Measure for Measure: Proxemics

This rehearsal we took a first look at proxemics and how to command a Shakespeare play onstage. We were instructed to perform a line or two from the show and decide where it seemed most appropriate to deliver it from. 

There were a number of things to consider: firstly, our stage is thrust, so it is performed with the audience on three sides. This drastically changes the rules on where you can stand on the stage, as you are almost always hitting some part of the audience, and have your back to another part. 

Secondly, we have to take our characters into account. We were asked to debate where on stage lies the most power, and this differed depending on our opinions and our characters. For me, two places showed appeal - up stage centre, and the downstage corners looking in. The first allows a full view of the stage and the audience, therefore seems regal as you are in a way 'above' all others, looking down on the rest (this is also where we ended up staging the throne, so this reinforces my original thought). The second position seemed powerful because it meant i could see the entire stage from the audience's perspective, so it was as if I was omnipotent, standing on the edge of the world and looking in. Both of these positions suit my character well. 

The final thing to consider is the text. What is your character saying? if it is pleading and feeble, an upstage corner or downstage facing up may be appropriate as it put's you in sight of those you are addressing while hiding you form the audience, almost handing over the power. If it is contemplative, the downstage corners are again useful as they provide the image of someone looking in at the world, commenting while not necessarily changing anything.