10 RULES OF ACTING
10 Rules of ActingRule #1: Go Big or Go Home
Description:
The stage eats energy. What feels “big” to you may look small to the audience. Commit fully to
your choices—physically, vocally, and emotionally. Don’t be afraid to exaggerate or heighten
your character’s gestures and expressions.
Example:
If your character is angry, let that anger show in your whole body: clenched fists, wide stance,
intense eyes—not just a frown and crossed arms.
Rule #2: React, React, React
Description:
Acting isn’t just about delivering your lines. It’s about how you listen and respond. Even when
you aren’t speaking, stay engaged. Your reactions make scenes feel alive and help tell the story.
Example:
If another actor reveals shocking news, your silent look of surprise or grief is often more
powerful than dialogue.
Rule #3: Don’t Upstage
Description:
Never draw attention away from the main action or the speaking actor by moving unnecessarily
or overacting in the background. Respect the focus of the scene.
Example:
If you’re in the background while another character is delivering an emotional monologue, stay
still and neutral—don’t adjust your costume or whisper to another actor.
Rule #4: Own Your Space
Description:
Move with confidence and purpose. Stand and gesture like you belong in your character’s
world. It shows authority and keeps the audience focused on you when it’s your turn.
Example:
If you’re playing a king, sit on the throne like it’s yours, not like you’re afraid to touch it. Claim
your environment.
Rule #5: Cheat Out
Description:
Always keep your body and face slightly turned toward the audience, even when talking to
another character. This ensures they can see your expressions and hear you clearly.
Example:
Instead of standing nose-to-nose with another actor, stand at a slight angle so your face is
visible to the audience while still connecting with your scene partner.
Rule #6: Tell The Truth
Description:
Even in the wildest comedy or fantasy, your character must be truthful. Believe in your
circumstances and intentions, and the audience will too. Honest emotion is what moves people.
Example:
If your character’s dog died, don’t just pretend to cry—recall a moment of real loss or imagine
deeply what that grief would feel like.
Rule #7: Project
Description:
Your voice must reach the last row without shouting. Support your breath, speak clearly, and
use resonance. Good projection means everyone hears you, no matter the size of the venue.
Example:
When saying “I love you” in a large auditorium, let the sound carry by using your diaphragm
and open mouth, rather than just pushing from your throat.
Rule #8: Stay in Character
Description:
From the moment you step on stage until you exit, you are your character. Don’t drop your
mannerisms, posture, or emotions just because you’re not speaking.
Example:
If you’re playing an elderly person, keep your slow shuffle and slight stoop throughout the entire
scene—even in the background.
Rule #9: The Show Must Go On
Description:
No matter what happens—missed lines, broken props, someone sneezes—stay in character
and keep moving forward. The audience often won’t notice mistakes unless you let them see
you panic.
Example:
If a chair breaks when you sit, improvise: stand and say, “This palace is falling apart!” Stay in
the world of the play.
Rule #10: Do The Work
Description:
Learn your lines, understand your character, know your blocking, and do your homework. Great
performances don’t happen by luck—they come from preparation and dedication.
Example:
Don’t just memorize words. Break down why your character says what they say. Rehearse in
front of a mirror, study the script, and come to rehearsal ready to play.