Theater actors embody roles that a playwright has written, not only performing the lines, but imbuing the characters with mannerisms and physical characteristics. But before setting foot on stage, actors must review scripts and then audition to get a part in a production. In addition to memorizing lines, they also research their characters. As stars of both stage and screen know all too well, they are never more exposed than when performing on stage. The power of theatre lies in its capacity to connect the audience directly with the onstage actors through a single shared experience. Success here can make or break an actor’s reputation.
Costume and make-up aside, theatre – unlike film – cannot rely on special effects or digital manipulation to transform an actor. In the theatre actors must rely on their own ability to transform themselves, so the audience sees the character rather than Maxine Peake or Simon Callow. They must follow a director’s directions and some actors may need to learn a new skill for a part like dancing, stage fighting, or horseback riding. Some actors do voiceover or narration work for animated features or audiobooks. An actor needs the skills of creativity, memorization, reading, and speaking. They should be persistent and have physical stamina. Actors are entertainers. They bring a writer’s words to life by portraying characters on stage, screen, and radio.
