Please note: this page is now archived and links are not kept regularly up-to-date. As a result, you may find some outdated links.
Non-Naturalism
Below are various theatrical conventions (acting and staging techniques) that occur in non-naturalistic theatre. I hope they assist you in your studies......
Non-Naturalistic Theatrical Conventions |
use of multiple time frames |
stylised movement |
use of fragmentary costume |
actor playing multiple roles |
use of projection to convey a message |
use of narrator(s) |
use of placards and signs |
open white stage lights (no colour gels) |
actors as props and/or set pieces |
use of song or poetry to convey a message |
visible stage lights and other equipment |
sophisticated use of freeze frames |
monotone use of voice |
transformation of props |
use of music |
limited use of emotion |
use of flashbacks and flashforwards |
happy scenes performed sadly and vice-versa |
fragmentary sets |
limited physical involvement between characters |
actors swapping roles in performance |
actors speaking stage directions aloud |
self-contained episodes (not scenes) |
characters with backs to the audience |
speaking directly to the audience in performance |
narration that spoils upcoming dramatic tension |
symbolism through movement and gesture |
stylised use of voice |
VCE Drama Resources
2004 Drama Solo Performance Exam
Past Drama Exams TIP! If you're a student, before attempting a past exam paper, it might be worth checking with your teacher first to ensure he/she is not planning on formally setting one of these past exams for your class, anyway.
Dramatic Elements by Justin Cash
These eleven dramatic elements are at the core of all drama. They can be used in isolation or simultaneously and are manipulated by the performer for dramatic effect. They are numbered merely to assist in their logical connections with each other. Please note the information presented below is not a VCAA document and should be used as a guide only.
1. Focus
Focus is often used interchangeably with the terms concentration and engagement, assisting the performer in the portrayal of believable characters. This also implies memorisation of text (including word, moves and gestures). Furthermore, focus requires the channelling (focusing) of all the performer’s energies into achieving the given goals or objectives of a character in a scene (otherwise known as ‘wants’).
2. 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.
3. Timing
Timing in performance refers to dramatic timing of movements and gestures. We often take our movements for granted in everyday life, but when performing, the use of our body must be carefully considered. Timing can be manipulated to create contrast in a scene or simply to demonstrate robotic, stylised and non naturalistic movements. Rhythm and pace are affected by timing.
4. 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.
5. Contrast
Without the careful use of contrast a performance is boring and lacks tension. An obvious example of contrast is a sad scene followed by a happy one. But contrast can be created in more subtle and sophisticated ways, such as manipulating the drama to create a change in setting. use of space or rhythm. The pace of scenes can also be altered, as can various dramatic elements within one small section of a performance.
6. Mood
Mood is the feeling or tone of a performance. It refers to ambience or aura and is often created through a combination of several dramatic and stagecraft elements working in harmony with each other. The mood of a performance is closely linked with everyday feelings such as pity, anger, desire or frustration. Mood in drama can be created via sound, lighting, movement, setting, rhythm, contrast, conflict and more.
7. Space
This dramatic element refers to the effective use of available space in a performance. Different levels of space are utilised by the performer, such as sitting, bending over, lying down or crawling. Of course, using the space around you can mean downstage and upstage or walking in or on a stage set. In order to use the space effectively, movement becomes an important factor. Use of space also implies clearly communicating to the audience where the action is taking place. This may include any changes in location that may occur in the performance (particularly if little or no sets and/or props are being used and there is a heavy reliance on the audience’s imagination).
8. Sound
Modern theatrical practice relies on sound to assist in a number of ways. It can be useful in creating atmosphere or mood. Actors and their bodies can construct effective sound in a performance. Mouths can produce sound effects for particular dramatic effect. Small props can also create sound effects that can be used live during a show. Other uses of sound involve the implementation of technology, such as instrumental recordings and sound effects on CD (but when any sort of technology is used in the creation of sound, it is classified as a stagecraft element and belongs to the Theatre Studies course).
9. Symbol
The use of symbol in dramatic performance can be one of the simplest and also most complicated of all techniques. Essentially, symbolism implies a greater meaning than the literal suggestion. Props are the easiest to work with because objects in everyday life are symbols in society (for example a rose symbolises love; a cross symbolises Christianity). Symbols can also be found in the use of colour. We often symbolise purple with royalty, red with anger or desire, black with evil and darkness or white with purity and innocence. Colour association can be worthwhile symbols with costumes, sets and props. But the most sophisticated use of symbol occurs with the application of gesture and movement. A particular gesture performed by a character early in a performance can be repeated later under different circumstances (context) and have a very different meaning. Used only once, a gesture can also be a powerful symbol. Of course, all of the above examples can be combined for an even more powerful dramatic effect.
10. Conflict
Playwright George Bernard Shaw (who wrote Pygmalion, which later became the film My Fair Lady) once said ‘No conflict, no drama’. How right he was! Drama that lacks conflict is normally dull and uninspiring. As a rule, conflict should always be considered an essential ingredient for all dramatic performances. Conflict can be between two or more characters, or simply one (inner conflict). Many Elizabethan soliloquies contain inner conflict (‘To be or not to be...’ is an excellent example). Conflict on stage can be verbal, physical or non-verbal (psychological). Conflict differs from tension in that it is often a fixed part of the structure of a play, with characters destined to clash with one another from the outset (think of famous Greek plays as prime examples).
11. Climax
Most drama will have one or more crises in the development of the plot. A crisis is a key moment of dramatic tension and conflict in the play, usually occurring between two or more characters and having serious implications for the outcome of the plot. The ultimate crisis or highest peak is usually called the climax and often (but not always) occurs toward the end of a performance. There can also be more than one climax, although this is uncommon.
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Solo Performance Resources
Character 1 - The Player
Elizabeth I.org Probably the Web's most comprehensive site on Elizabeth I with essays on every aspect of her life and career, including interesting articles on Elizabethan society.
SparkNotes Useful biography of Elizabeth I, including other people and events in her life.
Lucidcafe Brief biography of Elizabeth I.
Historic Royal Palaces Description of 'open day' at the Hampton Royal Palace, offering a recreation of the details of Elizabeth's court.
Michael Best A look at Elizabethan court musicians, inlcuding sound links.
Maggie Pierce Secara Excellent website with articles on all aspects of life in Elizabethan England.
New Advent Encyclopedia Comprehensive article on the qualities of a morality play.
Renaissance Faire Useful biography of Elizabeth I.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Excellent article on the characteristics of a morality play.
Valdosta State University Brief PowerPoint presentation on the life and times of Elizabeth I.
Tudor History.org Brief biography of Elizabeth I.
Barbara Bishop Excellent bullet-point list of the ingredients found in a typical morality play.
Tudor History.org Comprehensive picture galleries of famous portraits of Elizabeth I at various stages in her life.
University of Victoria Brief article on morality plays.
Cambridge History of English and American Literature Article detailing the nature of Elizabeth's court.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Excellent article examining various developments in theatre during the Renaissance, including the Elizabethan stage and royal court theatres.
Cambridge University Press Brief entry on Westminster court during Elizabeth's reign.
Page Wise Excellent glossary of related terms for the morality play in English drama.
Elizabeth I.org Highly relevant article on the characteristics of Elizabethan court life.
History People Brief article describing a typical Elizabethan court.
Marilee Cody Rich array of portraits of Elizabeth I with explanations.
Tudor England Massive 23,000 word essay on the life of Elizabeth I.
Justin's Drama and Theatre Links Links page on Elizabethan drama.
GoTudor.com Useful website about tudor life in England.
History on the Net Great website for students with easy-to-understand details of Tudor society.
Britain Express Excellent account of the festivities and customs of the royal courts at Christmas.
Britannia Comprehensive website on all aspects of British history.
Character 2 - The Persona of the Bow of Argo
Mythweb Account of Jason and the Argonauts for students (with cartoon illustrations).
Myth Man Another account of Jason and the Argonauts for students (with images).
Poseidon Details of the size and shape of the ship Argo.
Anne Wright Excellent webpage about the ship Argo.
Logomancy Information about the 1960's film Jason and the Argonauts.
Bullfinch's Mythology Chapter on The Golden Fleece, Jason and Medea that includes an excellent illustration of the ship Argo.
Archaeonia Excellent account of Jason and the Argonautic expedition (with illustrations).
Passaic County Community College Account of Jason and the Argonauts with pictures.
Mythweb Homepage of student website about all aspects of Greek mythology.
Dragon Information Article about the epic adventure of Jason and the Argonauts.
Myth Man Worthwhile website for students about Greek gods and heores.
The Online Medieval and Classical Library (University of Berkeley) E-text of The Argonautica (3rd Century BC).
Bullfinch's Mythology Complete hyperlinked list of Jason's argonauts.
History and Philosophy of the Ancient and Modern World Article about Jason with useful images.
Character 3 - Jung Chang
The Age Review cover story "Beyond The Red Boundary" can be obtained by either purchasing the VCE Solo Performance Exam Resource Kit from Drama Victoria or direct from The Age news archives at a small cost (or your school library).
Sydney Morning Herald Excellent article about Chang and Wild Swans from October 19, 2003 (edited extract from the introduction to the new edition of the book).
Interactive Reviews Comprehensive review of Wild Swans.
Biography.com Biography of Chairman Mao.
Arts Zone Activities and resources on Wild Swans.
University of Maryland Useful resource on Chinese history (including 20th Century).
Freshlimesoda Book review of Wild Swans.
Encyclopaedia Britannica 6,000-word biography of Chairman Mao and his impact on 20th Century China.
Urban Dreams Project Links page for a variety of Web information on Wild Swans.
LeavingCert.net Links page on Wild Swans and related resources.
Planetario Excellent hyperlinked resource on all aspects of Chairman Mao's life and career achievements.
Film Makers Library Information about the film Wild Swans.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Massive article on the People's Republic of China.
King's College Overview of 20th Century China.
Stephanie Neaton Several useful links (most still active) that will aid in understanding the book Wild Swans.
Character 4 - Shaun
Lothian Books Excellent teacher notes with questions and activities on every aspect of The Lost Thing.
Jigsaw Theatre Company Wanna see The Lost Thing performed as a play??? Then you'll have to go to Canberra, as The Lost Thing is being performed as a children's play at the Small Theatre, National Gallery of Australia, October 6-9, 2004. Check out the blurb about it on their website.
Locus Online Interview excerpts with Tan where he discusses The Lost Thing (including a photo of the author holding the book).
Dreamstone Fantasy Art Brief biography of Tan with an image from his book The Rabbits.
Booked Out Speakers Agency Synopsis of various Tan books with cover images.
Department of Education, Tasmania Excerpt of a paper by Shaun Tan at a conference by The Australian Association for the Teaching of English in 2001, where he discusses originality and creativity in the designs of his book The Rabbits.
Department of Education and Training (Western Australia) Brief biography of Tan plus a list of books he has written/contributed.
12 Frogs Review of The Lost Thing with postings by people (including Drama students wishing to do it for their Solo).
Law Books.org Review of The Lost Thing.
Ivan Bertolla Did you know there was a concept album for Tan's book The Lost Thing? Don't believe me? Then hit this link, scroll down and check out the review (pdf).
Whammo Another CD review of Aussie band Lo-Tel's album The Lost Thing, inspired by Tan's book.
Justin's Drama and Theatre Links Links page to Web resources on Theatre of the Absurd. Important! You must use VCAA's definition of this term in the exam paper glossary. Use this links page to broaden your understanding of the style the performance should demonstrate aspects of.
Catholic Schools Office, Maitland-Newcastle Useful study guide to The Lost Thing (pdf).
Getaccess Interview with Shaun Tan.
Publishers Group West Synopsis of The Lost Thing with image and publisher details.
Spirits Dancing Scroll down this page to find an advertisement from Jigsaw Theatre Company in May this year seeking two actors/puppeteers for their upcoming production of The Lost Thing.
Premier's Reading Challenge Brief overview of The Lost hing, succinctly pinpointing key themes presented in the book.
Salvidor Dali Musuem From the master of Surrealism himself, check out images of his work from his early, transitional, surrealism and classic periods in order to better understand Shaun Tan's style of illustrating.
Monica Sanchez Great easy-to-understand website on Surrealism in the visual arts.
Great Posters/All Posters Hundreds of enlargeable thumbnail images of surrealist paintings from some of the movement's greatest artists.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Article on the Dada movement, the precursor of Surrealism.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Article on Surrealism in literature and the visual arts.
Character 5 - The Knight
Project Galactic Guide Useful 'beginners' article chronicling the history of the Monty Python team and their various television and film projects.
Monty Python's Flying Circus This fansite contains resources to the television series Monty Python's Flying Circus plus many of the Python movies. The site includes the complete film script to Monty Python and the Holy Grail in 24 separate scenes, including various sound links and the script to The Knights of Ni.
Monty Python's Completely Useless Website Script of the "The Knights Who Say Ni!". Other resources can be found on their homepage.
Monty Python Homepage Fansite with a useful selection of Python sketches from various sources.
Pyhtonline Listed as a resource on the VCAA exam paper, but for the life of me I cannot see what is worthwhile about this site!
Internet Movie Database Entry on Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1974).
Monty Python's Completely Useless Website Complete script to Monty Python and the Holy Grail in a single text file/page.
Wikipedia Worthwhile discussion of Monty Python and the Holy Grail, including a plot synopsis and other resources.
Wikipedia Entry in this free encyclopedia describing who "The Knights Who Say Ni" are in Monty Python and The Holy Grail. There is also a reference here to the Swedish term "Ni", upon which the Python team based the word in their sketch (scroll to bottom of page in link).
Respree.com Several pages of thumbnail prints of Monty Python stills.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Worthwhile encyclopedia articles on King Arthur, The Round Table, Arthurian Legend, The Holy Grail, Camelot, Merlin and Stonehenge.
Wikipedia Informative encyclopedia entries on King Arthur, Merlin, The Holy Grail and Stonehenge.
Anno Domini Excellent website about King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table.
Justin's Drama and Theatre Links Use the VCAA exam paper definition of "pythonesque comedy" first. You may find links pages to farce and satire useful, also.
Onelook Definitions for 'surreal' (as surreal is mentioned in the VCAA glossary definition for "pythonesque comedy").
Character 6 - An Oompa-Loompa
Kristine Howard Fantastic fansite about Dahl with comprehensive biography, interviews, song lyrics from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, publishing details, fun and trivia etc.
Underground Online Interview with Mel Stuart, director of the film Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.
Film Freak Central Book review of Mel Stuart's "Pure Imagination: The Making of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory".
Shoedogg.net Synopsis of Willy Wonka on DVD.
Internet Movie Database Details of Willy Wonka with a film cast list.
Rebecca Useful list of Wonka facts from a fansite that also includes a timeline of events in Dahl's life.
Bookfinder Review of Dahl's book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Powell's Synopsis and book reviews of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
BBC Excellent, easy-to-understand overview of Margaret Thatcher and her main policies.
Wikipedia Encyclopedia Worthwhile encyclopedic articles on Margaret Thatcher, Thatcherism and her Poll Tax which resulted in 300,000 Londoners rioting in the streets in 1990.
Socialist Party (UK) Newspaper reports about Thatcher's Poll Tax.
Ulrich Bauer Useful article on Thatcher and Thatcherism.
Michael Portillo Article explaining Thatcherism.
Timothy Lynch Useful essay "Thatcherism and the Dynamic of Morality".
BBC News Very informative at-a-glance article "Thatcherism from A-Z" that alphabetically details many aspects of Thatcher and her economic policies.
The Margaret Thatcher Site Of particular interest here is a short biography of Thatcher and a comprehensive article on her economic policies.
Paul Ross Photography Graphic photos of the 1990 London Poll Tax Riots.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Comprehensive biography of Margaret Thatcher.
Guardian Unlimited A series of articles chronicling the achievements of Thatcher's professional career as England's Prime Minister from 1979-1990.
Mr. Devitt Useful article 'The Thatcher Revolution' discussing her government's economic policies.
Ludwig Von Mises Institute Worthwhile article 'Exit The Iron Lady' about Thatcher's economic policies.
Ludwig Von Mises Institute Article discussing Margaret Thatcher's Poll Tax.
10 Downing Street Brief biography of Margaret Thatcher.
London Review of Books 'The Rise and Fall of Thatcherism' by Peter Clarke is a lengthy and sophisticated article on this topic.
Encyclopaedia Britannica You must use the official definition of the term satire as defined by VCAA in the exam paper glossary. Then check out this massive encyclopedic entry on the term that covers many possible definitions and the use of this genre throughout history in drama, literature, motion pictures etc.
Wikipedia Very useful entry on satire that defines different forms such as diminution, inflation, juxtaposition and parody.
Justin's Drama and Theatre Links More definitions of satire.
Character 7 - The Diva
Toni Johnson-Woods Comprehensive biography of Lola Montez by a University of Queensland lecturer, including outstanding source material with excellent descriptions from observers, critics and jounralists of Lola Montez's spider dance, scandals in Australia, America and England.
zpub Biography of Lola Montez.
David Spicer Productions A few B+W images from the 1958 Australian stage musical about Lola Montez (on a site where the text is impossible to read!)
Jerome Krause Biography of Lola Montez.
ECV Lola Montez biography.
Standing Stones Article about Lola Montez and Lotta Crabtree in California.
Oakland Musuem of California Picture of Lola Montez taken on a plate of glass.
German Cinema Archive Synopsis of a film about Lola Montez's life.
James Chastain Biography of Lola Montez..
zpub Photos of Lola Montez, her house in California and her gravesite.
Wikipedia Enclopedia entry on Lola Montez.
Dancer History Archives Details of Montez's dancing abilities.
Spartacus Educational Biography of Lola Montez.
CZBrats Biography of Lola Montez.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Biography of Lola Montez.
Lola Communications Biography of Lola Montez.
Famous Americans Biography of Lola Montez.
The Maritime Heritage Project Biogrpahy of Lola Montez.
Jerome Krause Photo of Lola Montez.
State Library of Victoria Catalogue database photo of Lola Montez with biographical notes of her first Melbourne performance in 1855.
Online Archive of California Early image of Montez from 1847.
Washington State University Photo of Montez.
National Library of Australia Close-up picture from the Australian Elizabethan Theatre Trust's musical production of Lola Montez in 1958, giving an accurate indication of costume and dance.
Internet Movie Database Brief plot summary of the 1918 film Lola Montez.
InfoPlease Brief biography of Montez.
Gold Rucsh Chronicles Account of Montez's activities on the Californian goldfields.
Australian Dancing Biography of Lola Montez.
Google Image Search Dozens of thumbnail images of Lola Montez.
Divas The Site Biography of Lola Montez.
The Free Dictionary Brief encyclopedia entry on Montez.
The University of Cincinati Digital Press Illustration of Lola Montez on a horse.
Stanford University Historical document chronicling the nature of the goldfields in Nevada City in the 1840's and '50's, including a reference to the performances of Lola Montez.
Sam Houston State University Photo of Montez accomapnied by the claim her dancing and acting were considered so bad by people at the goldfields in America, she was laughed off the stage.
Character 8 - The Freedom Fighter
Wikipedia Outstanding discussion of the term 'propaganda' including its history, various kinds of propaganda, techniques of generating it and propaganda in the Russian Revolution, Nazi Germany, the Cold War and Afghanistan. Also includes excellent images and colour posters of propaganda from various world governments.
Wikipedia Detailed definition of the term 'freedom fighter'.
Wikipedia Definition of the term 'apartheid' with a hyperlinked discussion about apartheid in South Africa.
Wikipedia Biography of the architect of apartheid South African Prime Minister Hendrik Verwoerd.
Merriam Webster Dictionary Definition of 'clandestine'.
Wikipedia Detailed history of South Africa.
African National Congress Biography of Vuyisile Mini.
South Africa.info Account of the film Amandla.
SAfricaVoyage.com History of Soweto.
TIME Special issue article on Nelson Mandela.
South Africa Government South Africa Government online.
Stanford University Brief history of apartheid in South Africa.
Virginia Tech Useful timeline of apartheid events in South Africa.
Encylopaedia Britannica Biography of Neslon Mandela.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Biography of Stephen Biko.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Massive history of South Africa, including a section on apartheid.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Biography of Hendrik Verwoerd.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Huge (and I mean HUGE) encyclopedic entry on the term 'propaganda'. Includes a comprehensive definition, origins of the term and various uses of propaganda in contemporary society. Well worth a read if you want a thorough understanding of bullet point No.3 on the exam paper for this character.
Sunsite Excerpts from Nelson Mandela's autobiography The Long Walk To Freedom.
United Nations A picture tells a thousand words - 25 images of examples of apartheid in South Africa.
Rebirth African Tribal Art Gallery Useful easy-to-understand series of articles on apartheid in South Africa.
Infoplease Entry on apartheid.
South African History Online Biography of Stephen Biko.
Cry Freedom Plot discussion about the movie Cry Freedom, based on the life of Stephen Biko.
A-Z Lyrics Universe Lyrics to the Peter Gabriel song 'Biko' about the man of the same name.
South African Communist Party Biography of Vuyisile Mini.
Encarta Dictionary Useful entry on 'toyi-toyi.
Chris Smith (Journalist) Photograph of people doing the toyi toyi in a protest with an explanation of its use.
All Africa.com Article discussing a march marking the 25th anniversary of the 1976 Soweto Uprising that mentions how people toy-toyi-ed in the streets in protest.
Marie Jorritsma - University of Pennsylvania Review of the film Amandla from the viewpoint of a white South African woman, including other important historical facts about apartheid. Also includes a photograph of protestors doing the toyi-toyi and Vuyisile Mini's gravestone.
City of Johannseburg Article about a protest strike by the South African Municipal Workers Union that shows a group of men toyi-toying in the streets.
AllMoviePhoto Various images from the film Amandla.
Google Image Search Photographs of protestors doing the toyi-toyi.
Yahoo Image Search Photographs of protestors doing the toyi-toyi.
Afropop Worldwide History of South African music.
Stanford University Links to South African music sites on the Web.
South African Rock Digest History of South African rock music.
Christo Essay on African music including notes on its social context, instruments, style and the popularisation.
Christo Historical perspective of African music.
Dennis Shore A History of South African jazz and popular music in a three part audio show (requires Real Player).
Artslynx International Links page to African dance resource sites on the Web.
Bartleby.com Entry on South African poetry from The Cambridge History of English and American Literature.
Poetry International Web Examples of South African poetry online.
Southern Rain Poetry Compilation of contemporary South African poetry.
Barefoot Press More examples of South African poetry online.
SA Poetry Brief but worthwhile history of South African poetry.
Orlando Pirates Famous image from the Soweto Uprising.
Character 9 - The Showman
Bob King's Houdini Tribute Excellent site with Harry Houdini multimedia links, including historical video footage of his invlovement in the first controlled power flight in Australia.
Magictricks.com Excellent website with Houdini biography, picture galleries and other assorted links.
United States Library of Congress Excellent chronology of the various stages in Houdini's life and career.
United States Llibrary of Congress Type in 'houdini' in the search box and you'll receive over 100 personal and professional historical photographs, including many of him undertaking his famous tricks and escapes.
Houdiniana Massive website with information on everything you needed to know about Houdini!
Houdiniana About a dozen photographs of Houdini piloting the first airplane flight in Australia at Diggers Rest.
Houdiniana Rare sound recordings of Houdini's voice (requires Quick Time).
PBS Excellent site about the film 'Houdini' with an extensive biography, useful timeline of events in his life and a wonderful gallery of Houdini posters.
Hall of Harry Houdini Archived version of webpage with a useful collection of Houdini illustrations, photographs and posters.
All Magic Excellent collection of articles on Houdini.
Google Images Picture search results for Houdini in Google .
Outagamie County Historical Society Fun facts about Houdini.
Harry Houdini.com Timeline of events in Houdini's life.
Spectrum Biographies Biography on Houdini.
1001 Postcards Send a Harry Houdini e-card to your friends!
Wikipedia Entry on Houdini.
Houdini in the New York Times Massive project where a Houdini enthusiast is archiving every article about Harry Houdini printed in the New York Times from 1910-1983 and posting them on the Web! The work is still in progres with over a hundred articles, but material already completed dates from 1910-1926. Well worth a read!
NPR Biographer Kenneth Silverman discusses Houdini's last days in an audio link (requires Real Player).
America's Library Useful site with brief stories and images of major events in Houdini's career.
Appleton Public Library Excellent website with a comprehensive Houdini biography, a wonderul selection of historical photographs and an intersting interview with the escape artist himself.
I-Collect.com Useful series of Houdini posters.
Noonco.com The story of Houdini's life in two audio links (29 mins & 9 mins). It will help if you have braodband. Requires Real Player.
The Haunted Museum Comprehensive biography on Houdini.
Character 10 - Captain Holly Short
Artemis Fowl Penguin Books UK site devoted to Artemis Fowl with excellent character profiles, a message from the author, great message board postings and other useful bits of information.
Allscifi.com A couple of brief reviews of Artemis Fowl plus notes on character and plot details.
Internet Movie Database Brief entry on the movie Artemis Fowl currently in production.
Artemis Fowl Fun Fansite with information about all apsects of the novel.
Mouthshut.com Critical review of Artemis Fowl.
Bownet Review of Artemis Fowl.
Green Man Review Review of Artemis Fowl.
Time For Kids -Interview with Eoin Colfer, author of Artemis Fowl.
Fowl Manor Fansite with information on characters, the author, the upcoming movie etc.
Suzie's Book Pages Review of Artemis Fowl discussing comparisons with Harry Potter.
Wikipedia Biography of Eoin Colfer.
Cleveleys Website about the Temple of Artemis.
Theatre Studies Resources
2004 Theatre Studies Monologue Exam
Past Theatre Studies Exams TIP! If you're a student, before attempting a past exam paper, it might be worth checking with your teacher first to ensure he/she is not planning on formally setting one of these past exams for your class, anyway.
Stagecraft Elements
The ten stagecraft elements prescribed in the VCE Theatre Studies course are not defined in detail here, because most of them are self explanatory. Instead, each element has a resource links page available on Justin's Drama and Theatre Links for you to peruse and download information. Stagecraft elements such as costume, lighting and set design have resources which are more visual. More theoretical elements, such as dramaturgy (which has different meanings to theatre people in different parts of the world) include various worthwhile definitions and examples of written work and tasks. All stagecraft elements can be located under the 'stagecraft' section of this website. The direct page links are below for your convenience.
Acting
Direction
Dramaturgy
Stage Management
Set Design
Costume
Lighting
Properties
Make-up
Sound
Monologue Performance Resources
Monologue 1 - Tartuffe (from Tartuffe or The Imposter by Moliere)
Monologue 2 - Elmire (from Tartuffe or The Imposter by Moliere)
BookRags Complete online text to Moliere's play.
Project Gutenberg Complete online text to Moliere's play.
Bartleby Complete online text to Moliere's play.
Bibliomania Complete online text to Moliere's play.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Extensive biography of Moliere.
Diane Thompson Study guide to Tartuffe with background information and scene-by-scene plot synopsis.
Theatre History.com A brief history of Moliere's play.
Moonstruck Drama Bookstore Biography of Moliere.
Orlando UCF Shakespeare Festival Study guide with character description and plot synopsis.
Lyman Baker Study guide FAQ.
Moonstruck Drama Bookstore Brief synopsis of the play.
Lyman Baker Essay which discusses Tartuffe as a political parable and looks at the audience the play was originally intended for.
William Temple Davis Scenic design images for Tartuffe.
University of Wisconsin Production photographs of Tartuffe clearly showing the necessary costume required.
Justin's Drama and Theatre Links Links page on satire.
Google Images Wide selection of images for productions of Tartuffe.
Yahoo Images Wide selection of images for productions of Tartuffe.
Monologue 3 - Phaedra (from Phaedra by Jean Racine)
Monologue 4 - Hippolytus (from Phaedra by Jean Racine)
Bartleby.com Complete online text to Racine's play Phaedra.
Project Gutenberg Complete online text to Racine's play Phaedra.
The Great Books Library and Directory Complete online text to Racine's play Phaedra.
BlackMask Online Complete online text to Racine's play Phaedra.
Classic Authors Complete online text to Racine's play Phaedra.
Literature Classics.com Complete online text to Racine's play Phaedra.
BookRags Complete online text to Racine's play Phaedra.
Moonstruck Drama Boookstore Biography of Racine.
Theatre Database Biography of Racine.
Discover France Biography of Racine.
Jennifer Kiger Biography of Racine.
Theatre History.com Article discussing Racine's childhood and early career.
Simon McLeish Brief review of the play and synopsis.
Monologue 5 - The Chorus (from Antigone by Jean Anouilh)
SparkNotes Comprehensive study guide to Anouilh's play including context, plot overview, character list, analysis of major characters, themes, motifs, symbols and each section of the text fully summarised. Also includes a brief hyperlinked discussion on the role of the Chorus.
PinkMonkey Barron's Booknotes guide to Anouilh's play including notes on setting, characters, conflict, plot, themes, mood, structure, background and historical information. Also includes a brief description of the Chorus, comprehensive summaries and analyses of the various sections of the play and comments on Antigone as a tragedy and comparisons between Sophocles and Anouilh's versions of Antigone.
Guthrie Theater Excellent guide about Anouilh showing a chronology of the events in the playwright's life paralelled with world events and numerous literary quotations by others about Anouilh's strengths as a playwright, his characters etc. (pdf).
Pegasos Biography of Anouilh.
Discover France Brief biography of Anouilh.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Biography of Anouilh.
Google Images Production images for Anouilh's Antigone.
Yahoo Images Production images for Anouilh's Antigone.
Monologue 6 - Herald (from Marat/Sade by Peter Weiss)
EmmyBCA Useful biography of Peter Weiss including a timeline of careeer events and a listing of all his literary works.
David Burrows Costume rendering for the character Herald in Marat/Sade.
Danny Yee's Book Reviews Critical review of the play Marat/Sade.
The Complete Review Critical review of the play Marat/Sade.
Charenton Walls Website devoted to the film Quills (starring Geoffrey Rush and Kate Winslett) about the later years of the Marquis de Sade in the asylum of Charenton.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Biography of playwright Peter Weiss.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Biography of historical figure the Marquis de Sade.
Encyclopaedia Britannica -Biography of French politician and revolutionary figure Jean-Paul Marat.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Brief biography of Jean-Paul Marat assassin Charlotte Corday.
Encyclopaedia Britannica Encyclopedic entry on the French Revolution.
Google Images Images of playwright Peter Weiss.
Google Images Production and publicity images for Marat/Sade.
Yahooo Images Production and publicity images for Marat/Sade.
Monologue 7 - Messenger (from Medea by Euripides)
ClassicNotes Excellent study guide to Euripides' play including context, character list, major themes, short and long summaries and analyses. Also includes a very brief description of the Messenger.
The Internet Classics Archive Complete online text of Medea.
History for Kids The story of Medea for students.
Theatre History.com Summary and analysis of the play.
Temple University Links to images of the myth of Medea and Jason.
Ian Johnston Easy-to-read online text of Medea.
Classics Technology Centre Study guide for Medea.
SparkNotes Excellent study guide for Medea covering the play's context, comprehensive summary and character desciptions (including a brief description for the Messenger).
Justin's Drama and Theatre Links Links page on all aspects of Ancient Greek Theatre.
Tyler Junior College Simple, but useful study guide to Medea.
San Antonio College Background to Medea.
Google Images Images of Medea productions, publications, publicity, sources etc.
Yahoo Images Images of Medea productions, publications, publicity, sources etc.
Monologue 8 - Helena (from A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare)
Monologue 9 - Quince (from A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare)
PinkMonkey Barron's Booknotes guide to Shakespeare's famous play including notes about the author, play, plot, characters, other elements and full story summary.
SparkNotes Comprehensive study guide including context, plot overview, character list, analysis of major characters, themes, motifs, symbols and each section of the text fully summarised. Also includes a brief hyperlinked description of Quince and Helena.
ClassicNotes Excellent study guide to A Midsummer Night's Dream including notes about the author, Shakespearean theatre, background to the play, character list, short and long summaries and analyses.
BookRags Useful study guide with notes on the author, context, plot summary, characters, quotes and themes. Also includes descriptions of Quince and Helena.
Bibliomania Free study guide requiring registration including plot synopsis, themes, essay questions and further reading.
Justin's Drama and Theatre Links Links page to a variety of Shakespeare resources.
Justin's Drama and Theatre Links Links page to a variety of Elizabethan theatre resources.
Google Images Hundreds of images from productions and films.
Yahoo Images More images of A Midsummer Night's Dream.
Monologue 10 - Doctor Faustus (from Doctor Faustus by Christopher Marlowe)
NovelGuide Excellent study guide to Doctor Faustus including summary, character profiles, metaphor and theme analyses. Also includes a character description of Doctor Faustus.
ClassicNotes Comprehensive study guide to the play including notes about Christopher Marlowe, the play, characters, major themes and short and long summaries and analyses. Also includes a character description for Doctor Faustus.
SparkNotes Comprehensive study guide including context, plot overview, character list, analysis of major characters, themes, motifs, symbols and each section of the text fully summarised. Also includes a lengthy discussion about the character Doctor Faustus.
PinkMonkey Barron's Booknotes guide to Marlowe's play including notes on setting, characters, conflict, plot, themes, mood, background and historical information. Also includes a brief description of Faustus and comprehensive summaries and analyses of the various sections of the play.
Bibliomania Free sstudy guide requiring registration with information the author and the play's background, general synopsis, scene summaries and themes.
Justin's Drama and Theatre Links Links page to a variety of Elizabethan theatre resources.
Google Images Production images and publicity posters etc.
Yahoo Images Photographs of Doctor Faustus productions.
Monologue 11 - La Marquise de Merteuil (from Les Liaisons Dangereuses by Christopher Hampton)
The Costumer's Manifesto Outstanding series of visual resources for a 2002 theatre production of Les Liaisons Dangereuses at the University of Alaska. Includes costume renderings, colour photographs, streaming video and other material.
Internet Movie Database Details about different film versions over the decades.
The British Theatre Guide London review of the play at the Playhouse Theatre.
France In London Brief plot synopsis of the play and background information for the recent London season.
Curtain Up Off(?) Broadway theatre review of the play.
Guardian Unlimited West End review of the play from early 2003 at the Old Vic Theatre.
University of Southern California Production images of the play in performance.
Daily Info Review of the play in Oxford, UK, 2002.
Stetson University Excellent production photographs of the play, directed by renowned theatre professor Ken McCoy.
Stephanie Miller Production photographs of the play by a scenic designer.
Otterbein College Digital scenic design for the play.
Monologue 12 - Sid and Monologue 13 - Sylvie (from Ruby Moon by Matt Cameron)
Playbox Theatre Original world premiere production publicity material for Ruby Moon from the 2003 Playbox season. Includes synopsis and picture.
RGM Assocaites Brief Matt Cameron biography from the playwright's literary agents in Sydney.
Events Ballarat Brief description of the play.
The Age Overview of the 2003 Playbox season with a reference to Ruby Moon.
Drama and Theatre Studies Playlists
No significant web material available.
