Approaching Acting: Insights from James MacArthur

The transcript discusses an actor's approach to choosing roles, breaking down scenes, and the differences between stage and screen acting. It highlights learning from plays like Platonov and Angels in America, managing monologues, and the skills needed for Peter Gynt. The actor emphasizes using personal experiences to enhance emotional connection on stage.

What is the speaker's approach to selecting roles?

• Choosing roles that are completely different from their personality

• Selecting roles that meet them halfway

• Picking roles based on popularity

• Choosing roles that require minimal preparation

How does the speaker describe the actor's role on stage compared to film?

• As a mere performer

• As a background character

• As the editor of the evening

• As a passive participant

What is crucial for maintaining the rhythm in plays like Platonov?

• Changing the script frequently

• Avoiding unnecessary pauses

• Ignoring the audience's reactions

• Adding pauses for dramatic effect

What technique did the speaker use to overcome fear during a monologue?

• Practicing in front of a mirror

• Changing the script

• Going back to basics

• Ignoring the audience

What does the speaker emphasize about knowing lines?

• Relying on improvisation

• Understanding the character's intentions

• Reading them from a script on stage

• Memorizing them without understanding

In Peter Gynt, what is essential for the actor's performance?

• Ignoring the audience

• Connecting with the audience

• Staying in character without any audience interaction

• Changing the character's traits every night

What does the speaker suggest about self-judgment in acting?

• It is irrelevant to performance

• It helps in changing the character

• It is necessary for improvement

• It should be avoided