A View from the Bridge- Perception of the opening section.
The opening of "A View from the Bridge" shows Alfieri, a central character of the play, standing alone in his office. Alfieri is a lawyer and advices Eddie on certain aspects of his life- whether he follows this advice is a different story. I believe that Alfieri should be played as fairly stern and rational, as he stands for justice in the play- a very important issue and underlying theme. Also referring to accent, he is of Sicilian origin and should therefore have quite a relaxed American accent, as opposed to a number of other characters in the play. .
Sound could be used effectively at the start of the play before the character enters the stage. I would possibly have the "sounds of New York City" playing, for example the sound of traffic and people walking down the busy streets. This would accompany the set very well as it is meant to be a small apartment in the bustle of the city. .
For Alfieri's office I would not construct a box set. Instead I would use a circle of light around a single desk and chair and have Alfieri stand in the centre. I believe that this would create a sense intimacy with the audience, plus radiate his circle of tension. - which is extremely important during his first speech as he is opening up about the important facts, characters and happenings of the play. Towards the end of his speech, Eddie enters the stage. At this point I would put the spotlight on Eddie, whilst keeping the circle of light around Alfieri. This would highlight each character, whilst keeping a distance between them. I feel that this would show Eddie's distance from Justice (this being represented by Alfieri). .
Eddie is Catherine's uncle and guardian and is consequently very protective over her. She is around Eighteen years-old and is therefore unknowingly flirty around the opposite sex. I would highlight this I the character, as this would make her even more shocked when she is finally criticised over the fact by Eddie.
