Assessments for Ensemble Acting and Group Projects

Did the audience understand it?

1.  The script is structured in an organized manner, events and actions lead from one to another in a logical manner.

2.  The script shows evidence of plot and character development so that the audience is able to follow the story without any confusion.

3.  The actors respond to each other in a Give & Take manner, so that the audience is able to hear and understand all the dialogue.

4.  Entrances and exits are on time, logical and made in character without any extraneous backstage talking or other noises.

Did the audience believe it?

1.  The actors appear to be listening and responding to each other "in the moment."

2.  The choice of props, costumes and sets are appropriate and enhance the production.

3.  The production engages the audience's attention.  (The production is not believable if the audience is restless, shifts in their seats, and is generally not paying attention.)

4.  Emotional truth is achieved through attention to ensemble acting, timing, and focused rehearsals.

5.  Dialogue is appropriate to time period, setting and social/economic status of characters.

Tending to the Process

For Ensemble (Group) Projects, it is desirable to assess the process as well as the product.  The coach observes group work for the following:

Decision-making:  the group reaches consensus quickly and finds ways to share responsibility fairly.

Team work:  The group finds ways to utilize individual strengths and overcome weaknesses. 

Focus:  The group stays on task during rehearsals.  Takes time for self-assessment and feedback.

The process is working when all are turned in to each other and solving the problem together.  Watch for individuals who turn away from the group, go off on their own, or otherwise show non-involvment with the project.