| Course: THEA 115 Play Production
Duet Performance
Assignment |
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The only way to begin to understand the experience of an actor in the theatre is to perform as one. This assignment requires a very limited performance in front of a supportive audience of classmates that only wishes you well.
You are in a group of three: two members will perform in one dialogue and coach one; the third member will perform in two and will not coach. The dialogues will be duet scenes of 3 to 5 minutes in length from published plays. You may select them among you, and organize your work as a group however you wish, but the choices must be approved.
Each scene must be one continuous scene and have approximate balance between the roles. Each must encompass at least one complete action (don't simply cut it short at 3 minutes), and yes, you have to read the whole play. Your analysis of the character requires a total understanding of the context. You are encouraged to consider primarily realistic 20th century works; any other style will be questioned. You are encouraged to use your final project play, if it is appropriate.
The dialogues will be performed memorized, with representations for properties, and suggestion clothing. Following are some widely available American authors whose plays have many strong duet scenes.