Onstage: Backstage 2005
Distributed by Films Media Group, PO Box 2053, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-2053; 800-257-5126
Produced by Beckmann Visual Publishing
Director n/a
DVD, color, 120 min.
Sr. High - Adult
Stagecraft, Theater Education, Drama
Date Entered: 05/04/2007
Reviewed by Gerald Notaro, University Librarian, Nelson Poynter Memorial Library, University of South Florida, St. PetersburgOnstage, along with Backstage (2005) make up the Stagecraft part of The Arts Collection series. Like its counterpart, the DVD is segmented usefully and can be accessed individually. As with Backstage, public performance rights are included. Chaptered titles include Character Interpretation, Timing and Technique, Stage Management, Writing and Directing for Pantomime, and Was It Alright on the Night. A variety of professionals in their respective areas handles instruction and exercises. The camera work in the group efforts is intimate and inviting. The information is not grade specific. All ages and levels of experience can benefit from both Onstage and Backstage. The acting exercises are in the European tradition, which emphasize the physical over the “method.” Their approach to the arts is more athletic and less cerebral. Even if young viewers do not retain all the information, they will at least realize the hard work acting entails. The importance of everyone learning Stage Management is not overlooked. Writing and Directing for Pantomime may be unfamiliar to American viewers, but chapters are easily skipped. Each chapter stands individually. Even better than Backstage, Onstage is highly recommended for all collections.