As a theatrical producer, you want your lead actor to shine on stage and deliver a memorable performance. But what if your lead actor is struggling with their lines, emotions, or confidence? How can you help them improve and overcome their challenges? Here are some tips on how to coach, motivate, and support your lead actor.
The first step to improving your lead actor's performance is to know them as a person and as an artist. What are their strengths and weaknesses? What are their goals and motivations? What are their fears and insecurities? How do they learn and respond to feedback? By understanding your actor, you can tailor your approach and communication to their needs and preferences.
Well to begin with we are assuming that the lead character actor is experienced. Following is my humble approach: 1) Trust the actor with his/her skill set 2) Do not give acting lessons on the set 3) Do not assume all good actors know the script and the context of the scene always. Always explain the importance of the scene. The impact of that scene to the story and the other characters 4) Give the actor the space to improvise and give insights on how the scene can playout. Finally make it collaborative if you want 'magic' to happen!
The second step to improving your lead actor's performance is to give them constructive feedback that is specific, actionable, and timely. Avoid vague or general comments that don't help them improve. Instead, focus on what they did well, what they can do better, and how they can do it. For example, instead of saying "You need to be more expressive", say "You can show more emotion by using your facial expressions, voice, and body language. Try to smile more when you say this line, or raise your eyebrows when you ask this question." Give feedback as soon as possible after a rehearsal or a performance, so that your actor can remember and apply it.
The third step to improving your lead actor's performance is to encourage them to be creative and explore different options. Don't limit them to one interpretation or one way of doing things. Instead, challenge them to try new things, experiment with different choices, and find their own voice. For example, you can ask them to improvise a scene, change a line, or switch roles with another actor. By doing this, you can help them discover new possibilities, develop their skills, and express their personality.
The fourth step to improving your lead actor's performance is to build their confidence and self-esteem . Confidence is essential for any actor, as it affects their presence, energy, and connection with the audience. To build confidence, you can praise your actor for their achievements, acknowledge their efforts, and celebrate their progress. You can also help them overcome their fears, doubts, and nerves by providing them with positive affirmations, coping strategies, and relaxation techniques. For example, you can help them visualize their success, breathe deeply, or listen to music before a show.
Not just actors but anyone on the set can feel the pressure or moments of insecurities. I would probably just give them space to think and not hurry into the shoot. The best way to handle this situation is not talk about work but other topics that interest them and slowly get them back into action. I am not the kind of producer and director to boost an actors confidence. This method often seems artificial and good actors don't appreciate it. Well it surely would be totally different if it's a child actor.
The fifth step to improving your lead actor's performance is to foster collaboration and teamwork among your cast and crew. Your lead actor is not alone on stage, they are part of a larger ensemble that needs to work together and support each other. To foster collaboration, you can create a friendly and respectful atmosphere, encourage communication and feedback, and involve everyone in the creative process. You can also organize bonding activities, such as games, icebreakers, or social events, to help your cast and crew get to know each other and have fun.
Theater is all about trust and cooperation. The success of a production depends on the whole team, and everybody, from the lead character to the assistants behind the stage has to take over leadership and responsibility. You have to take your lead character the burden of his role from her/his shoulders. She or he can rely on the whole team in the same way, as the team can rely on her/him. Show her/him, that everything is balanced out in your production and the he can can focus on his work. Give him the time he needs to develop his part and his ideas and show him, that he is not only your main character but a co-developer of the production as everybody is. S/he will find trust in this idea.
The sixth and final step to improving your lead actor's performance is to inspire passion and enthusiasm for the show. Passion is what drives any actor, as it reflects their love, dedication, and commitment to their craft. To inspire passion, you can remind your actor of the purpose and meaning of the show, the message and impact it can have, and the joy and satisfaction it can bring. You can also share your own passion and vision, and show your appreciation and gratitude for their work.
You cannot possibly inspire passion! In simple words and experience- Actors love discipline and a well organized crew. And mostly a well-behaved team. Remember they are already invested in the story and the director. The set should be a family who knows their job well. A right combination of the above will drive the actor to do her best.