The Intent to Live

1. Master the fundamentals of script analysis and character development

Given circumstances are the facts; they are the information that is not subject to debate.

Understand the script. Begin by thoroughly analyzing the given circumstances, which include the character's background, relationships, and the setting of the story. These facts form the foundation of your performance and cannot be ignored or altered.

Identify objectives and obstacles. Determine your character's superobjective (overall goal) and the objectives for each scene. Recognize the obstacles that stand in the way of achieving these goals. This creates the dramatic tension necessary for compelling performances.

Choose active intentions. Select specific actions or behaviors your character employs to overcome obstacles and achieve objectives. These intentions should be expressed as verbs (e.g., to seduce, to intimidate, to plead) and drive your character's moment-to-moment choices in the scene.

2. Develop a rich inner life for your character through imagination and personal experiences

Inner imagery is the thing that makes the audience plug in to their own unconscious.

Create vivid mental images. Develop detailed mental pictures for every experience your character describes or remembers. This inner imagery will make your performance feel more authentic and help the audience connect emotionally with your character.

Use personal experiences. Draw from your own life experiences or create "as if" scenarios to bring emotional depth to your character. This technique, known as emotional memory or substitution, can help you access genuine emotions when needed.

Build a character biography. Construct a detailed backstory for your character, including experiences not explicitly mentioned in the script. This will inform your choices and help you respond authentically in any situation.

3. Embrace physical and vocal techniques to bring your character to life

A volcano in a completely relaxed body.

Develop physical characterization. Explore your character's physicality through techniques like the animal exercise, where you embody an animal that represents your character's essence. This can inform your character's movements, posture, and gestures.

Master vocal techniques. Work on breath control, resonance, and articulation to develop a strong, flexible voice. Experiment with different accents, rhythms, and vocal qualities to create a unique sound for your character.

Understand the demands of different mediums. Adjust your physical and vocal choices for stage, film, and television performances. Stage acting often requires larger, more expressive choices, while film and TV demand subtler, more nuanced performances.

4. Cultivate emotional authenticity and learn to access it on demand

An actor should be a volcano in a completely relaxed body.

Develop emotional triggers. Create a "golden box" of personal memories, images, or scenarios that reliably evoke specific emotions. Practice accessing these triggers quickly and effectively.

Work moment-to-moment. Stay present and responsive to your scene partners, allowing genuine reactions to emerge naturally. Avoid planning your emotional responses in advance.

Balance control and release. Learn to hold back emotions until the right moment, creating tension and anticipation. When emotions do break through, allow them to flow authentically without forcing or indicating.

5. Navigate the nuances of comedy and drama across different mediums

It's not enough to have talent. You have to have a talent for your talent.

Understand comic timing. Develop a sense of rhythm and pacing for comedic performances. Learn to pick up cues quickly and deliver lines with precision to maximize laughs.

Find the truth in comedy. Even in broad comedic roles, root your performance in human truth and genuine stakes. This will make your comedy more relatable and impactful.

Adapt to different styles. Recognize the varying demands of stage, film, and television comedy. Stage often allows for broader choices, while film and TV require more subtle and nuanced performances.

Balance comedy and drama. In dramatic roles, look for opportunities to inject moments of levity or humor. Conversely, in comedic roles, don't shy away from exploring deeper emotional truths.

6. Overcome fear and build confidence through relaxation and preparation

Fear is like a little pug-nosed dog that keeps barking at you, but it's only a little dog with a big bark. All you have to do is kick it and it goes away.

Practice relaxation techniques. Develop a routine of physical and mental relaxation exercises to combat performance anxiety and tension. This will help you access your full range of emotions and physical expressiveness.

Prepare thoroughly. Combat fear through meticulous preparation. Analyze your script, develop your character, and rehearse extensively to build confidence in your choices.

Reframe nervous energy. Learn to channel nervous energy into your performance, using it to fuel your character's objectives and intensify your focus.

Develop a pre-performance ritual. Create a personal routine to center yourself and get into character before performances or auditions. This can help you feel more grounded and confident.

7. Continuously hone your craft through theater, film, and television experiences

Career survival, over the long run, depends on your commitment to developing a command of your craft.

Embrace diverse experiences. Seek out opportunities in theater, film, and television to develop a well-rounded skill set. Each medium offers unique challenges and learning opportunities.

Commit to ongoing training. Regularly attend classes, workshops, and scene study groups to refine your technique and explore new approaches to your craft.

Learn from every role. Approach each character, no matter how small, as an opportunity to grow and expand your range as an actor. Find ways to bring depth and nuance to every performance.

Develop a strong work ethic. Cultivate discipline, professionalism, and a positive attitude. These qualities will serve you well throughout your career and help you navigate the challenges of the industry.

Stay curious and adaptable. Remain open to new techniques, technologies, and trends in the industry. Continuously evolve your approach to acting to stay relevant and engaged in your craft.

Last updated: November 12, 2024