How to Write a Technical Theatre Play Review
The review should be written in 12 pt. font,1 inch margins, and be double spaced.
Your play review should include: a signed copy of the program (if not points will be ducted), a
cover sheet and the actual play review.
The cover sheet should include in the center-center:
Your Name
Title of Play
Author of Play
Production Date You Attended
The play review is to be at least a 6 paragraph paper with each paragraph containing at least 5
sentences. DO NOT just answer the questions below. They are a guide to help you write this
paper. The paragraphs should be as follows:
1. Introduction and summary of the plot
2. Evaluate the set - How did it relate to the plot? Was it for the correct time period and mood?
What did the set look like? Were the actors able to use the set easily? What were the colors of
the set? Did they evoke a certain feeling? Did this feeling fit with the production?
3. Evaluate the lighting & sound – How did it relate to the plot? What type of sound was used?
How did the sound help communicate the meaning of the production? Were there special
lighting effects used? Did the lights change at all? How did that help the story?
4. Evaluate the costume – How did it relate to the plot? What type of costuming was used in
the production? Did it help you understand the character?
5. Special effects – Were there major scene changers? Audience participation with the actors?
Machinery?
6. Your personal opinion – Discuss one or more areas of technical theatre in the production. If
you disliked something how would you change it? If you loved it what made you like it.
Points to know:
The word “I” should not be used at any time during this paper. The only paragraph it will be
allowed is in Paragraph 6.
You must validate each of your thoughts. You need to give specific examples for each thing
you state in the paper.
At no time you can discuss the acting of the production. All your answers must be supported
with examples from the production.
When evaluating an area of technical theatre look at the whole production and don’t point out
obvious snafus like “Mike’s microphone was turned up late” or “instead of a doorbell there was
a phone ring”.