Notes to the actor: I am in this scene to find out what happens in this scene

I am in this scene to find out what happens in this scene.

Like many thoughts on acting the idea is simple but it can be way harder to achieve. Honestly, all we need to do is just attend to the thing we need to attend to in each and every moment. But, my god, it can be so difficult to do this in reality. All the noise, the extraneous shit that can overwhelm just being there is hard to let go of, hard to ignore. So this little phrase is a useful one to remind us of what’s important and where to focus our attention. This simple idea encapsulates a key principle of authentic, present-moment acting and emphasises several important aspects of acting:

1. Curiosity and openness: The actor approaches each scene with genuine curiosity, not assuming they know exactly how things will unfold. This keeps the performance fresh and alive.

2. Present-moment awareness: Instead of planning or anticipating, the actor stays fully engaged in the current moment, responding truthfully to whatever occurs.

3. Listening and reacting: This mindset encourages the actor to truly listen to their scene partners and react authentically, rather than simply waiting to deliver pre-planned lines or emotions.

4. Embracing spontaneity: By being open to discovery, the actor allows for spontaneous moments and happy accidents that can bring depth and realism to a scene.

5. Avoiding preconceptions: This approach helps actors avoid getting locked into a single interpretation, allowing the scene to evolve organically.

6. Mirroring real life: In reality, we don't know exactly how conversations or situations will unfold. This mindset helps recreate that authentic sense of discovery.

7. Reducing performance anxiety: Focusing on discovery rather than "getting it right" can help alleviate pressure and allow for more natural performances.

8. Encouraging play and exploration: This attitude fosters a sense of play and experimentation, which can lead to more dynamic and interesting choices.

9. Serving the story: By being open to what unfolds, the actor remains responsive to the needs of the story rather than imposing their own agenda.

10. Emotional authenticity: Approaching each take or performance with fresh eyes allows for genuine emotional responses rather than manufactured ones.

The principle aligns closely with my philosophy of "being, not seeming" and emphasises the importance of authenticity, presence, and openness in acting. It encourages actors to trust in the moment and their own instincts rather than relying on pre-planned choices or intellectual analysis. Stay present. Stay curious. Stay open. Stay gold.