Standard Grade DramaDeveloping Character

In developing a character an actor needs to build up a profile of the character to help

them make informed choices when playing the role. This can come from the script

itself, the stage directions or from research around the subject.

Ask yourself the questions, in relation to the character.

What do I know? What can I guess? What would I like to know?

Also work out the relationship between the character you are playing and the other

characters in the play. The script will help you here, as will the work done in

preparing the character profile.

An actor can change certain things to enable them to present a more believable

character.

1.Appearance/Clothing 2.Voice 3.Movement

1. Appearance. The use of appropriate costume, make up and hairstyle can

greatly help make the character look more realistic. This may also help the

actor to find the character.

2. Voice. The actor can change elements of their voice to suit the role that they

are playing. Think in terms of the following elements in relation to the

character you are going to play: -

Tone Pitch Accent

Language Volume Register

Diction/Clarity Intonation Fluency

3. Movement. The actor can also make adjustments to their movement to help

portray the character in a more realistic light. Think in terms of the following

elements of movement: -

Speed Agility Energy level

Characteristic style/tone Suppleness/Stiffness Gestures

Expressions Posture Body Language

Mannerisms