Technical Difficulties

I suspect this email exchange I had with an actor might resonate with some of you:

Dear Les,

I’m having a hard time remembering the rules of breaking down the scripts – builds, repeats, reversals, undercuts, the when’s and where’s to do or not to do things, etc.  I know they are covered in the Intensives and such, and repeated all the time in class, but I guess I have a hard time retaining the info.  What I really need is an actual written key or map legend that I can print out, laminate, post on my wall, put in my car, store with my headshots, etc.  So when I get new sides for class/audition/role I can pull out the key and better prepare my scenes. Some days I do well in class and some days I suck.  I know I’m supposed to Dare To Suck, but I feel like crap when I’m not as prepared as I could be.

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Dear Hard Time,

I’m so sorry you’re having such a hard time. For whatever it’s worth, your teachers say you are improving steadily.

We specifically do not provide the written materials you describe because we want everyone to create their OWN way of working.  That’s why every class takes Minutes and distributes them.  That way, each of you can create what YOU need – what works for YOU.  Because everyone is different. My suggestion would be to go back through your notes and create your OWN list.

However, dude!  You’ve only been with us for few months! You’re probably still in phase two or so of the Dreyfus Model of Skill Acquisition.  If you review that document, you’ll see that during this phase, you’re not yet at a place where any of what we’re teaching you is second nature.  Of course you WANT that to be there, but that takes a LOT of practice and time.  AND REHEARSAL.  How much are you rehearsing????

Unfortunately, if you wait for “class/audition/a role,” to pull out that document and practice what you’re learning, to work on your stuff, you will be in trouble.  The more you can work on it daily, the faster it will be effortless for you.

Finally, I suspect there’s way more to your lack of ability to remember the technicals than memory issues.  It sounds to me like things are bothering you that are taking up so much space in your brain that you can’t hold on to a reversal or a build or listening.  And that makes sense.  It’s not a lack on your part, it just means you need help.  So.  Are you in therapy?  If not, I think that would help a LOT.

I look forward to your thoughts.

Love,

Les