For those new to acting, landing the first role, taking a first acting class, or even starting self-study can be daunting. One of the most important skills for a new actor to learn is how to get in character, or assume the role of the person he or she is to portray. This short series of easy exercises will help a beginner feel more comfortable getting into character. These exercises may be completed alone, in a journal/blog, or with others/a partner. It is recommended that you do what is most comfortable.
Myself as an Actor: People are constantly in character. We always present various sides of ourselves depending on the others we are around and the circumstances in which we find ourselves. Though we don't usually think of this as acting, it can be a helpful tool for self-reflection.
The Exercise: Make a list of various roles you play in life. If you aren't sure where to start, think about your typical day. Many people assume a family role, school/work role, and a social role at least. Then, list one way you feel when you are in that role and one thing you find yourself typically saying.
An example list might look like this:
Role: Daughter Feeling: Responsible Phrase: "It's not my fault."
Role: Editor Feeling: Creative Phrase: "I always make my deadlines."
Role: Girlfriend Feeling: Loved Phrase: "You're my hero."
Role: Friend Feeling: Competitive Phrase: "Really, I'm pretty much awesome."
Role: Student Feeling: Confident Phrase: "Just call me Hermione!"
After your list has been compiled, reflect on the following questions:
1) Would I feel and say some of those things when in a different role? Why or why not?
2) Do I dress differently or use different body language when I am in different roles?
3) Do the people I see when I am in different roles call me different things (Honey, Mr./Mrs. Smith/Shortened nickname)?
Myself as an Actor: People are constantly in character. We always present various sides of ourselves depending on the others we are around and the circumstances in which we find ourselves. Though we don't usually think of this as acting, it can be a helpful tool for self-reflection.
The Exercise: Make a list of various roles you play in life. If you aren't sure where to start, think about your typical day. Many people assume a family role, school/work role, and a social role at least. Then, list one way you feel when you are in that role and one thing you find yourself typically saying.
An example list might look like this:
Role: Daughter Feeling: Responsible Phrase: "It's not my fault."
Role: Editor Feeling: Creative Phrase: "I always make my deadlines."
Role: Girlfriend Feeling: Loved Phrase: "You're my hero."
Role: Friend Feeling: Competitive Phrase: "Really, I'm pretty much awesome."
Role: Student Feeling: Confident Phrase: "Just call me Hermione!"
After your list has been compiled, reflect on the following questions:
1) Would I feel and say some of those things when in a different role? Why or why not?
2) Do I dress differently or use different body language when I am in different roles?
3) Do the people I see when I am in different roles call me different things (Honey, Mr./Mrs. Smith/Shortened nickname)?
One of the most important skills for a new actor to learn is how to get in character.
Comments
A really interesting piece. You're right about people being in character all the time. I do this every day as I wear different hats. At home I am Papa to a nearly 4-year old girl, someone who somehow can do no wrong in her eyes. At work I am the leader of my department, mostly serious but able to have fun with other employees as the situation permits. I've been the host of my radio show for over 38 years, and this is yet another persona, and I've had to keep the show lively even in the face of grave events. Deep down, I believe most people have the ability to mold themselves to any given situation, it's just that some people can't believe they have this function.
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