is a play set in a thrust kind of physical stage setting. It begins with a series of events of the characters of the play coming to stage one by one or in two and the stage director comes in so fast as if late for the event. A repeated melody from behind stage creates a harmonious effect with the happenings at the stage. The audience however is very close to the stage happenings and this creates a connection of intimacy between the audience and the characters.
The play is about a circle of people who try to solve rivalry in and among a loyal family. The outfit of the actors portrays the tastes of rich people; namely, the princess, the prince and the servants. Most conversations are seen to be comic and at the same time portraying the indifferences among the characters. The stage itself is brightly lit with appealing bright colors that go in hand with the outfit of the actors. However, the outfit represents the tradition of a certain community since modernity in dressing is not portrayed. There is also a very large and appealing painting of nature with beautiful watercolor on the stage; it fits the decorations perfectly and brings out the beauty of the stage lighting.
Each scene was prepared with dim lights as the requirements were brought in considering the aspect of time, thus being relatively fast but long enough to give the audience enough time to prepare for the next scene. Assets brought to the stage had been carefully selected. The doors on stage were the most spectacular detail for me; in addition to the roles played and the way the performance felt real.
The actors in the Rival played their roles perfectly and one thing led to another. Voice alternation in regard to what is being said can be clearly displayed: high and low, the intonations, burst outs as the arguments and conversations get tough. Whenever a character is left on the stage, he or she directs the audience. Wide use of physical drama is also evident; for example, crying out kneeling near the door for forgiveness. Emotions of joy and anger are properly distinguished where some of the characters kick and slap those of lesser authority than them.
Each scene in the play brings certain meaning; for example, the first scene is the introduction of the play. The second, third, fourth, and fifth develop the subject matte at a great length, while the sixth and the last scene are to solve the conflict arising over the previous scenes and to come up with a solution to unite the characters of the play despite their differences.
In the sixth scene the play ends with an amazing dance. This is a confirmation of love developed and conflict issues solved. Dancing in pairs, the characters perform a dance where only instrumentals are played along with the sound of their steps on the stage and the clapping of hands to bring out an amazing rhythm. The audience, however, joins in with shouts and applauses representing a happy and successful ending of the play.
The play as whole is an interesting ordeal. The production of the play was properly planned and designed. The performance is therefore an interesting and enjoyable show with great variety of not only characters but also the music and the lighting of the stage.
