Listed below are some of the guidelines that Adjudicators follow when attending productions on behalf of the Cornwall Drama Association.

STAGE PRESENTATION

THE SET

• Is it functional and is it stable?
• Does it enhance or overwhelm the production?
• Is it user-friendly for the actors and crew?
• If hired, has it been adapted to suit the venue and the group?

PROPERTIES

• Are they usable?
• Are they of the correct period?
• Can they be seen easily from the back of the auditorium?
• Are they accurate?
• Do they liven up a scene?

LIGHTING

• Does the lighting plot enhance the production?
• Have you ensured no actors are out of light?
• Can faces be clearly seen?
• Are cues/fades/blackouts on time?
• Is the lighting comfortable for the audience? i.e. not flashing or blazing in their eyes?

SOUND AND EFFECTS

• Is the balance right for the audience?
• In Musicals is the balance of amplified instrumental and vocal sound well judged for the audience?
• Are personal mics set at the right level and well controlled?
• Can the singers be heard?
• Are SFX audible, suitable and on time?

MEDIA DESIGN

• Is it appropriate?
• does it contribute?
• is it effective?

COSTUMES AND MAKEUP

• Do the costumes fit?
• Are they appropriate to the period and character?
• Are they well accessorised?
• Is the footwear and headgear suitable for the period?
• Is the level of makeup appropriate for the size of venue?
• Is ‘unusual’ makeup well applied?
• Is hair and/or wigs appropriately dressed for the production?

STAGE DIRECTION

• Has the director interpreted the intentions of the playwright and presented clear development of the plot?
• Has buildup of the plot been achieved?
• Have good climaxes been presented?
• Was there evidence of good teamwork?
• Was there evidence of each cast member having been given good direction?
• Was there sufficient rehearsal – especially of comic stage business?
• Have there been good groupings and levels on stage?
• Was there clear visibility and audibility for the audience?
• Has timing, pace and attack been good?

MUSICAL DIRECTION

• In Musicals, did the choice of music suit the cast and the production?
• Was the accompanying music at a suitable level for the performers and audience?
• Was the chorus work/ensemble/soloists’ music well chosen to ensure good performances?
• For recorded music, was the balance of sound good?

DANCE DIRECTION

• Was the content and variation of dance/movement suitable for the cast and the production?
• Was it well rehearsed?
• Did the overall presentation of dance add value to the production?
• Was there suitable matching of movement to song/music/cast members?

INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCE

• Was there good characterisation/body language/facial expression?
• Good projection of speech and song?
• Was there good variety of tone and pace of delivery?
• Did the individual use the stage space well? Did he/she respond well to cueing?
• Was there good teamwork with fellow cast members?
• Was there sincerity and honesty in his/her performance?

ENDEAVOUR, ORIGINALITY and ATTAINMENT

• Was the piece suitable for the group and venue?
• Was there energy and dedication from the team?
• Was the production successful as a whole?
• Did it have a positive impact on the audience
• Was there something about this production that lifted it above the norm?