ppconcept

//Words, Words, Words //is a play by David Ives that is centered on the lives of three monkeys, Kafka, Swift, and Milton, who have been placed in a sort of prison/cage. They are provided typewriters, as part of an experiment, in hopes that eventually they will produce //Hamlet//. The play enjoys some comedy as the monkeys work to produce //Hamlet//, at times do, and yet are completely unaware that the work they are doing is correct. With no awareness of what //Hamlet// is, they are frustrated and upset that nothing they create seems to be correct. Ironically, much of it is, they are simply unaware.
 * For ** **WORDS, WORDS, WORDS**, by David Ives

In this work, I would like to see the concept be like a hospital waiting room. These monkeys are unhappy with the situation to say the least. The sense of urgency needs to be felt, along with the discomfort, dissatisfaction, and passion. These emotions need to be portrayed through the performance.

In regards to the acting, I think this can be accomplished through focused energy by the actors. It is the job of these individuals to portray the distaste that these monkeys feel for the situation. It is crucial that they show no knowledge of being anywhere near on the mark with the work of creating of //Hamlet//. These characters are upset, angry, and quarrelsome. The portrayal of this sense of dissatisfaction is an important part of the production.

Design can accomplish this by arranging the set in such a way that we sense the clutter, disorganization, and frustration at the present situation. Disheveled appearances in the costumes of the characters can help to get this point across. Lighting can also help accomplish this through the establishment of a laboratory-type setting. The monkeys are part of an experiment. Helping to foster this idea through numbing, fluorescent lighting is crucial.

Advertising can help to relay this concept to potential audience members through playing to the irony of the production while also commenting on the absurdity of the whole situation. Advertisement that highlights this absurdity, along with the frustration of the chimps and the humor of it all, is needed. Programs and flyers need to contain imagery that works to engage the layperson while also revealing the underlying comedic entertainment that the piece provides.