Describing body languageBody language and subtext

Body language reveals a lot about what a person is really thinking. Non-verbal communication such as facial expressions, gestures and movement are therefore powerful tools for actors.

Part ofDramaWriting about drama and theatre

Body language and subtext

This clip shows rehearsals for a scene from Shakespeare’s play, Julius Caesar. Notice the way the associate director gives the actors specific body language direction to enhance the storytelling. Subtext is important here, where body language and facial expressions can give away a character’s real intentions to the audience.