Expert: Kenneth D. Plonkey - 9/30/2009

Question
I'm directing a play at the moment which I'm really excited about, its by Edward Bond, but i just can't get my actors to feel the characters. i have tried a number of exercises with them but it just doesn't seem like they know how to approach it and i can't seem to connect with them. please help as i only have a 7 week rehearsal period!!

Answer
Hello Aimee, Hmm. I am not sure what you mean by "feel the characters."  It certainly isn't something an actor does literally.  Exercises are pretty worthless for actors.  What they need to do is to visualize themselves as these characters in this situation and respond accordingly.
To get them to do that may take you telling them what the proper response would be and coach them in how to say the lines and do the actions. Repeat and repeat until they can do it right every time. Insist on their having their lines learned the third rehearsal of any scene. They cannot act with the book in their hand and they need to be drilled on doing the lines effectively.  Be strict and even. Always keep your word.  Tell them you will have to extend the hours or days of rehearsal if they don't get it done properly. God bless, Doc