Actors use gestus to enhance the emotional impact of scenes and create a visceral connection with the audience. Gestus can be subtle or broad, ranging from a simple gesture of the hand to a complex sequence of movements. Through gestus, actors can portray their characters' thoughts, feelings, and intentions without relying solely on dialogue.
Gestus also serves as a means of expression for the director and the playwright to convey thematic elements and symbols in the performance. The choice and execution of gestus are intentional and contribute to the overall artistic vision of the production. Gestus can be naturalistic or stylized, and it can be employed in various dramatic forms, including plays, musicals, operas, and performance art.
Gestus is closely linked to the concept of Verfremdungseffekt (distancing effect) in Bertolt Brecht's epic theater. Brecht used gestus to create critical distance between the audience and the characters, allowing them to observe and critically analyze the social and political themes.
In essence, gestus in drama is a significant tool for actors, directors, and playwrights to convey meaning, emotion, and complex ideas through physical expression and gestures.