The Most Important Role for Actors…Themselves

Stella Adler said, “growth as an actor and as a human being are synonymous.”

I have always noticed the parallels between my work as a therapist and the work of an actor preparing for a role.  We both study human behavior, expression of emotions, and underlying character motivations.  We both strive to get the best performances, either out of ourselves or another.

While the destination of the work is different, the journey to get there is often the same.

Actors have a tremendous responsibility on the stage to portray authenticity in their work.  But is there enough support for the actor for the intense emotional material that can surface when preparing for a role?  How does an actor process the emotional challenges of playing Willy Loman or Blanche Dubois show after show, week after week?  Continued personal growth for the actor as a human being is vital.

My vision for The Inner Stage™ workshops is to give actors a safe and confidential space to work on their most challenging role…themselves.

Our next Inner Stage™ workshop, Breaking Through Emotional Blocks™ will be held on Monday, April 30th from 6pm-9pm at Ripley Grier Studios.  Please join us!

© 2012 Valerie Simon, LCSW, CP