1. Stage Directions:
* Character Actions: "He *walks* slowly to the window and stares out."
* Character Movement: "She *crosses* to the table and picks up a letter."
* Sound Effects: "*Footsteps echo* in the hallway."
* Setting Description: "*The room is dimly lit.*"
2. Thought or Narration:
* "He thinks to himself, *What have I done?* "
* "A voice whispers, *You can't escape your past.*"
3. Emphasis:
* "I *will* not give up!"
* "This is the *most* important decision of my life."
Why Italics?
* Clarity: Separates stage directions from dialogue, making the script easier to read and understand.
* Direction: Provides clear instructions for actors and directors.
* Emphasis: Highlights important information or inner thoughts.
Note: Playwrights may use different conventions for stage directions. Sometimes they use parentheses ( ), brackets [ ], or simply regular font. It's important to check the specific play's formatting to ensure you understand the playwright's intention.