ADA20 Writing A Theatre Review
A review is an evaluation of a performance of a play. Professional reviews do not generally have a formula, but for this assignment your review will contain five paragraphs.Your review should be approximately 400-500 words in length.
Paragraph 1 - The Basics
Include the answers to the five W’s : Who? (the playwright, director, actors), What? (the title of the play), Where? (the name of the school or theater), When? (when did you see it) and Why? (In a few sentences tell about the basic theme of the play). Please don’t list these in point form, but blend them into a well written paragraph.
Paragraph 2 –The Plot
Briefly summarize the plot of the play or musical, how well did the story work? Was it interesting, entertaining? Did you like the actual script?
Paragraph 3 -The Acting
React to the performers playing the characters in the play. Be sure to use their real names and character names. Were they believable? How was their volume and articulation? Did their gestures andbody movement convey and stay true to the character? Did they ever break in concentration?
Paragraph 4 - The Design
Set: Did it establish the correct mood and time period for the play?
Lights: Did they convey the proper mood, emphasis, and brightness?
Costumes & Make Up: Were they true to the period of the show? And to the Characters?
Sound: How did the sound effects and music contribute to the show's mood? If it was a musical,how was the orchestra?
Paragraph 5 - The Reaction/ What is the play’s effect on the audience.
Was the audience attentive? Interested? What was your opinion of the play as a whole?
Remember to :
1. Back up all your opinions with valid reasons.
2. Be objective, fair and sincere.
3. Evaluate the entire production.
4. Be constructive. Indicate good points along with those you felt needed improvement.
5. Enjoy the play or musical- don’t go to be overly critical.
6. Your paragraphs should flow into each other.