Enter Stage Left

"Background actors have been given lines recently; I saw it happen more than once on the untitled Cameron Crowe movie set. Suddenly, a once-background actor is upgraded to principal, given a dressing room and a contract. This is great if you know what you’re doing. But if you’ve never acted before, the deceptively simple task of delivering a line of dialogue can become complicated when your face is in front of the camera, all eyes are on you, you can’t stand your own voice, you’re worrying that extra dessert will show through your shirt — anything can be a potential issue and paranoia can take over.

"Experience helps. The importance of training has been emphasized many times in this newsletter. Scott Rogers’ Studio, Wayne Ward and many other excellent teachers are out there and great sources for training on Oahu.

"But if budget is an issue and time is more accessible, consider the benefits of theater if you’re looking to learn the craft of acting. With some fine-tuned adjustments, stage and film acting is one and the same. Acting is about truth, telling a story in a truthful way whether you’re running from Godzilla or Hamlet. Though not every director or show is right for everyone, and theater requires several weeks of one’s time and commitment — for NO pay or a small honorarium — it can change your life. Hawaii has a booming theater community, from musicals to imrov groups to Shakespeare and everything in between. Volunteers are always welcome, not only as actors, but stage crew, assistant directors, stage managers, etc. A lot can be learned from the experience of putting on a production even if you don’t always land a role. Check out the all-volunteer website for info on auditions and much more.

"True story: I was never asked to read for the role I had on Baywatch Hawaii. I had several lines and a lot of screen time opposite two hunky lifeguards. I was called in based on my headshot and resume and met the director. My theater background was stressed by the casting director and the director hired me on the spot. The first time he heard me deliver my lines was on set. So don’t be afraid to hit the boards and break a leg!"

This item was originally featured in the December 2013 local newsletter.