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Study SOURCE J and SOURCE K below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Dramatic Arts - Question 6 - 2024 - Paper 1
Question 6
Study SOURCE J and SOURCE K below and answer the questions that follow. SOURCE J: AN EXTRACT FROM GROUNDSWELL JOHAN: (He closes in on Smith, toying with the knife.... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Study SOURCE J and SOURCE K below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Dramatic Arts - Question 6 - 2024 - Paper 1
Step 1
6.1 Describe to the actors what is happening in the scene in SOURCE J.
Answer
In this scene, Johan confronts Smith in a tense and threatening manner. Johan toys with a knife, which heightens the sense of danger. Smith responds with fear, asking Johan to be careful. Johan uses this moment to illustrate the hatred between them and emphasizes the fear of being in a vulnerable position at night.
The scene reflects the imbalance of power, with Johan representing a threat, and Smith portrayed as submissive and fearful. Johan's actions expose both Smith's weaknesses and their complicated past, marking the scene as crucial in establishing tension.
Step 2
6.2 Suggest how Johan’s speech and actions might build the dramatic tension of the scene in SOURCE J.
Answer
Johan's speech is filled with menacing undertones, as he describes the fear of encountering someone in the middle of the night. His actions exacerbate this tension; for instance, bringing a knife into the encounter signifies danger and unpredictability. The pacing of his lines builds suspense, leading to a climax where he suddenly plunges the knife into the noticeboard above Smith, creating a shocking moment that leaves the audience on edge.
Step 3
6.3 Analyse how the actor playing Smith might use the vocal skills of pace, inflection and volume to deliver his lines in SOURCE J.
Answer
The actor portraying Smith could use a slow pace initially, illustrating his fear as he processes Johan's threatening approach. Inflection is crucial here: a quavering tone would enhance the sense of dread, particularly as Johan menaces him.
As the scene builds in intensity, increasing the volume slightly while keeping a trembling pitch could underline Smith’s growing panic. Finally, crucial lines delivered with a whisper can create chilling moments of vulnerability. This variation in vocal skills captures Smith's emotional landscape effectively.
Step 4
6.4 Motivate your choice of blocking for the characters in SOURCE J.
Answer
For Johan, blocking should place him in a dominating position, moving towards Smith, which visually represents his power over him. This could involve Johan stepping forward aggressively to corner Smith, making the audience feel the encroaching threat.
Conversely, Smith’s blocking should reflect his fear and submission. He might be positioned further back, perhaps sinking against a wall, indicating his inability to escape. These physical placements deepen the tension, making it palpable for the audience.
Step 5
6.5 Identify whether the actions, gestures or body language of the TWO actors in SOURCE K are appropriate for what happens in the scene.
Answer
Johan's actions are aggressive and forward, matching his threatening dialogue. Holding the knife and moving threateningly toward Smith visually conveys his menace. His body language, tense and directed, reinforces his dominant role in the confrontation.
In contrast, Smith’s body language should be more open, yet submissive, perhaps with arms raised defensively, showcasing his fear. This juxtaposition highlights the power imbalance effectively, making the dynamics of their relationship clear to the audience.
Step 6
6.6 In such a play, so much depends on the actors. Discuss how the actors might create sensitive performances by applying Stanislavski's System/Method in the preparation and performance of this scene.
Answer
Using Stanislavski's System, the actors would deeply explore their characters’ motivations and emotional backgrounds. They might engage in character history exercises to understand the complexities of Johan and Smith's relationship, enhancing their portrayal.
For Johan, understanding the root of his animosity and desperate desire for control can inform his aggressive demeanor. For Smith, delving into feelings of fear and vulnerability would allow the actor to embody a character marked by past trauma. This deep emotional connection would lend authenticity to their performances, allowing nuanced interactions that resonate with the audience.