Workshop 3 – Artur

Learning intention

In this activity, you will develop your understanding of Scene 16 of Neighbourhood Watch through performance. You will investigate the use of various elements of drama, directorial choices, and design elements that align with the conventions of magical realism in contemporary Australian theatre practice. 

Assumed knowledge

A working knowledge of the conventions of magical realism as they related to contemporary Australian theatre practice.

Instructions

As a class, do a staged reading of Scene 16 and discuss its context, characters, and any issues and concerns it explores. This scene delves into Ana's traumatic encounter with a serial killer in her youth, which serves as the origin of her 'sixth sense' and her message to Catherine: 'don't be the trusty.'

• In a group of 4 or 5, explore a section of Scene 16. As a calss, divide the scene into differenet (manageable) portions for each group.

• Address the following theatrical question while workshopping your assigned section for a 1 to 3 minute performance.

  • • How can we manipulate and control the elements of drama and conventions of magical realism to create the nightmare dream-reality with Artur?

• While workshoping, try to achieve this by considering the following elements of drama:

  • • Situation– how can you convey the setting effectively?

    • Atmosphere – how can you create a specific mood and atmosphere?

    • Tension – what techniques can be used to build and maintain tension?

    • Contrast – explore ways to highlight the contrasts within the scene.

    • Elements of production – consider how lighting, sound, and projection can be employed to shift and intensify the atmosphere in this nightmare world.

• Perform your assigned section of Scene 16 for the class.

• Following each performance, engage in a class discussion about the issues and concerns raised in the scene. You might wish to consider the following in your discussion:

  • • Discuss how the past influences an individual's experience of the present and its power to impart life lessons, such as 'don't be the trusty'.

    • The resilience of the human spirit to continue living a full life despite past traumas.

    • Reflect on how this scene deepens the bond between Catherine and Ana, both haunted by their pasts, both literally and metaphorically.

    • How does Scene 16 reveal the horrors of Ana's past, even before the loss and destruction of World War 2?

Reflection

Individually, reflect on the scene and the discussions held in class. In  your study notes, write a paragraph (around 250 words) that addresses the question below.

• How does Scene 16, with its heightened magical realism, provide insights for the audience into the impact of the past? In your response refer to theoretical and experiential evidence to support your answer.

You may also want to add this workshop evidence to you study notes (see the Study notes page).