Factoring in Facial Expressions
Successfully auditioning means successfully projecting the proper facial expressions as you recite your lines. You’ll want to connect with the piece before you in a way that these emotions will be reflected nonverbally. If you read the script monotone or don’t add enough depth, it’ll be hard for an audience to find the performance believable.
Remember, the goal of acting it to really identify with the character you’re hoping to play and be able to express what’s inside of you rather than creating something from scratch on the outside. You have to go inward and dig deep to truly feel what this fictional person feels. Once you’re able to master this, your facial expressions will naturally respond.
It can be difficult to hide anxiety on the stage. And this is why it is important to practice ahead of time. You’ll want to recite the lines in front of a mirror to check for any weak spots that may need tweaking. Of course, it’ll be a bit different when you can’t study your reflection while speaking, but this is a good way to see what you’re projecting while you’re reading through the script. You can focus on the words first, then add depth by infusing emotion into these words. Run through the lines several times until you feel you’ve nailed it.
To connect through the eyes, body language, facial expressions, and emotions means connecting with the character at a level in which you empathize with this person and believe in what they’re trying to say. You’ll need to thoroughly immerse yourself in order to create the most believable character possible.
Acting is not as easy as it may seem when you’re watching your favorite films and television shows. It is a specialized craft to be mastered and this is why there are an elite few that have elevated to superstardom. Being able to align your emotions and expressions with words on a page is a great place to start. It means having the ability to go within and understand yourself as well as who you’re hoping to portray. What are your strengths and where is there opportunities for growth?
It’s true – practice makes perfect. Don’t get frustrated if you’re not satisfied with what you see and hear the first time you attempt to get into character. Note what you’ll need to work on and adapt. Eventually, it will be second nature.
