QUICK TIPS
How to Create a Convincing Character
11 steps for building your character
(By AM Staff)
(Photo: Cottonbro | Pexels)
What is it called when an actor is in character? It is simply called “being in character.” It’s a state of being, after an actor has done all of their preparation work.
That means learning your lines and getting off book. It means understanding your character’s given circumstances. It means getting into the skin of your character until you become one with your character.
There are lots of ways to get into character. While every actor has their own process, here are some quick tips to try for yourself.
* Your script has lots of buried details about your character. So, start digging!
* When you get your sides, always read your lines AND the lines of the other characters. Information about your character can be found in both.
* Figure out your character’s “prequel” and your character’s “sequel”. In other words, where were they years ago and where will they be years from now.
* Your sides usually only find your character where they currently are. It is up to you, as an actor, to discover where your character is coming from…and where they are going.
* Do an imaginary interview with your character. Get to know the person you are about to become.
* What motivates your character to get out of bed in the morning? You must know the answer to that question and use it.
* What’s your character’s relationship like with their parents? What’s their educational background? What does your character love more than anything? These are important questions you should answer.
* What type of music does your character listen to? One way to connect with your character is to pick 5 songs that you know your character would love listening to.
* What is your character’s objective in the scene? What obstacle is preventing your character from achieving this objective?
* It’s your job, as an actor, to build the inner life of your character. The choices you make about your character determines that.
*Your character’s life doesn’t end when they exit the scene. Give the audience the impression that your character is going somewhere, even if they can’t join you.
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