March 28, 2008, Newsletter Issue #109: Emotional Scenes

Tip of the Week


For many actors, learning to "cry on cue" is one of the hardest skills to learn. There are many exercises one can do to reach the emotional level where tears can come freely. The best method may be not to try. In other words, the more we attempt to use a technique, the less it can work for us. This is because we remove ourself from the scene at hand. Imagine: Your best friend tells you she never really liked you. Now, would you stop and say to yourself, "Okay. I have to cry. How can I make that happen?" Of course not; the emotion of the "scene" would naturally take over. You have to trust that same organic wave of emotion when you are playing a scene as well. Who knows? Maybe you won't cry at all, but have another reaction entirely. And in scenarios where your character must cry, sometimes the best method is to, well, act. Next time you cry in real life, note how you do it. What does it feel like? Sound like? Learn to recreate this so that you can cry in a realistic manner...even if no tears come.

About LifeTips

Now one of the top on-line publishers in the world, LifeTips offers tips to millions of monthly visitors. Our mission mission is to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Expert writers earn dough for what they know. And exclusive sponsors in each niche topic help us make-it-all happen.

Exclusive Sponsor

SFT's four-week intensive acting program "Summer in the City" will have two terms this summer. Act your heart out and earn college credit at the same time! What's in it for you? Four incredible weeks in the heart of New York City, working with a faculty of working actors, directors and producers. Contact us toll-free at SFT today, 888-645-0030.

Not finding the advice and tips you need on this Acting Tip Site? Request a Tip Now!


Guru Spotlight
Byron White