Character Analysis
In order to create a memorable character onstage, whether is be in a play or musical, it is important to "know" that character. One way to do this is through character analysis. I have made a list of questions to ask yourself about your character to help you. Feel free to print them out, use them, or do whatever.
1.What is your full name?
2.How old are you?
3.What is your gender?
4.Describe your family members and what your relationship with them is.
5.Where do you live?
6.What time period do you live in?
7.What's your social status? Are you rich or poor?
8.What kind of education do you have?
9.Who are you most closely related to? (i.e. your boyfriend, your mother, etc.)
10.Who are your enemies and why?
11.What are your wants and needs?
12.How would you, as your character, go about getting those things?
13.Describe your past or childhood?
14.What kinds of clothes do you wear?
15.What are your life obstacles?
16.What are you doing when you're not onstage?
17.What are your favorite things to do?
18.Do you make a choice as your character? If so what and why did you choose that way?
19.Do you have any kind of inner struggle or self conflict? If so what?
20.What happens after the play?
21.What things might your character hear, see, smell, taste, etc. in the setting of the play?
22.What personal experiences can you apply to your character?
23.How heavy are you? (as your character)
24.How tall are you?
25.What is your favorite color?
26.What kinds of qualities do you have? (i.e. are you a neat freak? obsessive compulsive? very bubbly?)
27.Go through your script and find a verb for every line you have. For example, if your character says, "I'm sorry." a verb could be "to apologize". This may take a while ,but it's worth it!
There are so many more things you can consider when analyzing your character. These are just a few. But think about little details. The deeper you dig into your character the easier it will be for you to bring that character to life. Good luck!