Sides

Definition

In theater production, 'sides' refer to the printed scripts that contain only the lines of a specific character along with a few preceding lines for context. These are provided to actors during auditions to help them prepare and perform their selected scenes without needing the entire script. Sides streamline the audition process, allowing casting directors to evaluate performances based on a focused segment of the work.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sides are typically limited to just a few pages, making them easier for actors to memorize and perform during auditions.
2. They often include specific directions or notes from the director that give insight into the character’s intentions or emotional state.
3. Actors may receive sides shortly before their audition, requiring quick preparation and adaptation to the character’s persona.
4. Using sides allows casting directors to assess how well an actor can embody a role and interact with other characters.
5. Sides can vary in length and complexity depending on the production, ranging from simple scenes to intricate exchanges between characters.

Review Questions

• How do sides facilitate the audition process for actors and casting directors?
  • Sides streamline the audition experience by providing actors with specific lines and context focused solely on their character. This allows them to showcase their abilities without needing to manage an entire script, which can be overwhelming. For casting directors, this focused approach makes it easier to evaluate performances, as they can see how well an actor fits into the role based on their understanding of the character within the context of the scene.
• What elements might be included in sides to enhance an actor's performance during auditions?
  • Sides may include character descriptions, emotional notes, or specific stage directions that help actors understand the nuances of their role. This information is critical as it informs how they deliver their lines and interact with other characters. Including these elements ensures that actors can fully grasp the intention behind their words, allowing them to deliver a more authentic performance during auditions.
• Evaluate the impact of using sides on an actor's preparation and performance level during auditions compared to traditional methods.
  • Using sides significantly alters how actors prepare for auditions by focusing their efforts on limited material rather than an entire script. This method encourages quicker memorization and allows for more concentrated practice on character development. Consequently, actors can deliver stronger performances as they are less encumbered by excess lines, enabling them to connect more deeply with the material. Additionally, this targeted approach helps actors demonstrate versatility within specific scenes, ultimately leading to more effective auditions.

Related terms

Audition: A process in which actors perform a selected scene or monologue to showcase their talents and suitability for a role.

Callback: A second audition where selected actors return to further demonstrate their abilities and fit for a specific role after the initial audition.

Monologue: A long speech by one actor in a play or performance, often used in auditions to highlight an actor's skills and range.