Imagining of the play

Being able to imagine your setting and character is the first vital foundation for character development. This exercise allowed us to do this, examining the fine details that we can identify with the setting and character. 

The scene: The large windows are the statement feature of the room, flooding the room with a dim early autumn light. They are draped with heavy, dark green velvet curtains with golden sashes. The windowsills are filled with large and small ornate vases holding a collection of different flowers, some with tags and cards, some without. There is a fire crackling in the corner casting a orange glow on the furniture. The sofa is also green velvet with red cushions, plump; not the sort of cushion for sitting on, just for decorations. The round dark oak table has been polished and there is another vase on this table with a small picture frame in a silver frame. The black and white picture is of a couple on their wedding day, the man looking much happier than the woman. The carpet has been swept and dusted. The piano is tucked in the corner with photo frames of a general and more vases propped on top of it. It looks as if it hasn't been played in a while. The whole room is all in all impressive but does not give of a homely appeal. This room is clearly not used much. 

Character- Thea Elvsted: She is a very small build; everything about her is vulnerable She wears brown buckled shoes, old with scratches on the heel and toe, but still polished. She wears a long green skirt and a white shirt, a little too big for her, but well ironed. She has a light black overcoat with a lavender brooch pinned to the neck. Her earrings are small green drops and she wears a matching necklace.  Her hair is loose and falling over her shoulder. Every golden curl catches the light of the fire. Her eyes are grey and misted, like she is constantly crying. They are wide and alert, like a small animal. Her hands are held in front of her fragile and smooth. She wears no wedding ring on her finger. 

Being able to examine a setting and character like this will familiarise me with my surroundings, so as an actor and a character, I can know how to manipulate these features to create effect. This kind of setting and character breakdown is vital in every character development process.