Character Interpretation
The actors’ interpretations of the characters’ emotions influence the play’s overall emotional tone. A skilled actor may emphasize Willy’s internal struggle and frustration, highlighting the desperation and weight of his unfulfilled dreams. They might bring out the contrast between Willy’s confident facade and his inner turmoil.
Character physicality—their gestures and movements—can add significance levels to the text that are not always stated directly. The actor might convey Willy’s decline through subtle changes in posture, gait, and facial expressions. The choices made by the actors in terms of emotional tone, physicality, and speech patterns will shape the audience’s perception of the characters and contribute to the overall interpretation of “Death of a Salesman.”
Directorial Choices
The director directs actors on how to play particular parts, ensuring that their decisions support the director’s vision for the production as a whole. The director sets the performers’ postures and motions on stage, affecting the play’s visual presentation and attention span. It may have been preferable to present the two lads in Death of a Salesman when they face their father for mistreating Linda. One thing that might drive character motivations is the play’s delicate emotional undertones and overall pacing.
The degree of abstraction, symbolism, or realism in the set design is up to the filmmaker. Changes in lighting might indicate moods, narrative shifts, or transitions. For instance, one may change the lighting in this play to present different subjects. It is up to the director to choose the purpose and arrangement of the props. The way characters are shown visually is enhanced by their costumes. One might collaborate with the costume designer to ensure that clothing complements character attributes and the overall look.
Comparing Reading and Viewing: Personal Preferences
Consequently, altering the lighting, sets, costumes, and props would be in keeping with my directing style and the mood I wish to establish. Depending on the preference of either reading the play or watching it being performed, some people prefer reading plays because it allows for individual interpretation and a focus on the text, but I enjoy watching performances for the visual and auditory experience as they bring the characters to life.
Reference
Schafer, Rob. “Act One – Death of a Salesman.” YouTube. 2013. Web.