Remember in Victorian Melodrama, all emotion is externalised. There is no such thing as inner psychological depth!
Generally this means “Over the Top” in every way. Here are some techniques which help create this affect.
Slower clearer delivery of lines with huge projection. Remember Victorian Theatres were huge and there were no microphones.
Play everything to the audience, even if you are supposed to be talking to another character on stage! Indicate whom you are talking to by looking sideways at them and holding your hand out towards.
The Pose: Invent poses of shock, horror, love, evil, intent, cruelty, desire, dilemma, forgiveness, begging forgiveness etc. A pose should last at least three seconds and should be clearly visible from fifty metres.
Address the audience directly whenever the script will allow you to do so.
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The working yourself up to the pose: lasts two to three seconds --let's see you getting there!
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The Gasp - very loud expressing a range of emotions. Often accompanied by a pose.
The Pacing- to and fro across the stage when hatching a plan or in a dilemma. Move before you speak so that the audience can track
The Swoon - often preceded by lines such as "Alas! I can hardly bear it." The swoon should be graceful and provision should be made for someone to catch you._
The long walk downstage/upstage/across stage when hatching a plan or in a dilemma.
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