The Drama Teacher

Part 3 in a series exploring the use of various dramatic elements.

My definition of tension:

Tension can sometimes be used as an interchangeable term with conflict.  But where it differs, lies in the development of suspense in a performance.  As the audience anticipates certain outcomes in the plot, the tension builds.  An obvious example of rising tension is in a mystery or whodunit.  The development of tension usually parallels the advancement of the plot, leading to a crisis or climax. Tension is closely linked with timing.

After a bit of workshopiing and analytical discussion, my Drama students concluded:

• tension should preferably have the opportunity to build in the drama
• if tension builds too slowly, it will die in the middle of a scene
• if tension builds too quickly, it may appear ineffective or artificial
• pace now becomes a key factor in the development of tension
• tension can occur when performers raise their voice > shouting
• the opposite is also true, as tension can also occur with stillness and silence in the drama
• tension can be created by the unknown
• tension can be created simply by the audience following where characters look on (or off) stage
• tension can be created via heavy use of emotion/s with and between characters
• blocking (positioning of actors) can also create tension

Things have been a little slow around here for a while, so it’s time to jazz this blog up with some new content!

This is the first in a series of posts about the elements of drama. These elements are essential to all effective theatre performances, from the multi-million dollar spectacular to the classroom skit with a table, a chair and two rostrum blocks.

In recent weeks I have been workshopping various “dramatic elements” with my Year 11 Drama students, who, at the end of each workshop, discuss and record their findings … the first of which is in this post. Their discoveries, however, are just as relevant for a junior or middle school Drama class because the elements of drama are universal … crossing all cultures, skill levels and age groups.

My definition of rhythm:

Rhythm refers to the timing and pace of the drama.  It also means the beat or tempo of the performance.  As a rule, rhythm should never be the same throughout the drama, regardless of its length.  Rhythm can follow the emotional state of one or more characters or the atmosphere of the performance at particular moments.

Examples of Rhythm

• rhythm in exchanges of dialogue between characters
• rhythm in the walk of a character
• rhythm in the reactions of characters to events in the drama
• rhythm in the speech of a character
• rhythm in the repetition of words and phrases
• rhythm in stylised or synchronised character movements
• rhythm in the changes of pace in scenes
• rhythm in non-vocal sound made by an actor