I'm in a presentation at my drama group. Coming to this are several west end performers and teachers at drama schools. I am doing a monologue. It's Electra from the play Electra by Sophocles. If you know the play it's when she's telling the chorus how much she hates her mother for the first time.
If you don't know the play you could still help, Electra is set in ancient Greece, electra's (my character) father was murdered by her mother and her mother's lover. Her younger sister has also died and she has just recieved the news that her brother has died. He was her one hope of getting revenge on her mother and justice for her father, without him she has nothing. In my monologue she is angry and telling anyone who'll listen exactly how she feels. Electra is rich (she's a princess) but my interpretation of her is that she has too much on to concentrate on her appearance! Please help me! I'm thinking of having a more modern costume and would rather not where a toga!
Thank you! xx
2007-02-24 07:00:59 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Arts & Humanities ➔ Performing Arts
Why not wear layers of soft colors, like a caftan with a long, ornate stole that reaches the floor. The caftan can be cinched with a great wide belt of silver with all kinds of dangling metal discs or charms that make noise when you walk. (You can use aluminum foil and cardboard even!) and have her wearing an aria (halo of flowers like a mini wreath on her head) with a train of tulle that drags on the ground. You can rope chain and charms at the back of the head piece. Electra can also be wearing tons of metal bracelets. And, how about using your props to help display her anger, angrily rip off some bracelets and throw them in a tantrum. They will make a lot of noise! They can also serve to disengage her by having her stare at her hand, full of rings, in the middle of a dialogue, and absent-mindedly sigh as she holds her hand up to the light. This can be a very subtle pause in the dialogue that would reinforce your theory that she has too much on to concentrate.
You could also add some levity by having her tear off her headpiece (whether it is a jeweled crown or the aria) and in the midst of her monolgue, have her hand maiden keep attempting to put it back on her while she is moving, standing, sitting or turning her head...
2007-02-24 09:29:44 · answer #1 · answered by Patricia D 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Keep it simple. I wouldn't think in terms of costume (unless they specified). I would wear a simple black outfit (seems fitting for Electra in this scene). Could be black slacks with black shirt and black shoes....there is a sensuality to Electra so maybe the sweater or blouse could be more form fitting and the pants loose and flowy or the other way around. I'd accessorize with very minimal jewelry, like beaded bracelets, a beaded necklace....one or the other. Hair loose, not up....Break A Leg!!!!!
2007-02-24 15:16:23 · answer #2 · answered by Yogini 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
you're right, don't disguise yourself as a greek maid, looks ridiculous. Put your hair in a very simple tail, use dark and simple clothes (a long skirt and a blouse, no decoration) and use a lightly pale makeup. The idea is focus on you, not in your clothes.
2007-02-24 18:59:31 · answer #3 · answered by athalia 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋