Drama Major
Name: _________________________________
Scene Project & Production Book
__________ / 50 points
DRAMATURGY
(Researching Given Circumstances)
PLAY: ________________________________ FOCUS: ________________________________
DIRECTIONS:
 Complete this form as best suits your needs as an actor, director, designer, or other position within
your group.
 The best way to approach Dramaturgy is to ask questions, get curious about everything in the
script, and then go digging. That’s how you find gems that can really grab your imagination and
focus your project. That’s why Given Circumstances and Dramaturgy are likened to digging for
buried treasure!
 Bottom line, you are expected to dig up a minimum of 25 “golden nuggets” that increase your
understanding of the play and your role in the project. Most of all get inspired! Remember advice
from A Practical Handbook for the Actor: Pick an action that is compelling! Well, search out what
makes your part in the project compelling for you!
 Below is a beginning list for Dramaturgy. This list is by no means complete but should be used as
suggestions. There will be some items that have no relevance for you, your play, or job or there are
some items or ideas not listed that may be more relevant that you will discover.
 Think of approaching Dramaturgy as a web search: One item leads you to click on the next, and the
next, and so forth!
 But don’t be just random in your research. Your dramaturgy should be based and focused in the
script, the text. Let the play and Given Circumstances guide you first.
 Then merge what you have found with your natural instincts, curiosity, and imagination!
 AND Dramaturgy doesn’t have to be just text! It can be paintings, photos, music, media,
newspaper clippings, the skies the limit!
 Finally, how are you going to present your Dramaturgy in the Production Book and for the
presentations to the class?
 Remember to create an MLA Works Cited List for all sources used. This must be in your final
Production Book.
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Time
Place
Location
Culture
Geography
Government
Social Standing
Social Structures
Social Customs
Economic Status
Religious Customs
Myths & Legends
Educational Background
Political Circumstances
Familial Relationships
Manners
Foods and Drink
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Architecture
Technology
Fashions in Clothing
Clothing and Accessories
Fashions in Decorating
Props and Accessories
Cultural Figures & Icons
Celebrities and Leaders
Heroes and Models
Music
Art Styles
Headlines of the Day
Humor
Entertainment
Play and Recreation
Sports
Employment
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People, Places, Things,
Ideas, Events, etc.
mentioned in the Play
Other stuff?
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