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I'm telling you - NSC Dramatic Arts - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 3
I'm telling you. I walk into the Ritz – me and my boys. We open the doors – swing doors. Wam! Wam! And everybody’s dancing. I stand for a moment. Very quiet. Just li... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:I'm telling you - NSC Dramatic Arts - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Briefly describe the context that inspired the creation of Sophiatown.
Answer
The context behind the creation of Sophiatown includes a reflection of forced removals and the destruction of communities under the Group Areas Act in South Africa. This era showcased the struggles of people in a racially segregated society, highlighting the vibrant life and culture of a mixed community despite oppressive legislation.
Step 2
Step 3
Explain how the character’s actions, words and attitude reflect the life of a gangster.
Answer
Mingus’ actions and words illustrate a life steeped in aggression and authority. His animated movements display a charismatic control, and he demands respect while showing a willingness to intimidate. The way he collects from the ladies demonstrates both his confidence and the illegal aspects of his lifestyle as he acts rather flamboyantly and threatens consequences for noncompliance.
Step 4
Highlight the socio-economic conditions reflected in SOURCE C.
Answer
The socio-economic conditions depicted in SOURCE C reveal the grim reality of poverty and the illegal activities that arise from it. The collection of gifts from the ladies highlights a culture reliant on the illegal sale of alcohol and informal means of subsistence, resulting from economic disenfranchisement due to apartheid policies.
Step 5
Suggest how you might physically block the scene in SOURCE C for it to be effective.
Answer
To physically block the scene effectively, the placement of characters should convey Mingus' dominance. For instance, positioning Mingus centrally can showcase his authority while the ladies and gents stand in submissive postures around him. Their movements could be choreographed to reflect their hesitation and fear, contrasting with Mingus' confident strides, thereby amplifying the dramatic tension.
Step 6
Assess how the character identified in QUESTION 3.2 contributes to the mood and energy of the scene in SOURCE C. DO NOT repeat information given in QUESTION 3.5.
Answer
Mingus contributes significantly to the mood and energy of the scene through his boisterous demeanor and commanding presence. His lively approach to collecting gifts establishes an atmosphere filled with frenetic energy, while his authoritative commands create tension between his elaborate gestures and the submissive responses of those around him. This interplay enhances the audience’s engagement and emphasizes the chaotic yet vibrant essence of gangster life.
Step 7
Discuss the process of workshopping a play and how this process can create ‘a living, breathing world created on the stage’.
Answer
The workshopping of a play involves a collaborative process where performers and directors gather to brainstorm ideas, explore character dynamics, and evolve the narrative. This process allows for improvisation and experimentation, where actors can embody their roles in a fluid manner, resulting in performances that are organic and responsive. The collective input shapes the direction of the play, making it not just scripted but a dynamic representation that feels alive to the audience.
Step 8
Imagine that you are a director. Explain how you would stage any scene of the play as a ‘living, breathing world on the stage’ by using any of the following aspects of the performance/theatrical elements:
Answer
To create a ‘living, breathing world’ on stage, I would focus on:
Set
The set would be designed to reflect the harsh realities of the socio-economic conditions, incorporating elements that evoke the atmosphere of a bustling yet oppressive environment. Realistic props and background visuals would enhance the authenticity of the scene.
Sound Effects
I would use sound effects that capture the authentic sounds of the environment, such as lively music intertwined with ambient street noise, emphasizing the vibrancy and chaos of the setting.
Characterisation
Characterisation would be crucial. Each actor would be trained to fully embody their roles, utilizing physicality and emotional depth to reflect the complexities of their situations, creating a relatable and immersive experience for the audience.