Recently in Upside Down Mirror Category

The Upside Down Mirror opened at the American Theatre of Actors on 314 West 54th Street, New York City as the as part of the 2006-2007 season of The Riant Theatre. Sadly, it's only a two night run as it's really more of workshop for a new play than something that's really to hit the boards, but -- it's challenge and opportunity enough, and, as always, I'm eternally grateful for the chance and opportunity to learn to become a better actor.

This was the first time I tried to "act" (or rather listen and react) rather than perform, i.e., it was the first time I attempted to put into full practice what I've been learning at Word of Mouth Studios.

What do I mean by perform? Figuring out before hand how I'm going to behave and feel -- see my rehearsal notes for William Inge's Pinic. Some of the background work I did for Howard was great, and a close analysis of what "triggers" Howard's responses was also great, but I went further and decided on what's Howard's action in each beat, and I even decided how I thought Howard felt and acted at particular moments. You can create a good performance this way, but you'll be effectively disconnected from your partner and what's going on in the moment. You'll be polished -- but mechanical.

In terms of acting by listening and reacting, I've been doing much better than I ever have (it's not great, but I'm definitely getting better). Trying to integrate that into what I call raising the stakes and understanding the play -- well, there I felt I was a bit shaky and uneven: some of the scenes and relationships were clear, alive, and in-line with the play, but others were not.

I'm resolved to get GREAT at all of this. It's my dream and drive to be fully alive, living, and true on stage. I'm resolved to work more -- I NEED to work more, to be on stage 3-4 times per year in sizable roles. It's the only way I'm going to get better and better at this -- and that's all I want (well, I want other stuff too, but those are real dreams for another journal . . .).