Dramatic Speeches

​Elements of Drama

By James Lasay

​Dramatic Speeches

Match

Watch the movie scene from Patch Adams.

_{The character Hunter Adams is portrayed by Robbin Williams.}

_{For this activity, focus on observing Hunter Adams' acting, including his facial and body language, and emotional expression}

Match each detail to the corresponding element of the story.

• In a courtroom.

• Character vs Society

  The character is in conflict with a panel representing the rules and expectations of the medical profession.

• Monologue

  (Character delivers a long speech directed to other characters in the scene.)

• Character stands upright, facing the panel with composed posture and hands together.

SETTING

CONFLICT

DRAMATIC SPEECH

STAGE DIRECTION

• SETTING

• CONFLICT

• DRAMATIC SPEECH

• STAGE DIRECTION

Match

Watch the movie scene from Les Miserable: "I Dream a Dream"

^{The character Fantine is portrayed by Anne Hathaway.}

^{For this activity, focus on observing Fantine’s acting, including her facial and body language, and emotional expression}

Match each detail to the corresponding element of the story.

• A dimly lit stage reflecting a desolate area.

• Character vs Self

  The character demonstrates a conflict against her feelings of despair and hopelessness while longing for a better future.

• Soliloquy

  (Character is alone and delivers a long and emotionally-charged speech.)

• Character steps forward to center stage, pausing briefly to look out toward the audience. Hands gesture expressively as they speak, conveying emotion and longing, while maintaining focus on the inner thoughts being shared

SETTING

CONFLICT

DRAMATIC SPEECH

STAGE DIRECTION

• SETTING

• CONFLICT

• DRAMATIC SPEECH

• STAGE DIRECTION

Match

Watch the movie scene from Evita: "High Flying Adore".

^{The character Che is portrayed by Antonio Banders}

^{For this activity, please focus on Che's acting.}

Match each detail to the corresponding element of the story.

• A ballroom filled with people depicting celebration.

• Character vs Society

  In this scene, Che narrates about Evita's struggle between societal expectations and rules and personal aspiration.

• Aside

  ( Che speaks directly to the audience, sharing his thoughts and feelings about Evita who is on the ballroom, unaware of his comments.)

• Center stage. Characters move energetically, using sweeping gestures and dynamic body movements to express excitement and celebration. Facial expressions are joyful and expressive, engaging the audience. Movements should flow with the rhythm of the music, emphasizing the soaring, uplifting mood of the scene.

SETTING

CONFLICT

DRAMATIC SPEECH

STAGE DIRECTION

• SETTING

• CONFLICT

• DRAMATIC SPEECH

• STAGE DIRECTION

Match

Watch the scene from Shrek the Musical

For this activity, please focus on the characters' interaction on stage.

Match each detail to the corresponding element of the story.

• Stage depicts a dark wooded area demonstrating the mood as humorous and competitive.

• Character vs Character

  In this scene, Shrek and his rival compete to outdo each other creating tension and humor through their interactions.

• Dialogue

  ( Shrek, Princess Fiona and other characters are engaging in a conversation)

• Center stage. Characters engage in playful, competitive interaction, moving energetically around the stage with exaggerated gestures and expressions, reflecting the playful, competitive tone of the song.

SETTING

CONFLICT

DRAMATIC SPEECH

STAGE DIRECTION

• SETTING

• CONFLICT

• DRAMATIC SPEECH

• STAGE DIRECTION

Match

Watch the scene from the movie "Wicked"

For this activity, please focus on the characters' interaction on stage.

Match each detail to the corresponding element of the story.

• ^{Scene depicts an old room with wooden walls. Several items and boxes are scattered across the area.}

• Character vs Society

  ^{This scene portrays Elphaba’s defiance against societal pressures and her will to embrace her own power and identity.}

• Monologue

  ^{( Elphaba delivers a speech expressing her thoughts and feelings. It was mostly directed to the audience and another character on stage.)}

• ^{Elphaba center stage, arms outstretched, rising with intensity and confidence. Lighting and effects emphasize her transformation as other characters react around her.}

SETTING

CONFLICT

DRAMATIC SPEECH

STAGE DIRECTION

• SETTING

• CONFLICT

• DRAMATIC SPEECH

• STAGE DIRECTION

End of Activity