller, more withdrawn blocking choices. This intentionality in movement not only enhances character development but also communicates vital information to the audience.
• Evaluate the impact of intention on audience engagement during a performance.
  • Intention significantly impacts audience engagement as it shapes how characters are perceived and understood. When actors clearly convey their intentions through both verbal and non-verbal communication, it creates an emotional connection with the audience, drawing them into the narrative. The more authentic and relatable these intentions appear, the more likely audiences are to empathize with the characters' journeys. Ultimately, this connection can lead to a more memorable and impactful theatrical experience.

Related terms

subtext: The underlying meaning or implicit message in a line of dialogue that reveals more about a character's true feelings and intentions.

blocking:

The precise staging of actors in a performance, which involves their positioning and movement on stage to enhance the storytelling and highlight intentions.

emotional truth: The authentic expression of feelings that a character experiences, which is driven by their intentions and beliefs within the context of the story.