a critical analysis that includes a brief summary of a production or play.
an evaluation of the staging, acting, directing.
written in the present tense.
The terms play, production, and performance are often used interchangeably.
Example: “I went to see a play last night, the performances were outstanding and the
production was executed well!”
Example: “I love going to plays. The performances and productions are outstanding!”
play: written script or text that includes dialogue, stage directions, descriptions of characters, and
setting.
production: encompasses the entire process of bringing a play to life (directors, set design,
costume design, lighting, sound, and directing)
performance: the actual presentation of the entire show.
Title
Genre
Director
Time period
Playwright’s biography
Language
Read the entire play before watching to consider theme and atmosphere.
Write a brief summary of the plot.
Introduction
Title of the play
Director name, venue
Thesis Statement going over 2-3 major concepts you will discuss
Thematic Summary
The message the author is trying to convey.
Body
the major concepts mentioned in your thesis, these could include:
Technical Elements (costumes, make-up, props, lighting, music, sound effects, set
design, etc.)
Non-technical Elements (Acting, directing, script, emotion, theme, audience
engagement, etc.)
Evaluation and Analysis of how the elements created mood, contrast, reactions, etc.
Conclusion
restate your thesis statement
sum up your main points and arguments about the show
give personal opinions and takeaways
recommendations (or not)
Play Review
Differences
Things to consider
Before writing
Structure
APSU Writing Center
Play Review
Themes
Plot
Characters
Mood
Costumes
Venue
Make a list of five or six specific words, images, or moments that caught your attention while
you were sitting in your seat and elaborate on them.
What is the central theme or message of the play, and how effectively was it conveyed?
How would you describe the plot and its structure? Did it engage and captivate the audience?
What were your impressions of the characters? Were they well developed, relatable, and
convincingly portrayed by the actors?
How was the acting quality in general? Were there standout performances or any weak links in
the cast?
How effective were the set designs, costumes, and props in creating the atmosphere and setting?
Would you have liked to have seen more attention paid to what you perceived as critical
passages, passages the director seemed less interested in?
Were there any memorable scenes, lines, or moments that stood out to you?
What is your overall reaction to the performance? Would you recommend it to others?
Introduction:
“In [play title], the stages comes alive with...”
“As the curtain rises on [play title], I was immediately captivated by...”
Plot and Story:
“The narrative unfolds with a perfect blend of...”
“The plot is rich with unexpected twists and... ”
Characters and Performances:
“Each character in the play is well-crafted and...”
“The cast of [play title] delivers exceptional performances, particularly [actor name], who...”
Stage Design and Set:
“The use of lighting and props creates a sense of...”
“The set transitions are seamless and enhance...”
Direction and Pacing:
“The director’s vision for [play title] is evident in...”
“The blocking and movement on stage are choreographed with..”
Dialogue and Script
“The dialogue in [play title] is...”
‘The language used by the character is both...”
Emotional Impact
“The play leaves a lasting emotional impact, promoting...”
“The powerful climax of [play title] left the audience...”
Comparisons
“Fans of [playwright’s name] will appreciate...”
“While not without flaw, [play title] holds its own against...”
Conclusions
“Overall, [play title] offers an...”
“I wholeheartedly recommend [play title] to...”
Potential Questions to Answer:
Example Phrases
APSU Writing Center
Play Review
APSU Writing Center
Play Review Outline
Introduction
Play Title: Date attended:
Director:
Playwright:
Your opinion of the play: (amazing, thrilling, thought-provoking, etc.)
Brief Plot Summary: (One key moment/turning point/your reaction)
Body
Describe one main concept: (costumes, make-up, props, emotion, theme, etc.)
Conclusion
Provide a summary: (offer recommendations on who would enjoy the play)
Describe one main concept: (costumes, make-up, props, emotion, theme, etc.)
Describe one main concept: (costumes, make-up, props, emotion, theme, etc.)
