Quote of the week

JENN (as the Master Thespian): Look! The face of death is near! And so, I flail!

ASHARA: Flail. Flail.

This isn't from the one I'm quoting but it is epic and very OROTUND! Acting! Brilliant! Thank you!!

https://vimeo.com/15476780

Character Image and Readings

Both the Comedy of Manners and the Personal Body Spaces were cool. Comedy of Manners gave a lot of information on the working of comedy of manners and a good plenty of examples. Personal Body Spaces was beyond fascinating. I never realized we held so much space in so many different ways. It makes sense, I just never thought about it that way. An audio and vocal sphere makes sense once you think about it. Would have never called that personal space, though.

I dance. Not professionally and gods know I don't take lessons any more, but I took ballet when I was little and my body retained the ability to find the music and move with it. My mom does social country dance regularly so she's taught me the two step, a handful of line dances, and other dances. My youngest brother does ballroom so I've had a bit of a taste of those dances as well, though I am less familiar with them. The chapters in the book - well, the first chapter in the book was understandable and helpful. The dances would be different for on and off stage. Different layout, different reading. The dances in the book were interesting to read. I liked the dialogue with the Questions For the Experts. It was nice to see more than just a single opinion about things. The Rehearsal Notes were a good reminder for what we had learned as well as a nice introduction to what we're starting.

Also, I'm gonna be late. ^_^

Costuming for Comedy of Manners

Now that I'm able to post things...! Here is my idea of what Lydia might be wearing... I chose something in that lighter color because it instantly made me think of a highly fawned over young lady in plays and movies, they're always looking so delicate in light colors.

Image from:  https://neverlight.com/~madame.s/Costume%20movies/Marie%20Antoinette%202006/MA%20blue%20polonaise%20front.jpg

Body wisdom readings

I jumped the gun on talking comedy of manners because...why not! I love comedy of manners!

Getting into some real abstract concepts in the body wisdom reading. A lot of talk about personal space spheres, and its not about your actual personal bubble. (I was thinking about that ice breakers commercial where it has public space vs. personal space vs. ice breakers space xD)

The personal space spheres (from my understanding) seemed to be what was within the reach of your own, physically, vocally etc. Very interesting concept to think about having our on little space sphere around us that is within the reach of our own ability. Gives a whole new meaning to personal bubble!

Costume for Julia

For Feb. 27

We have added the reading "Comedy of Manners" to our readings for next time. It's on e-reserve. Make up your reading response for this week by Monday here on the blog.

Also don't forget to bring costume pieces to class!

Men: bathrobe, tight pants, (rolled up pants), heels or dress shoes, button up shirt, vest, jacket, belt (for swords), scarf and/or tie

Women: as many and as long skirts as you possibly can, heels, a hanky or fan, bodice or corset if you have it

Try your best to be off-book by next class, as we will workshop these scenes.

Image from: http://www.americanrevolution.org/clothing/clothing3.php

Comedy of Manners

Well, I am going to make a post about comedy of manners anyways! It seems very fitting with the scenes we are jumping into. I personally love comedy of manners because it's all about keeping a sense of decorum, even when you're at your worst.

I love the importance of being Earnest for exploring this, but it is the same idea because it is a style. The idea of being polite even when you are being rude, that is what makes it all so humorous.

"A brand neeeewwww car!"

The Price Is Right episodes from the 80's cracked me up so much. The models reminded me of those toys that only have 3 phrases to say before they start to repeat themselves. I noticed 3 main movements with the girls. If you ever wanted to become one of those models, see the steps below and ALWAYS remember: Its not about you, its about making the prize look good.

1. Frame the object with your arm and hand gestures

2. Pet the object

3. Smile and wave with a hand on you hip

4. Repeat

At first glance, the models seem to be engaged, but after looking at their faces, I could tell that their brains were not always with the shiny new station wagon. They look less interested half an hour into the show.

Also, I did some research because I was curious and Bob Barker has a had a ton of lawsuits filed against him by models from the show for sexual harassment charges. Not cool, Bob.

- Audrey

One Dollar Bob

I watched an episode from 1980 and was actually surprised because in my head I imaged the models would be in pink wearing tight dresses barely able to move but instead I found them to be sleekly dressed in black slacks with matching tops. Granted some shirts were sleeveless but what the models had on with a little updating could pass as business casual in today’s world. Due to their dress the models also could move effortlessly making them appear less robot-like as they moved around the stage. On one free car demo the model held a Pontiac sign above the car in her hands and moved down stage left effortlessly. I was surprised.

Scott

The Price is Right

So i watched an old episode of The Prince is Right. It said it was the first episode and it aired on 09/04/72. As i watched the episode i felt like the camera guy focused more on the actual items then the models, unlike later shows where they always have a camera on the model. As far as their movements i felt like nothing much has changed because they are always showing off the item with the same movements but i don think that they were as forced back then as they are now. Forced as in 'look at these prize but really look at me' that's what i get from the new models but the old models their movements were light and casual.

The Price is Right

I have always loved the price is right, ever since I was a small child. I found an episode that aired on June 29, 1977. On observing the models I noticed that they seemed to float if they moved. They would present the item with outstretched arms and open hands. Their arms and wrists had a fluid movement to them when they would present an item. The models touched the product as well showing off all they possibly could without picking up the item and moving it. Their facial expressions showed that the product was giving them "happiness" or "pleasure" but it was obvious that they were insincere.

The models as a whole were physically appealing but they were nothing more than an extension of the product and didn't feel like real human beings. As Tatum put it, they were like live mannequins. Nothing more.

Presence Excersice

I've done something similar to this before, this whole playing with one's presence in a space. It's rather fascinating and rather easy to do if you know what people pay attention to. It allows one to separate from the situation at hand when things get tight or redirect attention from someone else. This really only works, though, on those not overly aware of their surroundings. Some people just take in everything and, while you attempt to command their attention, they will continue to include others in their focus as well.

The price is right models

I have never watched an episode of the price is right before. I wanted to do this right so I found an episode from 1975. Why is everything so cheesy!?

I cringed at everything because it was all just so cheesy and tacky...including the models!
Yes I realize the time gap has a lot to do with why everything is outdated and funny looking, but the cheese in the 70's episodes is all too real.

I observed that the models served as live mannequins, posing in a very stereotypical advertising way. They posed to sell, no question about it. And those ridiculous red dresses and nude high heels made their movement a bit awkward. Ultimately they used over exaggerated and over the top movements. Needless to say I was embarrassed for everyone.

Quote/s of the Week

Okay kids, this is going to be a thing from now on, K?   ~Prof. Jenn

"Feel free to hang on to your thighs for dear life."

....I've forgotten the second one. What was it??