SECTION 4: MIME, FREEZE FRAMES AND ENSEMBLE WORK

What is non-verbal communication? Give four examples.

Communication that does not use spoken language.

Examples:

• Facial expression

• Gesture

• Body language

• Proximity

What is mime?

A technique in which actors create the illusion of objects or environments without real props.

What three things make an imaginary object believable in mime?

• Clear movements

• Consistent size and shape

• Believable weight and resistance

How would you make a mimed heavy box believable? (3 marks)

Use body tension to show physical effort.

Move in a controlled way to suggest the box is heavy.

Maintain consistent movements that make the imagined weight believable.

Why must a mimed object maintain a consistent size and shape?

Consistency helps the audience believe that the imaginary object exists and understand how the actor interacts with it.

What is a freeze frame, also called a tableau?

A still image created with the body that shows an important moment, relationships between characters or the emotional atmosphere.

What makes a strong freeze frame?

It is clear and easy to interpret.

It is visually interesting.

It uses levels.

It uses facial expressions and body positions effectively.

What is the difference between mime and a freeze frame?

Mime: Uses movement to create the illusion of objects or environments without real props.

Freeze frame: Uses a still bodily image to capture a moment or communicate meaning.

What is an ensemble, and what four things does strong ensemble work require?

An ensemble is a group of actors working together to create a unified performance.

Strong ensemble work requires:

• Trust between performers.

• Listening to one another.

• Consistent rhythm and timing.

• Supporting one another on stage.

Give three examples of stage pictures an ensemble can create using their bodies.

A forest

A crowd

A machine

In The Machine activity, what must each learner create, and what should the audience understand?

Each learner repeats one movement and one sound. Together, these form a working machine with a clear rhythm, and the audience should be able to tell what the machine does by watching and listening.