Expression
Overview
So, we've decided to perform...but how will we express that performance?
Before we go on, it's important to remember that every Performance - from Theatrical to Individual - has Three Phases of Performance.
Before we go on, it's important to remember that every Performance - from Theatrical to Individual - has Three Phases of Performance.
- GENERATION: This is the script itself. Again, the script may or may not be written down. It may be notated as in music, or a devised dance, or a lesson plan, or the usual patter between you and your barista. The script (performance text) is how the story goes.
- INTERPRETATION: This is the personal spin the Performer puts on the script. For example, when greeting your barista, you may just nod (kinaesthetic) or you may say a greeting (verbal) or, I suppose, you could shriek at them (aural). The script says to greet your barista. The interpretation of that is up to you.
- RECEPTION: This is how your Audience receives the script. What does your barista think of your nod, or your jabbering on, or maybe your delightful shriek of laughter?
With EXPRESSION we're asking how the script is generated, interpreted and received. What senses are we using? More than one sense may be used in any given performance. Indeed, it's almost impossible not to use more than one expression with Performance. However, we are asking which is the primary expression that is used to convey the script?
Please note that the Taxonomy of Performance is the intellectual property of Emily C. A. Snyder.
Please note that the Taxonomy of Performance is the intellectual property of Emily C. A. Snyder.
Expression
EXPRESSION: The sensory means by which the Performance Text is generated, expressed and received.
Please note that there are likely far more means of expression than listed here.
Please note that there are likely far more means of expression than listed here.
- Verbal: Using language
- Aural: Using sound
- Musical: Using music
- Visual: Using sight
- Kinaesthetic: Using movement
- Interactive: Using interpersonal interaction
Consider different forms of storytelling. A dance performance will express the script through kinaesthetic movement. Dance will likely use music and visuals, but the story is generated, interpreted, and received as movement. The movement of the Performers is the main means of expressing the Performance.
