What was Dennis Kelly intentions for DNA?
When asked what inspired Kelly to write DNA: ‘It was to do with Western Foreign policy. At the time we were becoming increasingly scared of terrorism. I felt that our fear meant we were in danger of over reacting and curbing our own liberties and the liberties of others.
What is the structure of DNA by Dennis Kelly?
The play follows a repeated structure with regards to the setting and who appears within each setting. The Street: Jan and Marks scenes in The Street introduce the audience to what has been happening to the characters and then prepare us for the action that is to come in the group scenes (Scene 3 in each act).
What type of character is Richard in DNA?
Richard is a member of the group of teens at the center of the play who, in spite of appearing intimidating and even potentially violent at the beginning of the play, becomes calmer and more introspective as its events unfold.
When did Dennis Kelly first perform DNA?
2007
Dennis Kelly is a British scriptwriter for theatre, television and film. His play DNA, first performed in 2007, became a core set-text for GCSE in 2010 and has been studied by approximately 400,000 students each year.
What is the plot of the play DNA?
DNA was written in 2007 and is set in the early 21st Century. It’s about a group of teenagers, who could be described as a ‘gang’ who have accidently killed one of their classmates. When they realise their mistake, they try to cover up the crime but inadvertently implicate an innocent man.
How does Kelly present violence in DNA?
In DNA, Kelly warns of the vicious cycle of cruelty and abuse that can occur when peer pressure and groupthink engender violent bullying and deception.
How many characters does Dennis Kelly have in DNA?
eleven characters
There are eleven characters in the play: Mark and Jan; Leah and Phil; Lou, John Tate and Danny; Richard; Cathy and Brian and a boy (Adam). However, although the author has given the characters names and gender, he has made a note allowing performers to change names and gender to suit their own preference.
How does Kelly present Phil?
His speech/ monologue takes the same structure as Leah’s. He seemingly talks about something unrelated to the group, attempts something physical to gain Phil’s attention (walking on his hands), then brings his thoughts back to the actual situation they are in by discussing what has happened to the group.
Who was Dennis Kelly?
Dennis Kelly is a British scriptwriter for theatre, television and film….
| Dennis Kelly | |
|---|---|
| Born | Barnet, London, England |
| Occupation | Playwright, film and television scriptwriter |
| Education | Finchley Catholic High School |
| Alma mater | Goldsmiths College, University of London |
How was DNA originally performed?
For DNA the video had a forensic quality slowly moving through and exploring the spaces in which the play is set including a wood and a playing field. The three plays had quite a few different locations so the use of video allowed the action to flow uninterrupted by scene changes.
Is Adam killed in DNA?
Scene 3: Adam is alive and has been living in a hedge. He has survived by living off dead animals. He has clearly sustained a head injury. Phil instructs Jan, Mark and Lou to leave and not say anything.
What type of character is Jan in DNA?
chorus
Mark and Jan These characters act as the ‘chorus’ or narrators. They throw the audience directly into the action at the beginning of each Act and are useful as they fill in any blanks for us.