How to Act

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Watch more How to Be an Actor videos: howcast.com/videos/313452-How-to-Act

Putting on a costume and memorizing lines is not all that an actor does. Learn how to be memorable by following these steps.

Step 1: Study different kinds of people
Study different kinds of people. Learn their mannerisms, their speech patterns, and their postures.

Step 2: Act out different characters
Stand in front of a mirror and act out different characters, paying close attention to facial expressions, gestures, and speaking styles. Incorporate as many emotions into each character as possible.

Tip
People express similar emotions in different ways. Knowing how to express the same emotion differently is a great asset at auditions.

Step 3: Learn to interact
Learn to interact and communicate with different types of people.

Step 4: Follow directions
Follow directions as given. Improvisation is great if the director has called for it; otherwise it is an unwelcome addition to a director’s goal.

Step 5: Memorize and practice your lines
Memorize all of your lines as written. Practice them in front of a mirror and rehearse with a friend or family member.

Tip
The most memorable characters are ones that the audience can relate to and empathize with, so be real.

Step 6: Be confident and composed
Be confident and composed. Casting directors and agents remember actors who have a polished look and self-esteem.

Step 7: Learn to speak without overacting
Learn how to speak your lines without overacting. Deliver your lines like you would normally speak in that situation, pauses, stuttering, and all.

Step 8: Keep your eyes away from the audience or camera
Keep your eyes away from the audience or the camera unless the script directs you to do otherwise.

Did You Know?
The first woman to own a major television production studio was Lucille Ball, who bought it from her ex-husband in 1962.