Acting for the screen vs the stage

 

The differences between acting for the screen and acting for the stage can make it difficult to master each technique. But if you understand the differences, and take time to practice, then you can excel at both! Here are the three main differences between screen and stage acting.

Facial expressions and body language:

stage actors can’t express sadness with just a single tear, since only the audience members in the front row would see it.

When acting on screen, however, the camera can get extremely close to the actor, which closes the gap between the audience and the actors. Because of the close-up perspective, actors on film must use more subtle, controlled, and natural expressions and body language. Large, exaggerated “stage acting” can look awkward and silly on screen.

Preparation and performance:

With live theatre performances, actors have just one chance to get it right. Actors need to ensure their lines are memorized and delivered accurately. In musicals, actors must get their notes and lyrics correct on the first try. There are no do-overs during a live theatre performance.

For stage performances, actors have multiple "takes" to get a scene right. If they slur their diction, or mess up a line, they can do the scene again. In post-production, actors often go back to re-record lines to fix any errors.

Expect the unexpected:

Despite all of the preparation that goes into a stage production, actors need to be quick on their feet in case something goes wrong. A missed cue, a forgotten prop, a dropped line or even a wardrobe malfunction–no matter what, the show must go on!

In film, performances do not happen in real time or sequence. Due to budgetary concerns, time of day, or weather, an actor may have to perform an intense scene with lots of running and screaming. There is little time in between to mentally "re-set".

Both acting for the stage and the screen can be rewarding experiences, and with some practice, skilled actors can expertly switch between the techniques required from each environment.

Madhu Institute of Film and Television

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