The Frustrated Director and His Actors
Introduction
Directing a play is no easy task, especially when you have a group of actors who are difficult to work with. As a director, you have a vision in your mind of how the play should be performed, but getting the actors to see things your way can be a challenge. In this article, we will take a humorous look at some of the frustrations that directors face when dealing with actors.
The Diva Actor
We all know that one actor who thinks they are the star of the show. The diva actor can be a major headache for directors, as they demand special treatment and attention. They may show up late to rehearsals or complain about their costumes, all while expecting everyone to cater to their every need. It can be tempting to give in to their demands just to keep the peace, but that will only make things worse in the long run. It is important to remind the diva actor that they are just one part of a larger production, and that the success of the play depends on everyone working together.
The Over-Ambitious Actor
The over-ambitious actor is the one who wants to steal the show by hogging all the attention. They may improvise lines or add extra movements to their scenes, all in an effort to stand out from the rest of the cast. While it is important for actors to bring their own unique perspectives to their roles, it is also important to remember that they are part of a team. The over-ambitious actor should be reminded that their performance is only one part of the overall production.
The Lazy Actor
On the other end of the spectrum is the lazy actor, who shows up to rehearsals unprepared and uninspired. They may forget lines or refuse to take direction from the director, all while wasting everyone's time. It is important to remind the lazy actor that acting is a profession that requires dedication and hard work. If they cannot meet the demands of the production, they may need to be let go in order to ensure the success of the play.
The Method Actor
The method actor is the one who takes their role a little too seriously. They may insist on staying in character both on and off stage, making it difficult for their fellow actors and crew members to communicate with them. While it is admirable to take the craft of acting seriously, it is important to remember that the production is a collaborative effort. The method actor should be encouraged to find a balance between their dedication to their craft and their role as part of the larger production.
The Unreliable Actor
The unreliable actor is the one who constantly flakes on rehearsals or shows up late without warning. They may have a variety of excuses for their behavior, but the bottom line is that they are not committed to the production. It is important to remind the unreliable actor that their behavior affects the entire production, and that they need to be reliable in order for the show to be a success.
The Conclusion
Directing a play can be a challenging experience, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. Dealing with difficult actors may seem frustrating at first, but it is important to remember that each person brings their own unique talents and perspectives to the production. As a director, it is your job to bring everyone together to create something greater than the sum of its parts. So the next time you find yourself frustrated with your actors, take a deep breath and remember that you are all in this together.