Writing an effective play review requires time and care, as the review may influence whether people choose to see the play. The review should concisely summarize key details like the who, what, where, and when of the play, and provide commentary on elements such as the casting, plot, themes, styles, costumes, sets, directors, memorable quotes, and the reviewer's overall opinion on what they liked and suggest areas for improvement. An effective play review also comments on the acting, characterization, background music, and any technical mishaps during the performance.

1. How to Write a Play Review
Writing a play review is something that must be done with much time and care. People will read the
review and it may affect their decision to go/not go to the play you are writing about.
1. Include the following: who, what, where, and when.
2. Write about the casting. Was it well cast or poorly cast? Who were the students/people that were cast? Why
do you think they cast it the way they did?
3. Write about the plot. Include a plot description! (If you need help, you can look for one on the internet). Was
the plot interesting? Boring? Sad? Funny? Romantic? Cheesy? Unrealistic?
4. Consider the theme of the show. What elements make up that theme?
5. Think about the style of the play. How can you tell the type of style this play has? Is there more than one
style choice?
6. Comment on the costumes. Did they fit the character? Who designed them?
7. Comment on the set. Does the set add something extra to the play? Who designed/worked on the set? Make
sure to give credit!
8. Talk about the director(s). Try to get an in with them.
9. Discuss memorable quotes. List several examples and explanations about why they are memorable.
10. Give your own opinion. Say what you like and don't like about the play and maybe suggest some
improvements.
11. Talk about the use of levels and acting techniques and how it made the play more memorable and
understanding for you.
12. Comment on the characterization. Any accents you found particularly good, emotions you thought were
realistic?
13. Talk about the background music. Does it contribute to the performance or does it ruin the moment? Talk
about any flaws in the music or mistakes as well.
14. Were there any mishaps such as sound effects didn't happen, someone forgetting a line, or an image and
sound that weren't synchronized? How were these fixed?
15. Type the review and feel free to do what you wish with it!
Tips
• Don't forget about a catchy introduction and a good conclusion!
• Add your name at the bottom.