The actors instrument is something actors may have heard before, especially if they study the Meisner acting technique. While directors and actors are sometimes at odds due to creative differences, the truth is actors are the instruments, the components, that make up a successful production with a director as a conductor. Creative differences may find actors and directors at odds, but the actors are the instruments directors use somewhat like a conductor to tell a story. The vision of the writer and director cannot be realized unless talented actors are able to use their actors instrument and make that vision truthful and real. Actors who have worked hard to develop their actors instrument are the ones who most often enrich a story, by bringing complex, interesting characters to the vision.
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Making beautiful sounds is the instrument’s created purpose, while actors use not only sound but physical characteristics and other very subtle forms of expression that are uniquely human. Expressions, both internal and external, are what Meisner technique actors work hard to develop and integrate into an “instrument” they can use as actors. The aspects of the actors instrument can be grouped into six general categories known as Sensory expression, Imagination, Intelligence, Physical expression, Empathy and emotion. These aspects of the instrument all need to be assessed and developed by an actor if they are to master at the craft. By working on them all, and using them to create fascinating characters and powerful performances, the best actors have creating lasting impressions.
Every actor has their own unique physical way of expressing themselves and an awareness of the physical space around them. Meisner acting in nyc helps actors to fully explore their habits of physical expression and movement, and how that differs from that of a character and how that can be used to improve your versatility in any performance setting. Theatre requires a different movement technique than physical expression for film. As an actor you must have studied physical expressions in depth to be able to adjust for new situations and roles.
Personality actors can be very successful, translating a personality they have developed into many characters over the course of their careers. Take a moment and you can probably think of several working actors in this category. Developing a charismatic personality, one that intrigues an audience is an important aspect of the instrument. Great actors have the ability to use physical expression to completely alter their appearance by using facial, and body movement. Think of award winners Meryl Streep, Daniel Day Lewis or Johnny Depp.
Physical expression, when mastered, has given us the likes of Jim Carrey, John Wayne and Jodie Foster. Actors that have an ability to develop and project strong physical characteristics to express character can handle any role. Actors who know how to move and express themselves physically in many different ways to create different characters has gone even deeper into their craft.
It is not simply a matter of walking differently or changing a facial expression to portray a feeling. This is the art of existing in a completely altered reality, an imaginary physical world, and expressing physical aspects of a character even when standing still. A great actor is one who has not only mastered the art of physical space and expression but can use it to reflect all other aspects of the instrument. The most versatile actors have worked hard to develop this. There are charismatic actors in abundance but, over the long haul it may not be enough to keep you working. Master physical expression, and the use of physical space to tell a story and enrich the other aspects of your actors instrument and you will be on your way to becoming great.
The Maggie Flanigan Studio provides acting classes in NYC for serious actors. Find out more about meisner acting nyc at the studio website or read this article about emotional preparation.