Keepin' It Real

I enjoyed yesterday's scene. The way I approach each new work is now to

1. Read thru the script a few times
2. Read thru my part a few times
3. Read thru ONLY the OTHER part a few times
4. Make sure I have a grasp of what the OVERALL STORY is
5. And then, try to memorize.

I am continually surprised by how much I can memorize and hold on to for a few hours, which is good. One thing that is really sticking for me, however, is to make sure that I'm not focused on just my part, or counting my lines. I have to know the whole story, but more importantly, know AND listen to what the other person is saying. So many little things can/will be discovered if you are focused on doing that. Then it becomes more about a very real reaction, as opposed to producing a result.

What was hilarious and fascinating for me, was my response. It was a script about a dead body, but the logic of the character's story was quite laughable. And I just went with. I figured, it was something that was honestly happening within me. And, in all honesty, I figured that, at the very least, it's the kind of take that would be remembered. I just trusted what was happening and went with my gut.

Additionally, what I think it is important to make sure you have a different take in mind. One that is grounded in the text/scrip nonetheless. Having options for a director is smart. It is a part of the homework.

Other things I noticed.

• People look better, and tell more honest stories, when they are relaxed as actors (not necessarily as characters)
• I responded more to people who had an investment in something. It didn't need to be intense, but you can't just be in the scene "chillin". Something in the scene should have an impact on you.
• I look good in hoops, a hat, and a jacket. (LOL) 
• The more you stop trying to do, the better. For instance, I got REALLY distracted by people overly using their hands.
• MEMORIZE THE DAMN LINES. I know there are often a lot lines to know but... actors need to get better at memorizing. Simply put. I totally checked out when people had to keep looking down to pick up lines from their scripts. We NEED to see the actor's eyes and if your eyes are on the ground, people stop caring about you. I start to see the artifice, the "acting", as opposed to real moments.  

PS. SIDE BAR: 

1. [I realize that I haven't been putting my notes from the book in the posts so I'll go back to my notes and add them all in a post]
2. I am thinking that the person I use will be a combination of Whoopi Goldberg and someone else