I recently saw a performance at a professional theatre and found myself watching more of what was not working with the performance than what was. I was deeply disappointed as the actors were not living in the moment. They were not listening to each other.
Theatre and performance is about bringing the written word to life. Theatre is also about expressing the in between...what is also not written in a way that takes your audience on a journey with you to experiencing an imaginary life as if it was real. With this, it is important for actors to be present on stage and in film in every moment.
As performers in a collaborative process working to produce a piece of theatre or film it is essential for actors to listen to their fellow actor and respond accordingly. When we listen to each other and respond in the moment we produce authentic experiences and experiences that connect with an audience in a more deep and profound way.
After that performance, I found myself continually thinking about the importance of this topic and the importance of actors never forgetting to be in the moment.
Life is continually evolving and getting faster and faster with our ever growing dependence on technology, and when you have a theatre filled with souls who come out and sit and watch a live performance, I implore you to give those souls the most present and authentic live experience they will ever see.
Today and everyday, I encourage you to practice listening and being present while working with your fellow actors.