How to Create a Character, part 2
Continuing to use Carmen as an example, we now ask what does the music say about your character. Who is this character in their music? Now, look at the rhythm of each character and realize that every character has their unique rhythmic tattoo. Even with Carmen, at her very first entrance before she sings the…
How to Create a Character, Part 1
The other day I was teaching a class I loved at the University exploring the roles of the well-known opera Carmen. What do we as actors have to do with a character from the late 19th century? Actually, a lot. Other than the occasional alien I’ve met, most of us are human, dealing with the…
Sensuality On Stage
Classical Singer, Vol 13 No.1, January 2000 How do I project sensuality on stage … and feel good about it? In response to a recent letter, Adria Firestone, a mezzo specializing in the role of Carmen, detailed her in-depth approach to role study. Dear Miss Firestone: I have been having some difficulties with Carmen, for…
Singing & Acting: Lovers or Enemies?
. . . But then, if you really want to embody a character onstage, isn’t it part of your discipline and responsibility to look like that character as well? Aren’t singers Olympic athletes? Aren’t we a performance package?
How to Build a Character: for Voice Actors
. . . Actors, take note! Acting is acting whether you are miming silently, speaking into a microphone, or on the operatic stage.
Whenever people hear a beautiful speaking voice, they say, “Oh, you should get into voice overs — it’s easy!” Think again. Voice acting, because that is what it is, is far from easy. You don’t have scenery, fabulous lighting,