31 Oct Playful Choices
Acting is a very complex craft. Not only do lines need to be memorized, marks need to be hit, but emotions need to be discovered. Not only emotion, but tone, pacing, and more.
Thus, this all rests on the actor. The actor creates every choice the character discovers on camera or on stage.
When making choices, consider options from all angles. Serious choices can be successful, but what about those choices are a little more…playful? Creating a playful choice can be a great way to stand out in an audition.
It can also create a side of a character the buyer does not necessarily expect, but one that they might enjoy.
Consider the portrayal of a character and determine how the character should be played, may be played, and how you’d like the character to be played. Determine what makes each of these different.
However, If the choices are the deciding factor, find the ones that are more, as mentioned above, playful.
There are many definitions of the word playful. And that is the correct answer. Playful can mean a lot of different things, and that is what makes each actor’s experience and perspective unique. This is how auditions and performances create many different takes on a character.
Each actor has their own definition of the word playful. They are all correct based on that individual’s perspective, journey, and destination.
That being said, a playful choice may not always be the right choice. However, it is often not considered as a choice. When it is not considered, there may be something missing from a performance.
Sometimes, a playful choice is the right piece to fit that specific puzzle. Sometimes, the piece doesn’t quite work.
What works, however, is considering all options – including playful choices.
More on Brad’s thoughts here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUVQTlfT5Ws