Rolf Gruber (Age to be played: 17)
Character Description: Rolf is 17 and is the telegram delivery boy friend of Liesl. He is self-important, boasting, a very pleasant young man, and somewhat aggressive but in a gentle way. Rolf has Hitler as his paternal role model and the Nazi regime as a future goal.
Acting Tips:
- Start charming and boyish, then gradually become more rigid and distant
- Study how your posture should change when wearing the Nazi armband
- In "Sixteen Going on Seventeen," show bit of awkwardness as well as confidence
- Practice the transition from friend to threatening Nazi in your final scene
- Look to your past and try to find emotional experiences that you share with Rolf then relive them as you act
- Show inner conflict in your final scene with the family
- Watch clips of Nazi salute.
Historical Context:
The Hitler Youth:
Rolf's character is deeply involved with the Hitler Youth, a Nazi organization used to indoctrinate and train young people in Nazi ideology.
Becoming a member was often seen as a rite of passage for young boys in Nazi-occupied Austria, and it offered them opportunities for social advancement and a sense of belonging.
The organization promoted physical fitness, obedience, and loyalty to Hitler and the Nazi regime.
The appeal of radical ideologies:
For some young people in the 1930s, radical ideologies like Nazism could be appealing due to the social and economic instability of the time.
These ideologies often provided simple solutions to complex problems and offered a sense of purpose and direction to those who felt marginalized or disenfranchised.
Internal conflict:
Rolf's personal journey highlights the internal conflict experienced by some young people who were torn between their personal relationships and their allegiance to the Nazi cause.
Explore inner conflict by examining your character's motivations, fears, and desires, and by considering how his involvement with the Hitler Youth affects his relationships and his sense of self.
Overall Acting Notes:
"The Sound of Music" balances serious historical events with family warmth and musical joy.
Each character contributes to this beloved story about finding courage and staying true to your values, even in difficult times.
Remember that the emotion behind each song is as important as the notes.
Project your voice to the back of the theater.
Articulate clearly, especially at the ends of sentences.
Look at each line and "punch" key words that the audience must hear to understand what you are saying.
React and listen to others when they're speaking, even if you don't have lines.
Make sure the audience can see your face when you're speaking.
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