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Forums  >  Film-making  >  Opening the Door
Author Post
stace
at 14:29, 21 Sep 2006
Posts: 1
Opening the Door
I need acting workshops so casting directors and directors can see me perform,when i audition my speech is too fast i rush and become miss heard. when presure is applied in a real situation i can perform but when asked to act in the moment i become still, my memory blank and i feel helpless. im not afraid of been good just what may happen when i become good.... how do i despose of the unneccesary fear and channel the energy in to possitive emotion rather than eratic fear???? any suggestions???
sally potter
at 03:14, 17 Oct 2006
Posts: 193
REPLY
Auditions are a strange art form. The actor can feel humiliated, judged by unclear standards, unsure whether to push him or herself forward, try to resemble the part being cast, or, on the contrary, hold back and ‘be himself’. Whatever that is.
The casting director and director, meanwhile, are often exhausted, anxious, well aware of the discomfort of the actor, trying to be decent human beings and yet, ultimately, ruthless in pursuit of the right choice for the part.
In my experience there are many factors which make an audition work. It is always a relief when an actor is un-defensive, has a sense of humour, is willing to do anything (no false ‘pride’) and has an awareness of the job the director is trying to do. That way you feel “there is no resistance here: I can work with this person.” Anything is possible.
But there has to be the right fit for the role as well – or the right look, or age and so on – and these factors may mean an actor is turned down for the part despite it being clear that he or she is excellent in every way.
So try not to take any rejections personally. A meeting is never wasted. One remembers a face, a warm encounter. I have often called people back for something else, another time, another film.
Think of it as a meditation: an exercise in being fully present, detached yet open. And give everything you can. By doing that you will find out who you are.
sally potter
at 04:43, 19 Oct 2006
Posts: 193
P.S.
On re-reading your message I see that there is a lot of emphasis on doing and fear of just being. I think it may be useful for you to take attention away from your 'doingness'...ie stop worrying about your 'performance' and put your attention on the other people in the room. in that way you will come into the present and 'be', which is the quality most directors are looking for on film.
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