Tips for Dramatic Actors - Reading the Subtext Within a Script

Ah, subtext. This is one of my favorite subject matters when it comes to dramatic acting. Like all forms of acting, delivering dramatic dialogue in a believable and natural manner involves far more than simply reading the lines with a level of emotion you would "expect" from a the scene. To provide a truly believable performance, you must gather and utilize the subtext of your character's dialogue. Uncovering the subtext of a dramatic script requires time and patience; however, when you learn how to effectively integrate subtext into your performance, your character will obtain realistic depth intrigue.

What is Subtext

Subtext is defined as the conversation that occurs beneath the actual conversation. You actually use subtext in your everyday conversations. For example, when you're having an argument with your friend, you may be saying, "I don't really like how you said that." However, in your mind you're thinking, "How could you say that? I thought we were friends. You really hurt me." This subtext is what drives your conversations - even while reading this article, you are having subtext running through your mind. When it comes to dramatic acting, understanding and integrating subtext into your performance will aid you in delivering dialogue that is genuine and sincere.

Highlighting the Emotional Peaks of a Scene

There are many processes involved in uncovering accurate subtext within your script. One of the most effective ways to uncover the true subtext of your character is to highlight the emotional peaks of a scene. Taking a highlighter, review the scene you're analyzing. Highlight phrases or action points that signify an emotional peak within your character. These may be obvious phrases, or slight changes in the attitude or direction of your character.

Analyzing Scene Dialogue

Once you have highlighted the emotional peaks of your scene, you must then analyze the scene dialogue. Who is your character talking with? What information is he trying to convey? Is he having a confrontation with someone, if yes, then who? What is his relationship with the person? Why is he saying the words he is saying?

Integrating Subtext with Actual Text

After you have read a dramatic scene several times and have fully analyzed the dialogue and highlighted the emotional peaks of a script, then you must begin the process of integrating subtext within the actual text. While there are several different ways you can accomplish this, one of the most effective means of doing so is by taking a pen or pencil and writing the subtext beside the actual dialogue. Beside each line, write what is going through your character's head. This gives a clear indication of your character's objectives, obstacles and internal hurt or trauma.