Live theatre evaluation - AQAUnderstanding the question

Section C of the exam focuses on live theatre evaluation, and there are three questions worth 32 marks each, from which one question will be chosen. Each question will focus on a different aspect of the production, eg performers, costume design, lighting design, etc.

Command words - describe, analyse and evaluate

When reading the question it is very important to understand exactly what is being asked, and it can be useful to underline any key words in the question. Exam questions use command words that help define what is expected. For the live theatre evaluation the command words are:

• describe
• analyse
• evaluate

To describe is to set out the characteristics of something. When describing an aspect of performance, lots of detail should be used as well as specific drama terminology. Rather than writing ‘The light looked like it was coming through a window’, higher marks would be gained from ‘A window-shaped gobowas used over a profile spotto create a beam of light that produced the effect of sunlight shining through a window pane’.

It is important to think about the performers’ vocal and physical interpretation of a character, as well as the use of set design, costume design, lighting design, sound design and puppet design.

To analyse is to look at the information provided and break it down to identify and interpret the main points being raised. When analysing a performance, specific effects being created on stage should be talked about. For example, if an actor increased their volume, comments will need to be made on the performer’s intention.

To evaluate is to make a judgement from the evidence available, and a personal judgement about what was seen should be provided:

• Was the aspect of the production referred to successful or not, and why?
• Were the company successful in communicating meaning to the audience?

Example

Below is an example of describing, analysing and evaluating a performer’s use of physical skills within a performance:

• Point - ‘Phillips used her physical skills effectively to help reinforce her characterisation of Maggie.’
• Describe - ‘As Phillips put the shoes on, she stood up and walked across the stage tentatively, moving with a bold and fast pace that slowed down after the first few steps. She also held her arms out as if she was trying to stabilise herself.’
• Analyse - ‘This showed that she was determined to walk proudly in her shoes, but that by doing so she was putting herself in physical pain. She could no longer do the things she did as a younger and healthier woman.’
• Evaluate - ‘Her use of movement was effective in demonstrating to the audience that Maggie was an older woman who was finding it more difficult to move. Her use of movement and physicality helped to demonstrate her character’s struggle and determination that her illness would not limit her. I found this a particularly emotive part of the production.’