Acting Tips - Infecting and Invigorating Your Acting Partner

When I was discussing this article with a friend of mine, she immediately thought I was talking about how not to get your scene partner sick when you have a cold. Laughingly, I told her that she was incorrect.

Infecting your acting partner does not mean to get them sick, but to rather infect them with your energy. Your energy rubs off on those who are around you, and if you are acting in a half-heartedly manner, then those around you will have a difficult time giving an energetic and realistic performance.

By infecting your acting partner with your energy, you will be acting like a giant refueling station. Your energy will invigorate your acting partners to carry the two of you throughout the scene. But exactly how do you infect and invigorate your acting partners while acting?

It is a common saying that your eyes are the window into your soul. And it is through this window that you can showcase your true energy and intensity levels. When acting alongside a fellow performer, utilize your eyes to showcase your energy and intensity. Really look at them and show you are committed 110 percent to your objectives as well as to your character.

Engage Your Partner

When speaking with your acting partner, do not simply recite lines you've memorized, but use your entire body engage the other person in conversation. When you think about it, every conversation you've ever had you are being engaged by the other party. This involvement may not be verbal, but through your body language. They are showcasing their willingness to hold a conversation.

This type of engagement will vary based on the emotional level of your scene. For example, if you were having a serious argument with a friend you would engage him by having heavy eye contact, your body would be square against his and your aura will scream, "LISTEN TO ME!"

No matter the scene, you can infect and invigorate your acting partner by being truly committed to the scene and the world around you. And when you invigorate him, he will also invigorate you. It is a beautiful circle of energy and synergy.