Techniques
- Storytelling
ü Use of suspense
- Use of flashback
- Use of elaborate stage directions
ü To highlight costume
ü To highlight characterization
- Use of language
Function of each Technique
- Storytelling
ü One central character used to pass on information to the audience
ü The story teller is both a bystander as well as involved in the action
ü The story teller has control over when and how information is relayed as well as how much of it – this creates the suspense
ü The story teller – allows for the smooth transition in time – whether an incident is elaborated on or merely mentioned.
ü The perspective from which the story is told is skewed – based on the teller’s intention - typical of storytelling – the aim is to allow the listener to see things from his or her side.
ü This technique also allows for greater engagement with the audience – as it allows for direct interaction with the storyteller.
ü other characters – (Ms. Aggy and George) are allowed to tell their side of the story about specific situations.
See notes in text book (latest edition).
- Flashback
ü Helps in the transition of time – helps in connecting the events of the past
ü Aids in the use of suspense by the storyteller
ü Provides information for the audience as well as characters in the play about specific situation.
ü Eg. Ms. Aggy goes back in time to inform Len about how she met George – this is for both Len and the audience.
- Elaborate Stage Directions
ü help in understanding the function of costume, and characterization.
ü Costume aids in shedding light on personality of characters as well as their status in society.
ü Provide a guide to the characters so they know how and when to behave
ü Help in the passage of time – it is through these that characters know when and how to freeze and unfreeze so the action can continue.
- Use of Language
ü Language is used to represent status, educational background and generational gap.
ü Pa Ben and Ms. Aggy – use words and expressions that are of their generation. Pa Ben invents words to facilitate his storytelling craft – to be impressive
ü Len transitioned from speaking with Pearl and his mother to a more sophisticated and restrained language.
ü Lois’ use of language is representative of her exposure and educational background
ü George manipulates his to get what he wants – difference in how he speaks to Len, Ms. Aggy, Bertie and even Lois – George able to switch register comfortably.
Pa Ben's roles as:
- narrator
- social commentator
- charactor
- director
How the concept of 'Old Story Time' is presented and maintained
- his narrative of the past - how it was done by his father and the rituals involved
- summoning of the village or villagers - repetition of 'ole story time'
- names of events, places and people of the past eg. Pa Zaccy
- use of common courtesies - eg. All well all well - 'everybody hearty'
