Ballpark Speech
Ernest and Ernestine are very similar and yet very different. They have been thrust into the world of married life without having a full understanding of what it means to compromise and to constantly co-exist with each other. These characters are very much like clowns, sort of caricatures with exaggerated personalities and movements. The play itself is episodic and was originally developed through improvisation which makes it very conversational with an emphasis on physical comedy. Although this story is rooted in the simplistic interaction of a newly married couple, there is nothing natural about it. It is extremely stylized both in interaction and movement. As you’ll notice when we read through the script, the clown like nature of the piece eliminates the fourth wall and creates a relationship with the audience that is confessional and inclusive. As the story progresses, the relationship that these characters have with the audience diminishes. The story of Ernest and Ernestine explores concepts of anger and love, and what it means to try and repress these feelings. It is a story that everyone can relate to in some way, which gives it a timeless relevance. Once you’ve read the script, think about how you can express these concepts through the physical comedy and exaggerated style. Why and how does this relationship work? How does this story that holds on to so much anger cause us to laugh?
