thought-provoking things...

Well, provoking for my thoughts, anyway. First, I recommend a fast read: Boleslavski's "Acting: The First Six Lessons." We had to read it for Scene Study class. You ought to read it if you have an afternoon- it's about 100 pages and entirely composed of dialogue between "The Creature" (an actress) and "I" (her teacher) and there are lots of good quotes and concepts within it. The part that stood out to me in particular is when he is talking about the subconscious as this vast reservoir that we have access to - particularly useful in acting, when we have countless experiences and observations screaming for our attention, to be applied to the craft. My teacher said we must "consciously activate the subconscious." He says all kinds of one-liners that intrigue me. These are all out of context so they may not strike you as inspirational, but take them for what you will... He also said "Style? Style: a reflection of all that is authentic about an individual." (Is it? *scratches head*)

He said that becoming a character is like trying to put a glove on with one hand. "Think about that," he said. "How would you do it?" It would take tremendous effort and be exhausting (if not maddening), in my opinion... but it provides great imagery/inspiration if applied to the idea of developing a character in acting.

A student was talking about how all the exercises Boleslavski suggests are so rigorous and time-consuming, etc. She was complaining how building technique is so discouraging and confining. At this my teacher shouted, "TECHNIQUE IS LIBERATION!" He elaborated beautifully, but I'll let you decide what you think for yourself. I personally felt a huge grin spread across my face and laughed aloud. I loved it so much that I wrote it down. I'll never forget the way his arms splayed and his eyes popped as he exclaimed this. I loved it.

Carl Jung said "Life is a series of deals." I have been thinking/writing about that idea all day.

Two students did a scene in our class. Our teacher said, "I see you being earnest. I do not see you being true." There is a difference! That fierce clarity has stayed with me like a mantra. Do not be earnest. Be true. Earnestness is not enough. (I kept wanting to call it "earnesty" which I think sounds like a person eating taffy and trying to say "honesty")

Finally, one aspect of this class is to develop several LISTS. (Can you imagine my elation at this assignment? I will die with a to-do list in my hand. I love lists.) Let me tell you what the assigned lists include: an Abandonment list, Betrayal list, Fear list, Shame list, Violation/Abuse list, Anger/Rage list, Music/Song list, Joy list, Pleasure list, Happiness list, Things I Do When I Eat list, Things I Do In The Bathroom list, and Travel list. I have thrived in this regard of acting school so far.

Love to ALL!