Shurtleff's 12 Acting Guideposts
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Joshua SewellShurtleff's 12 Acting Guideposts
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Joshua Sewell- IV. Humor
- III. The Moment Before
- V. Opposites
- I. Relationships
- II. What are You Fighting For? Goals and Conflict
- VI. Discoveries
- X. Place
- IX. Secrets
- VIII. Major Events
- VII. Tactics (Changed from Shurtleff)
- XI. Gameplay and Roleplay
- XII. Secrets and Mysteries
Common questions
Powered by AI'The Moment Before' provides context and backstory that informs a character's initial actions and emotions at the start of a scene. It suggests that characters do not appear out of nowhere but rather carry with them the emotions, actions, and motivations from their prior experiences. For example, if a character was just involved in an argument before entering a scene, the residual anger could influence their tone and demeanor as the scene begins. This creates a more authentic portrayal, suggesting continuity and depth in a character's journey .
'Discoveries' are crucial in a character's journey as they represent moments of realization or revelation that can transform a character's perspective or decisions. These discoveries contribute to the 'Illusion of the First Time,' making the performance feel spontaneous and genuine. They can serve as pivotal points that alter the course of a scene by changing the character’s behavior or decisions moving forward, thus driving the plot and character development .
'Secrets and Mysteries' shape interactions by introducing elements of tension and suspense between characters. Secrets, being what a character knows but hides, can cause them to act deceitfully or choose words carefully, impacting their relationships and interactions. Mysteries, on the other hand, involve unknown elements within the narrative that keep the character and audience guessing, driving intrigue and motivating characters to seek revelation or resolution as the scene progresses .
Understanding 'Opposites' within a scene can enhance an actor's performance by revealing complex character dimensions and heightening dramatic tension. For instance, portraying a character who embodies both strength and vulnerability can create a richer, more nuanced performance. Opposites can also highlight conflicts and inner turmoil, which can make a scene more engaging. By recognizing and incorporating these contradictory qualities, an actor can create a more dynamic and compelling character portrayal .
According to Shurtleff, 'Relationships' are the fundamental building blocks in any scene and significantly affect an actor's portrayal by dictating how characters interact with one another. For instance, knowing if your character is in a Father and Son relationship versus a Boss and Employee relationship will change the nuances and delivery of your lines, gestures, and reactions. The nature of your relationship with others in the scene influences your behavior and emotional responses, thereby shaping your character’s portrayal .
'Tactics' refer to the methods or strategies an actor employs to achieve their character's goals. They influence performance by providing a range of possible actions to overcome obstacles and pursue objectives. Actors might use persuasion, manipulation, or intimidation as different tactics within a scene. The use of varied tactics can result in a dynamic and adaptable performance, enhancing a character's complexity and realism .
'Events' are significant as they serve as pivotal moments that dictate the flow and emotional intensity of a scene. They act as landmarks around which the scene's actions revolve, creating peaks of tension, resolution, or transformation. These events can influence the audience's understanding and the characters' reactions, intensifying emotions and advancing the plot. For example, a confession or revelation can dramatically alter the direction and stakes of the narrative, affecting all involved characters .
Even in dramatic scenes, the guidepost 'Humor' is important as it provides relief, creates contrast, and adds complexity to the narrative. It can alter audience perception by humanizing characters, making them more relatable, and providing a deeper connection to the material. Often, humor can highlight the absurdity or irony in serious situations, thereby enriching the audience's emotional experience and engagement with the scene .
The guidepost 'Importance' contributes by ensuring that actors emphasize the most vital and interesting aspects of a scene. It underscores moments that may be life-changing or crucial for character development, prompting actors to focus on and elevate these instances to highlight their significance. By recognizing and portraying these key moments with the appropriate weight and attention, actors can enhance the dramatic impact and audience engagement with the scene .
Understanding 'Place' influences an actor's performance by grounding their actions and emotional responses in physical context. Knowing the scene's specific location, time, and atmosphere affects how a character feels and behaves; for example, a character's demeanor in a comfortable home setting would differ from one in a public confrontation. The 'Place' provides cues for body language, voice modulation, and interaction with other characters, all of which are critical for authentic performance .
