DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/3YPC-AW07
Defense Date
2021
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Fine Arts
Department
Theatre
First Advisor
Keith Byron Kirk
Second Advisor
Aaron Anderson
Third Advisor
Jesse Njus
Abstract
This theoretical performance thesis is dedicated to illustrating the potential fusion of Sam Shepard’s Fool for Love with Laban effort actions and temporality through music through a production plan. It utilizes evidence from the playwright’s biographical works as well as author experience and research rooted within the Laban movement analysis to develop a fully realized production. It examines the utilization of Shepard’s life within his work which includes the relationship between familial members; the utilization of rhythm and musicality to develop the aura of each scene; the character arc for each principle character and the necessity of music to drive the emotional development of each moment; and the temporality of the cyclical nature of the play implemented through time-based songs. This thesis takes into consideration the climate in which it is being theorized and acknowledges the difficulty of performing a piece within said climate. Accordingly, the author provides full plans to be utilized when live performance with close proximity can resume with acknowledgement of the potential changes throughout the process for each specific cast member and ensemble as a whole. There are exercises to attempt, questions to propose, and matters to consider within a production of Shepard’s plays during any production; the author realizes that the schedule laid out within this thesis may be malleable in action. Ultimately, this thesis aims to provide an assistive, informative, and accessible blueprint to illuminate the possibilities within a realism performance piece utilizing stylized movement pieces set to cyclical temporality music selections.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
4-28-2021