Presentation Task 1: Off Text Improvisation

The improvised scene should last no longer than 5 minutes and should communicate the students’ interpretation of events that occur ‘off text’ but which have a significant impact on the events of the play. Students should consider how they can create a scene that has dramatic impact for the audience.

Parris stumbles across the girls in the woods at night.

Points to consider:

• The nature of the girls’ ritual.
• The reaction of the different girls involved in what they are doing.
• Parris’ reaction to what he witnesses.
• Structure: Clear opening and strong ending.

Elizabeth confronts Abigail and John over their illicit relationship.

Points to consider:

• Creating the air of tension at this specific moment of ‘discovery’.
• How John reacts to being found out and how Abigail reacts.
• How Elizabeth deals with this situation – the way in which she addresses John and the way in which she addresses Abigail.
• Structure: Clear opening and strong ending.

Gallows scene: John Proctor and the townsfolk.

Points to consider:

• Comments and opinions of the townsfolk present at Proctor’s execution.
• Proctor’s final words – if he delivered a final speech what might he choose to say?
• The comments of those in authority. Contrasts - Parris, Danforth and Hale.
• Creating the appropriate atmosphere for such a scene.
• Structure: Clear opening and strong ending.

For each of the improvised scenes, groups may consider incorporating examples of the following:

EXPLORATIVE STRATEGIES

• Narrating
• Marking the Moment
• Role-Play

THE DRAMA MEDIUM

• The use of spoken language
• The use of voice
• The use of movement, mime and/or gesture
• The use of space and/or levels

THE ELEMENTS OF DRAMA

• Climax/Anti-climax
• Rhythm/Pace/Tempo
• Contrasts
• Conventions (slow motion, freeze-frame, audience asides, soliloquy)

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