Elements of Drama: Time

Summary

This video explores the crucial role of time in performance, emphasizing two key elements: the setting and the rhythm. The setting encompasses both the time period and the time of day, which significantly influence the narrative and character interactions. By choosing specific timeframes, performers can shape how audiences perceive the story. The video encourages creativity by suggesting that time can inspire new scenes or transform existing ones, highlighting the importance of clarity for audience comprehension. Ultimately, it invites performers to experiment with time to enhance their artistic expression.

Takeaways

• 🕒 Time in performance can refer to both the time period and the time of day.
• 📅 Choosing a specific time period (past, present, future) influences the narrative and meaning of the piece.
• 🎭 The setting of a performance significantly affects how the audience perceives the story.
• 🔄 Different times of day can change the dynamics of a scene, impacting characters' moods and actions.
• 🗣️ It's crucial to convey the chosen time clearly to ensure the audience understands the context.
• 👣 Consider how characters would move and interact based on the time period you've chosen.
• 💡 Time can be used as inspiration for creating scenes by selecting specific periods and times of day.
• 🔍 Experimenting with placing a scene in different times can yield unexpected results.
• 🎉 There are no right or wrong ways to approach time in your work; creativity is encouraged.
• 📚 Reflect on how time shapes the narrative and enhances the storytelling experience.

Q & A

What are the two major parts of the element of time in a performance?

The two major parts are the setting of a performance, which refers to the time or place, and the rhythm or pacing of the performance.

How can the time period of a piece affect its narrative?

Choosing a specific time period can significantly influence the narrative and meaning of the piece, shaping how the story is perceived by the audience.

What examples were given to illustrate the importance of time in a performance?

Examples included the difference between a scene set at 7:00 a.m. when a character is going to school and one at 3:00 p.m. or 7:00 p.m., showcasing how the time of day affects the character's actions and intentions.

Why is it important to make the chosen time period obvious for the audience?

Making the time period clear ensures that the audience understands the context, allowing them to engage with the narrative more effectively.

What role does character movement play in establishing the time setting?

Character movement must reflect the norms and behaviors of the chosen time period, which helps to create authenticity in the performance.

How can time be used as inspiration when developing a scene?

Time can serve as inspiration by allowing creators to select a specific time period and time of day to shape the scene, leading to unique narrative opportunities.

What is one approach to reimagining an existing scene?

One approach is to take a scene and place it in a different time period or time of day, which can yield interesting and sometimes surprising results.

What does the speaker mean by 'there's no right or wrong' in relation to using time?

This phrase suggests that experimenting with time in performances is encouraged, and creators should feel free to explore different interpretations without fear of making mistakes.

What should performers consider about their characters when choosing a time setting?

Performers should consider how their characters would behave, speak, and interact in the chosen time period, ensuring consistency with the narrative.

How does the setting of a performance influence its overall meaning?

The setting, including both the time period and the time of day, can dramatically alter the audience's understanding and interpretation of the story being told.