Compass Theatre Company

Acting has few barriers to entry. Sure like any other profession, one person might be more naturally predisposed towards a life on stage or in front of the camera, but that doesn’t mean someone can’t learn the skill. What’s stopping you from acting? These are the surprising responses we here most oftenI’m not good looking enough. Acting isn’t modeling. Even if it was, there’s still plus size modeling, but looks actually have little to do with the performance you are capable of on stage. Looks by play an important part in casting; however, this is merely to match you with the appropriate character, not an indictment on potential. Consider the celebrities in Hollywood, sure there are the glamor guys and gals, but in every movie there are plenty of relatable characters you would otherwise pass on the street without taking any notice. One adverse effect of not thinking you are good looking enough is a lack of confidence. To perform in front of an audience or camera takes a level of self assuredness that betrays some people, regardless of physical appearance. I’m not funny. When on stage accepting his 2008 MTV Movie Award for Favorite Comedic Performance, Johnny Depp told the crowd he wasn’t funny, which, to everyone watching, was kind of funny. Comedy isn’t always intentional. Mannerisms, inflection, personality, the funny gene hinges on a lot of things that evoke laughter sometimes unbeknownst to the performer. You don’t have to be trying to be funny to be funny within the context of your role and some roles aim for gasps rather than laughs anyway. What is commanded is a control over emotions and an ability to manifest a particular feeling to the audience. Humor is just one of many such emotions.I freeze up in front of people. (more…)