University of Saskatchewan /Drama 117.3/Final Exam

Instructions: Answer all four questions. Each is of equal value. Time: 3 hours

1. Scene/ Scenes are structured dramatic material and approaching the scene is part of the actor’s task. Through involvement on different scenes you have developed powers of analysis and imagination. A scene is built both by the depth of the interplay between actors and by the incorporation of clear structural and psychological understandings in the playing. Examine the different paths you and your classmates chose in the creation of a scene. Formulate and organize your thoughts into an articulate statement on how actors “work” a scene.

2. Process & Play/ Course work this year was premised upon the belief that the art of acting involves (1) mastery of the materials of acting - the self, partner, space and text; (2) physical and vocal freedom of expression; and (3) the mysterious imaginative ability to play, to express one’s own human vitality in a form - in short to undergo transformation. I suggest these three fundamental skills analytical, expressive and spiritual shaped our class experience. Insofar as the living actor is at the center of any theatre, the class treated not only the actor but also theatre itself and was designed to stimulate an examination of certain values which you pursue in your own way. Respond to the various issues and challenges raised in class. Reflect on class exercises, discussions, readings, shared experiences and your own personal “journey/work”. Finally reflect on theatre as a collective experience. Explore Brecht’s “He Who Says Yes” and “He Who says No”, for plays are as ambivalent in their meanings as the world they mirror. Explore emotionally as well as intellectually. Explore the image and associations evoked and finally explore what does or doesn’t remain with you.

3. Readings/Stephen Wangh in An Acrobat of the Heart writes: “But the inner emotional life which vivifies your acting is not something you can control.” Comment.

4. Theatre/ Penetrate your experiences and impressions of the live theatre you encountered this year and formulate a manifesto for the art of acting. A manifesto is a brief, passionate and personal statement of belief and purpose. Include:
a. What you want to do for the world through your acting?
b. What you must do to empower yourself to achieve you purpose?