大象传媒

Through interviews with the cast and creative team of the National Theatre鈥檚 production of 'The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time', we gain an insight into the use of ensemble acting. We see ensemble acting being used in rehearsal and performance footage. The playwright, Simon Stephens discusses the challenges of casting a play with many characters. The use of an ensemble and multi-role playing gives playfulness to the piece. The ensemble gave the play a sense of theatricality. We see the same actor playing the Reverend and the Policeman.

An ensemble cast member explains the challenges of being in an ensemble including making an impact with a character quickly, and being on stage all the time. Scenes become recognisable through a group of actors all working together to create a moment. This is demonstrated in rehearsal footage. Actors have to make quick choices in their characterisation when they are part of an ensemble. Actors have to be clear and snap in and out of characters to show the distinct differences. Scott Graham, the choreographer, explains how the stylised ensemble in the production represented the nature of Christopher鈥檚 mind, which can be chaotic, until he focuses in on something.