SceneStation - Notes On Campfire

Campfire is a scene that will stretch the actors emotionally and physically. This scene requires both actors to make clear transitions from one strong emotional state to the next. The inner monologue will need to be strong. Rick's transitions occur, mainly on the information he gets from Jamie while Jamie's transitions occur, as he processes the consequences of his actions and as he deals with Rick's interventions.

The actor playing Rick will first have to work with the obligations of a heavy night's drinking and partying. The scene is set outside in the early morning. Rick wakes amongst the detritus of the night's activities. He calls for Jamie and Billy and is clearly frustrated at having run out of whiskey and cigarettes. From this state of frustration he moves to amusement as Jamie enters.

The character of Rick goes through a series of transitions in the scene. His gear changes are clear and the challenge for the actor is to mark these with strong choices.

His action is always 'to find out' and his need clearly deepens throughout the scene. The more Rick comes to understand about the situation the more intent he becomes on getting answers from Jamie.

Rick's action is clear. Once he realises the importance of the situation he clearly takes charge of the quivering wreck that is Jamie. He goes through a systematic process to ascertain everything that occurred; he doesn't just charge off to look for his brother, which tells us something about his character. While on the other hand Jamie is barely keeping it together.

The actor playing Jamie has the opportunity to explore the state of shock and terror. This is an interesting acting challenge; if the emotional state overwhelms the actor it will be difficult for the actor playing Rick to get the information he needs. This points to the edge this scene must find. The actor playing Rick must be made to work hard to get the information he needs - time is of the essence - it might still be possible to save Billy. But not if Rick doesn't know exactly what happened and where he is.

The tension between Jamie's need to escape the reality of the situation and Rick's sheer determination to know the reality of the situation, is immense. This scene provides us with a great example of how dramatic tension propels the story. The actors must work to maintain the tension while not letting the intensity overtake them, which would result in the scene descending into an incomprehensible yelling match.