AUDIENCE 101:

The most important thing you can possibly do as an actor is to know your audience. Before a performance you should ALWAYS ask yourself “Who am I performing to?” Here are some of my simple rules to help you connect to your chosen audience through your acting! J

Sommer’s tips and tricks

Rule #1
Always, and I mean ALWAYS do your research. Once you are casted, make sure you know everything about the play/musical/production. This includes the time period, major conflicts in society, and your social status. This can ultimately inform you on how you will need to convey your character! (Please note that I take into account that many of you are not actors, but these rules can assist anyone who has difficulty knowing their target audience.)

Rule #2
Please…memorize your lines. Nothing is worse than paying 10+ bucks for a ticket to a show with actors that don’t even know their lines. It’s excruciating. Tip: Try to write your lines out as you are working on memorizing. You will find that your lines will come to you quicker than a new Katy Perry song.

Rule #3
Think about how your character lived and really try to ask yourself “what would my character have done?” in certain conflicts that are present in your production. It is extremely useful to know your social status. This could determine the way your character talks and dresses.

Taking it to the STAGE 101

Rule #4
When evaluating your character, try to use actions to convey your emotions in the scene or the show in general. For example, using higher pitched voice is often more welcoming to a younger audience rather than an audience of your parents age!

Rule #5
STAY IN CHARACTER. When you really take the time to focus on your character during a scene, your characteristics of your character come off really well. Goofing off during rehearsal in unprofessional and can steer you away from the importance of your character. Tip: Your director won’t be afraid to let the understudy take your role, honey. KEEP IT TOGETHER.

Rule #6
Have fun. You do this because you love to do it. This is my #1 fav rule because nothing is worse than an actor that hates to act. Does that make sense to you? Me either.