How To Write A Review

Summary

Lyn Gardner, a theater critic, offers insights on writing personal theater reviews. She emphasizes the importance of honesty and personal response over external opinions. Gardner advises reviewers to support their opinions with reasons and view their reviews as conversation starters. She suggests considering aspects like story, characters, design, lighting, and sound, and pondering the show's relevancy. The critic recommends noting immediate impressions post-show to aid in later review writing.

Takeaways

• 📝 Writing a review is a personal response to a performance, with no right or wrong answer.
• 🌟 Honesty is crucial; one should express their genuine thoughts and feelings about the show.
• 🤔 Avoid being overly influenced by others' opinions or the reputation of the play itself.
• 💡 It's important to back up your opinion with reasons, rather than just stating likes or dislikes.
• 🗣️ A review is the beginning of a conversation, not the final word, so be prepared to discuss your views.
• ❓ Asking yourself questions about the show's story, characters, and your personal connection can guide your review.
• 🎨 Consider the production elements like design, lighting, and sound, and how they contribute to the storytelling.
• 🔗 Think about the show's relevancy and how it connects with different audiences.
• 📱 It's helpful to jot down immediate impressions right after the show to aid in writing the review later.
• 📝 Write a stream of consciousness immediately after the performance to capture your raw feelings and thoughts.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of a personal theater review according to Lyn Gardner?

The primary focus of a personal theater review is the reviewer's own personal response to the performance they witnessed.

Why is it important not to feel like you are taking an exam when writing a review?

Feeling like you are not taking an exam removes the pressure of right or wrong answers, allowing for a more authentic and free expression of personal opinion.

What responsibility does Lyn Gardner suggest a reviewer has when writing a personal response?

A reviewer has the responsibility to be honest and use their personal space to express their taste and opinion effectively.

Why should a reviewer not be overly influenced by others' opinions or received wisdom?

A reviewer should maintain independence in their opinion because their personal response is what matters most, and it allows for a more genuine critique of the specific production they experienced.

What does Lyn Gardner suggest as a way to start a review conversation?

Lyn Gardner suggests starting a review as if it's the beginning of a conversation, considering how one would defend their opinions if questioned.

How does Lyn Gardner recommend backing up an opinion in a review?

One should back up their opinion by explaining why they felt a certain way about the show, providing specific reasons for their likes or dislikes.

What aspects of a theater production should a reviewer consider when writing a review according to the transcript?

A reviewer should consider the story, characters, design, lighting, sound, and relevancy of the production.

Why is it beneficial to write down immediate reactions after watching a theater performance?

Writing down immediate reactions helps capture the raw emotions and thoughts that can serve as building blocks for a more detailed and personal review later on.

What kind of notes does Lyn Gardner recommend taking after a theater show for review purposes?

Lyn Gardner recommends taking a stream of consciousness notes, focusing on feelings, moments, and specific aspects of the show that stood out.

How does considering the perspectives of different people, like family members, enhance a theater review?

Considering different perspectives can provide a broader understanding of the show's appeal and can add depth to the review by exploring its relatability and accessibility to various audiences.

What is the significance of asking oneself questions when writing a theater review?

Asking oneself questions helps to structure thoughts and guide the review-writing process, ensuring that all important aspects of the performance are considered and discussed.