Applause and Advice Chapter Notes | Arts (Kriti) Class 8 - New NCERT PDF Download

Introduction

In the world of theatre, both performers and audiences play crucial roles. The performers work hard to entertain and deliver a memorable show, while the audience is responsible for supporting and respecting the performers. In this chapter, we explore how to be a good audience, the importance of reviews, and how to write one. We also understand the different types of reviews that exist in theatre and the skills involved in reviewing performances.

Being a Good Audience for the Arts

• When you sit among the audience, you are as important as the actors on stage.
• Watch and listen respectfully, giving full attention to the performance.
• Do not talk, fidget, or use phones during the show.
• Even small distractions can disturb the actors and other audience members.
• Applaud at the right time, react kindly, and appreciate the performers’ effort.
• Follow simple requirements: do applaud, appreciate, congratulate, offer help; do not disrespect or distract performers.

Expression of Success

According to the 27th chapter of the Nāṭyaśhāstra, success of a performance can be expressed in two ways:

• Vocally: through words, speech, exclamations, and writing.
• Physically: through actions like clapping, standing up for respect, and giving gifts.

Review

• Reviewing is the process of thoughtfully observing, reflecting, and giving feedback on a performance, product, or experience.
• It involves identifying what worked well, what could be improved, and how effectively the goal was achieved.
• A good review appreciates strengths, notices details, and offers suggestions.
• Reviewing improves critical thinking and helps everyone to improve.

Reviewing in Theatre

Theatre reviewing involves watching a play carefully and observing:

• Performance of actors
• Storytelling
• Voice, movement, costumes, lighting, and set design
• It is not about criticism but about celebrating strengths and suggesting improvements.
• It trains you to be a careful observer, sensitive listener, and respectful communicator.

Types of Reviews

• Self-review: Creators examine their own work to improve before presenting it.
• Peer review: Suggestions given by contemporaries before or after the show.
• Critical review: Detailed analysis by everyone after the show, covering strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

Preparing to be a Reviewer

• Watch plays in any language or genre whenever possible.
• Write a review for every performance you watch.

Steps to Prepare

• Research the Play
  • Find the name of the play, playwright, and basic plot without spoiling it.
  • Understand the time period or setting.
• Know the Genre: Identify if it is comedy, tragedy, musical, historical drama, or modern play.
• Find out about the Theatre Team: Know if they are professionals, students, or community groups.
• Keep a Journal: Note down thoughts during or after the show.
• Your Mindset: Watch with an open mind, be honest, fair, and avoid bias.
• Revise What You Intend to Observe:
  • Acting: Was it believable and emotional?
  • Set design: Did it support the story?
  • Costumes: Did they match the time and characters?
  • Lights and Sound: Did they add to the mood?
  • Story: Was it clear and engaging?
  • Flow: Was there a smooth transition between scenes?
  • Errors: Were they handled well?
• Have No Expectations: Each production is different; avoid comparing to movies or previous versions.

Writing a Review

After watching the performance and noting down the key points, you might feel eager to express your thoughts. However, there are some essential points to keep in mind before you begin.

• Don’t be Mean or Personal: Focus on critiquing the performance, not the person. Avoid criticizing the actor, director, or team.
• Avoid Spoilers: If the story depends on a twist, do not reveal it to others.
• Avoid using phrases like ‘it was not bad’: Instead, explain what was good and where improvement is needed, providing valid reasons for your opinions.
• Balance Positives and Negatives: Even if you didn’t enjoy the performance, highlight something positive as well. The goal is to help the team or individuals improve and develop.
• Find the Right Length: Ensure your review is detailed yet concise, aiming for around 300 words for beginners. Don't make it too long or too short.