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Character Make-Up

So many people ask me how I think up so many characters. How do I know what they are thinking or will be thinking? How do I know what they are about to say and how do I keep them all in character?

Always use the three adjective rule.  Use three describing words to talk about your characters.  The 'character make-up' should consist of those three particular words and then ask yourself why you have chosen these three words.  As you begin to reason with yourself your choices, you will gradually visualize the emotional backbone of your characters.  Once you are within this phase of the exercise the rest will fall into place very easily.  Remember you are in control so create those minds carefully.  Once you give them life they will inevitably take over the spotlight.

The next step would be to talk about them as if they are real.  You get to know them better this way.  You draw up a list of what they are capable of; what they do on a good day and a bad day and how they would respond to those types of situations. You may find that you end up uttering words/lines that only your specific character would.  If this occurs that means you are half way there.

The final step would be their appearance.  People judge characters a lot on appearance so pay attention to detail.  Are they going to be ugly or good looking?  Are they aged or young? What colour is their hair? Again ask yourself why you have opted for those choices.  Remember to give them appropriate names. Nice balanced names are always good.  See how you get on.

In Stinging Filth and Bloody Hands, see what you think of the two main characters in this play, Emily and Jack.  They will emotionally drain you.  I have created them so that you hate them.  Let me know if I have attained that aim.  Enjoy.  First scene is available through the following website: www.astingingaffair.com.

 

By: Tasmin Jahan

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