Creating Characters
Great characters don't just move the story forwards.
They invite our performers to step into another world.
Over the years we've discovered that the characters our cast remember most aren't necessarily the heroes or the villains - they're the ones who feel real. They have hopes, fears and flaws, just like us. Most importantly, they leave room for the performer to make the role their own.
Build People, Not Plot Devices
It's tempting to create characters simply because the story needs them.
Instead, start by asking what drives them.
What do they want?
What are they afraid of?
Why do they make the choices they do?
Even in the most imaginative worlds, audiences connect with recognisable human emotions.
Leave Room for Discovery
One of the greatest joys of writing for London Youth Opera is watching young performers discover things about a character that weren't obvious on the page.
The strongest roles aren't overly defined.
They give performers the space to add their own imagination, personality and interpretation.
That's often where the magic happens on stage - our cast always surprise us with their creativity.
Variety Creates Opportunity
Our company includes around 50–80 performers aged 9–18, so variety matters.
Some roles will carry the main dramatic journey, while others create memorable moments that performers treasure. For example, the Traffic Warden who saves the day in ‘The Little Zombie Girl’.
Across our recent commissions, younger cast members have loved becoming Goblins, circus performers and mischievous characters, while older performers have relished playing Gods, ambitious politicians and brilliant young scientists.
Different ages bring different strengths, and your cast should all have the chance to shine.
Don't Be Afraid of Villains
One thing often surprises new writers.
Our younger performers love playing the villains.
Whether they're mischievous Goblins, chaotic tricksters or wonderfully over-the-top antagonists, these roles give performers the chance to explore character in a playful, theatrical way.
A memorable villain isn't simply “bad”.
They believe they're right, which makes rehearsals fun….!
Questions to Ask Yourself
- 01
Would a young performer be excited to play this role?
- 02
Does every principal character have a clear motivation?
- 03
Is there room for performers to bring something of themselves to the role?
- 04
Does every age group have someone to relate to?
- 05
Would the audience understand why each character makes the choices they do?