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Why do actors keep making the same choices each time they perform, even though they are playing a different character? Why do actors put limitations on their work that diminish their marketability? How can actors remain personally safe in emotionally charged scene work? How can actors identify the roadblocks that are holding them back from freedom in their work?
This book examines these and many other questions related to the self-imposed barriers actors place on their work. Roadblocks often limit and constrain actors from accessing the emotional availability so readily required for this unique craft. This book offers a systematic approach to achieving peak performance in order to defeat the self-doubt that hinders so many actors. Equally, the book offers guidance for educators and directors to compassionately assist actors toward that freedom. The book co-mingles psychology and acting theory in a unique way that targets the challenges that actors face daily.
List of contents
Introduction: Roadblocks and Bridges
A Note to Actors
A Note to Acting Teachers
1. A Roadblock
2. Understanding Yourself as Actor
3. Understanding Your Other Selves
4. Identifying Roadblocks
5. Roadblock Examples
6. Addressing Roadblocks
7. Roadblocks Expanded
8. Bridges
9. Mindfulness.
About the author
Rob Roznowski is an award-winning actor, author, director, educator and playwright. He is an Associate Professor at Michigan State University, USA, where he serves as the Head of Acting and Directing in the Department of Theatre.
Summary
This original, incisive book examines questions relating to the self-imposed barriers – or roadblocks – that actors place on their work. Rob Roznowski demonstrates how roadblocks often limit and constrain actors from accessing the emotional availability required in their unique craft. He then offers a systematic approach for achieving peak performance in order to defeat the self-doubt that can hinder actors. He also offers guidance for educators and directors to compassionately assist actors toward gaining freedom. Incorporating perspectives from psychological consultants, the book book co-mingles psychology and acting theory in a unique way, presenting practical strategies for dealing with a range of roadblock issues that actors face daily, including anxiety, intimacy, self-esteem and trust.
This is an ideal resource for practitioners, instructors, and students of acting, theatre and performance at any level.
