1. Anna Deavere Smith, a contemporary playwright and actor, "uses solo performance as a public medium to explore issues of race, identity and community in America" (http://www.ted.com/speakers/anna_deavere_smith.html). She begins the performance we are about to watch by sharing with the audience that her grandfather used to say, "If you say a word often enough, it becomes you." What do you think this phrase means? In what ways is it true? How might it relate to the monologues you are going to write and perform? Write for 5 min in your notebook.
2. Smith interviewed more than 2,000 across the United States in order to capture the American experience. She performed monologues based on 4 of the people she interviewed. As you watch this performance ( http://www.ted.com/talks/anna_deavere_smith_s_american_character.html ), notice and write down; pause after each character to take notes:
2. Smith interviewed more than 2,000 across the United States in order to capture the American experience. She performed monologues based on 4 of the people she interviewed. As you watch this performance ( http://www.ted.com/talks/anna_deavere_smith_s_american_character.html ), notice and write down; pause after each character to take notes:
- What do you think, feel, and know about each character? What are some of each character's most important ideas? What do you learn from each character?
- Studs Terkel:
- Paulette Jenkins
- Mrs. Young-Soon Han
- Brent Williams
- How does ADS portray her characters?
- What does her work show about the goals, techniques, and difficulties of creating and performing a monologue?
- What was your personal experience watching this video? Which parts did you find most interesting/least interesting? Why?
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