In Thundermuffs, the author uses dramatic elements to enhance the play by creating tension and contrasting characters' emotions regarding storms. This is proven in the play where the family engages in a lively discussion about their excitement for storms, while Mitchell, feeling isolated, sneaks off to his room. This evidence shows the underlying tension within the family dynamic, as Mitchell's fear of storms sets him apart from his enthusiastic relatives, highlighting themes of family support and individual struggles. The dramatic contrast not only deepens character development but also engages the audience as they witness the conflict between fear and joy.
Use the passage to answer the question.
How does the playwright use dramatic elements to enhance the play? Explain your thoughts in 3-5 sentences, using evidence from the passage to support your ideas.
Use these excerpts from the text to help you write your answer:
Thundermuffs
by Cindy Blobaum
THERESA: I know what I'll do. I'll head straight for the porch to watch the clouds build and the lightning flash. I want to get a comfortable chair so I won't have to sit on the floor
MOM: (In warming fone) Only if there are no tornado warnings Remember. "Rain may help our gardens grow, But watch out when the strong winds blow"
OLIVIA: That's right. (Recites) "When the tornado sirens sound, You are safest underground."
RYAN: (Annoyed): We know, we know. (In a singsong voice) And. "When lightning flashes you can see, Never stand under a tall tree
DAD: It's good to hear you kids remember all those sayings. We want you to be safe. (Dramatically) I love to see lightning split the sky and feel the floor shake and hear windows rattle from thunder rumbles as much as everyone else in this family (He suddenly notices MITCHELL.) except for-(All heads turn to look at MITCHELL DAD shakes his head sadly) We need to do something about that boy (MITCHELL becomes aware that everyone is looking at him and slowly lowers his book)
MITCHELL: What? What did I do this time?
STEPHEN (With disgust): You haven't done anything yet
THERESA: No, but I'll bet that at the first sign of a decent thunderstorm, you'll run to one of your hiding places
OLIVIA: Like under your bed
RYAN: Or in a closet
STEPHEN: On. Mitch, aren't you embarrassed that you hate storms when Storm is your own last name?
MITCHELL (Matter-of-factly) I don't hate storms I just like it quiet.
MOM: Now, kids, teasing isn't going to solve anything We're a family. Let's put our heads together and think of a way to help Mitch feel more comfortable during a storm so he'll join us on the porch. (As family members get into a huddle thunder rumbles MITCHELL looks around and sneaks off to bedroom, where he curls up on the bed)
In Thundermuffs, the author uses dramatic elements to enhance the play by __________. This is proven in the play where _________. This evidence shows _________.
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