NOVEL NEXT 84. performance exercises.
There are distinct rules in acting, but all of them revolve around the idea that actors have recipes to achieve the desired outcome. Many of these methods are determined by teachers, retired actors, scholars, and academics. All the teaching methods have been structured and converged into acting manuals. Given the short duration of the course, only three special methods recommended by Professor Susan can be taught.
At the University of San Jose, in a special acting course offered at certain intervals, Professor Susan is part of the program to impart her acting skills to the world, even though she didn't achieve as much success as she had hoped in her career.
-Among the initial teachings is the classic approach used in the industry, the method of acting. This is one of the most classic and successful acting forms that stand out. This method involves immersing our emotions into an experimental idea, experiencing the role as if it were a real person, and connecting the actor's own emotions with those of the character. It can lead to a disorientation of one's perception of reality. - said Susan.
Usually, only a skilled actor can blend method acting with vocal and physical techniques. Method acting would typically lead to success in any performance, but if you combine it with not just strong physical and vocal techniques, you could easily rank in the top 5% of actors in the world.
We've been practicing vocal and physical techniques throughout the course, so I believe these techniques form the foundation for any actor. Even if you solely focus on vocal and physical techniques, you could still achieve considerable success. - Susan continued.
The entire auditorium was engrossed in the dialogue of the teacher. This was one of the best classes of the semester due to the significance of these methods.
-Well, the second acting approach is the Chekhov Method, based on emotional, physical, and psychological connection. It could be termed as working on your role, delving into imagination, physical technique, and the artist's inner self. This method seeks naturalness through deep reflection and internalizing the role of an actor. It's one of the most used methods, created by Michael Chekhov, an actor who reached the pinnacle of success through his skills. -
This method requires an exceptionally refined physical technique to execute, akin to a profound study of the role. It involves understanding the character's emotions, representing them in the performance, and knowing the role inside out. - Susan explained.
Cameron, who was sitting at the bottom, eagerly raised his hand.
-Yes, Mr. Cameron. -
-I have a question, why aren't physical and vocal performances sufficient? - Cameron asked.
-Well, naturalness, Mr. Cameron. In this century, basic techniques only serve for professional acting, but truly immersing oneself in a role requires something more important capturing the audience's approval and engagement. Connecting with the audience is our most crucial task. - Susan responded.
-Therefore, the last technique is parallel to the Chekhov Method, the Stanislavski Technique. It's the pursuit of the character's emotional truth, exploring the character in specific scenes. The goal is to understand the character to the best of your ability, and from there, delving into the techniques that refine the results becomes straightforward. - Susan continued. - This method is common and relies on academically studying the script through deep reading. It usually requires significant effort to conscientiously comprehend the role and its representation.
Cameron raised his hand again.
-Yes, Mr. Cameron. -
-It seems very similar to the previous method. What's the difference between the Chekhov Method and Stanislavski? - Cameron asked.
-The Chekhov Method focuses more on imagination and the character, while Stanislavski seeks to work on oneself and the role. - Susan clarified.
-Thank you, I think I understand everything perfectly. - Cameron said.
-Well, that's why I'm giving you all five-minute monologues. Each of you must adapt to a specific acting method. You'll have thirty minutes to practice, and we'll fine-tune the method in the upcoming classes. - Susan announced.
She handed out the papers to each student, a stack of about twelve pages for each monologue. The length alone necessitated thorough study, let alone memorizing it perfectly.
His monologue is about a medieval knight heading to war against the Goths to defend his home, even though they outnumber him 4 to 1 and there's a high chance they'll all die. He appears strong in front of his soldiers, but his fear eats at him in solitude.
-At the end of the course, you will present your monologue to the class. If I believe you're good enough, I'll give you a role in a university theater play for August 4th. – said Susan for the class of performance.
(The stage is illuminated by a soft light in a corner, representing the light of dusk. A soldier, played by an actor, stands there, looking forward into the distance. There's a small table with a letter and a framed photograph. Soft, melancholic background music plays, perhaps piano, violin, or cello.)
Soldier: Here I stand, before the horizon that calls me to a duty I cannot ignore. War calls us all, but leaving behind what I love most is a burden upon my heart. Who if not me to protect our home?
(The soldier walks slowly towards the table, picks up the framed photograph, and holds it in their hands, looking at it with a mixture of sadness and affection.)
Soldier: My beloved wife, every time I gaze upon this photograph, I can feel your presence as if you were here with me—a fleeting memory that flickers in my thoughts. It's the love we share that gives me strength.
(The soldier gently places the photograph back on the table and takes the letter, holding it between their fingers as their gaze becomes cloudy.)
Soldier: (Voice quivering) This letter is my way of being with you when I cannot be. Each word written here is a sign of love that transcends distance and time. I promise to return, even though the path is rugged and perilous. Every battle I face, every obstacle I overcome, I do it with the image of your face etched in my mind.
(The soldier falls silent for a moment, their gaze lost on the horizon.)
Soldier: As I venture into the unknown, I carry you with me in every step. Though uncertainty may loom, and fear may attempt to tear at my courage, I know I have a reason to come back. You are my beacon in the darkness, my shelter in the storm.
(The soldier approaches the table, carefully places the letter, and closes their eyes for a moment.)
Soldier: (Determined) My love, no matter how much time passes, my commitment to you will never waver. This war is not just mine; it belongs to all those we love and who fight for a better tomorrow. I promise to return to your embrace, with the sun on my shoulders and peace in my heart.
(The soldier straightens up, gazes once more toward the horizon, and lifts their gaze with determination.)
Soldier: (With resolve) Now, I must go. Every step I take brings me closer to the distance that separates us. Though the path will be rough, and the days may turn dark, I will keep the light of our love burning bright within my heart.
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