TwoCents | So You Think You Can Act?

Throwback alert! Who else remembers the iconic dance show 'So You Think You Can Dance', that was created by the genius behind 'American Idol'? Anyhoo, as a nod to my favorite dance show growing up, I say make I craft witty title small. Hehe  Unlike the dance show however, this is more of a beginner’s guide which I’m going to break into three phases, starting with this right here. In essence; “So you think you can act” is simply a handbook, a free instruction manual based off my own personal experiences as well as what’s presently obtainable in the industry, guiding the newbie/JJC actor on the right path. If you’re literally starting out, you’re in luck because social media and the internet has simplified life for you. And this is one of such gems (if I do say so myself) you’ll come across, summing it all up.  Here goes nothing! PHASE ONE-  Starting Out. If you’re reading this, chances are you have decided to become an actor. Ngwa, congrats on taking this very big first step. One thing you’ll learn sooner than later, is that acting is not beans, neither is it garri or ewa or even dodo, which I happen to like very much.It is daunting, it is crazy, it is nerve wracking, and it is a jealous profession – because it doesn’t allow for you to do anything else full time. You can have side hustles, but acting will never give you the space to do anything else fully. Acting is like the jealous spouse who wants you all to themselves.And with good reason, because you cannot be at the bank telling your MD you want to go for an audition now, can you? You see am? So if you want to dive into it, be prepared to give it your all. However, it is also fun o! - make I add that one make you no dey discouraged. Particularly if it is your passion. It’ll be the most fun thing you'ld ever do and I’m speaking from personal experience. In summary; you can go on to have a super fun, super rewarding acting career, with the right approach, attitude, talent and even luck, and it all starts from taking the first step.Before we proceed, I want to throw in something. Acting comes with glitz and glamour for sure, which is why a lot of ppl join the industry. They want to be famous and while there’s nothing wrong with wanting popularity, this my article is not for people like that. I don’t consider myself fame seeking. It has never and will never be my driving force, because I don’t believe in doing anything without some level of passion. I get that sometimes we do things to survive, but acting is too tough to be something you should even do to survive. So this article is for those who know without a doubt, this is what they want not because of ‘red carpet.’ Dem drop you for the right bustop be that. Hope say conductor give you change sha? Alright, let’s get it.  Next question. Acting, actor, action. What is even this acting sef? Make I give una textbook or in this case CHATGPT definition - ACTING is the art of portraying a character or bringing a story to life through performance. It involves using one's voice, body, and emotions to convey the thoughts, feelings, and actions of a character.Acting can also take many forms, including:1. Theater acting: performing live on stage in front of an audience.2. Film and television acting: performing in front of a camera for movies, TV shows, or commercials.3. Voice acting: using one's voice to bring characters to life in animated films, video games, or audiobooks.Acting also involves a range of skills, including: 1. Character development: creating a believable and nuanced character. 2. Script interpretation: understanding and analyzing the script to inform one's performance.3. Emotional expression: conveying emotions through facial expressions, body language, and vocal tone.4. Improvisation: responding spontaneously to unexpected situations or dialogue.5. Physicality: using one's body to convey character traits, emotions, and actions.All the big big grammar is to say that acting is a highly creative and collaborative process that requires imagination, intelligence, spontaneity, empathy, and excellent communication skills. Now wey we don cover the basics of acting, let's move on to the next correct step. As an aspiring actor, there’s something very important you have to master which is called: the MONOLOGUE. Make I epp you ask. What is a Monologue?In the acting world, a monologue is a speech presented by a single character in a play, film, or theatrical performance. It is a solo performance. But most importantly, it is your chance to shine, to showcase and market your range and talent. Monologues are challenging because you have to act alone, most times without help, support or even hindrance. So if you're new to acting, start by practicing monologues. This is usually required at auditions, so the more monologues you master, the better your performance range. You can find plenty of examples online or on YouTube. Why Do A Monologue?Because monologues can be used to reveal a character's background, motivations, or conflicts, and can be a powerful tool for actors to showcase their skills.In the context of acting and as aforementioned, a monologue is usually a short, prepared speech that an actor performs to demonstrate their acting abilities. The purpose of a monologue is to showcase an actor's range and emotional depth, demonstrate their ability to interpret a character and convey a message, as well as highlight their vocal and physical acting skills.Which kain monologue person suppose do, abi? I sure say na next question wey you wan ask. Make I tell you!Monologues can be categorized into several types, including:- Dramatic Monologues: Serious, emotional, and intense, often used to convey a character's inner turmoil or conflict.- Comedic Monologues: Humorous, lighthearted, and entertaining, often used to showcase an actor's comedic timing and skills.- Narrative Monologues: Storytelling, descriptive, and informative, often used to convey a character's backstory or provide exposition.Why is a monologue important?At auditions, actors are often asked to perform a monologue as part of the casting process. This helps the casting director or director assess the actor's suitability for a particular role. Monologues in essence, provide you the actor, an opportunity to show the judges you can act, that you’re not there for fancy. Monologues demonstrate your range and emotional depth, and also even highlight your vocal, accent, and language skills. *Phew* That is a lot to remember, I’m sure. But I believe in you. Granted, when you’re starting out, this can seem complex. So I would advise you to start with the simplest monologue you can find. If you’re a writer, even better for you! Craft your own solo scene, give it your own pace, and all the ingredients to make it special and different. Make sure you also have fun with it, as you don’t always have to do something conventional. If you’re borrowing a monologue from an actual movie scene, there are creative ways to tweak it and make it your own. Just play around with what’s out there and add your own flavor. To prepare for a monologue, actors should:- Choose a Monologue: Select a monologue that showcases their acting abilities and is relevant to the role they're auditioning for. - Rehearse: Practice the monologue several times to become familiar with the words, emotions, and actions.- Analyze the Character: Research the character and their background to understand their motivations and conflicts.- Connect with the Emotions: Connect with the emotions and feelings expressed in the monologue to deliver a genuine and authentic performance; but don’t be overly dramatic. Having control of your voice, your expressions and your emotions in the scene helps, so you don’t go overboard and end up looking like a clown. Other steps to take while prepping for an audition or practicing a monologue - 1. Record yourself: This will help you see where you need to improve, and trust me, it's eye-opening. No pun intended. Hehe!2. Use a mirror: I’ve been told by some filmmakers you shouldn’t do this, but I disagree. I think acting in front of a mirror helps you develop your facial expressions and body language better. It's like rehearsing in front of your mirror, but this time, you're actually acting!3. Get feedback: Watch your recordings, analyze your performance, and make adjustments accordingly. You can also get friends and family to watch your videos and give you feedback. Family and friends not easily biased o! Now you have a couple of monologues prepared, wonderful! Another Jamb question would be to ask what’s next? No fear.  Next step is to find where to actually perform these monologues. You perform monologues either by recording for virtual platforms and auditions, to send to casting directors and agents or to perform them at physical auditions. How do you find out about auditions? By joining acting communities. If you want to catch a fish, you have to go to the river. You can’t catch a fish by staying in your living room now, can you? Except you’re AI. So! After perfecting that dramatic or emotional monologue, do the following -1. Follow acting pages: Stay up to date on the latest acting trends, events, auditions, even tips and techniques by following acting pages on social media. It is the industry you want to get involved in, so stay informed. Most of these audition pages upload acting resources and all kinds of filmmaking opportunities for up and coming actors and film people. Some popular pages in catering to Nollywood include ‘An Actors Playhouse,’ ‘Auditions NG,’ and ‘Auditions Alert.’  So get to searching!Don’t follow them and be disturbing them also. You have to have genuine cause and something tangible to show, before you start to tag industry leaders or any of these members of the film industry, unnecessarily.Step 2. Follow filmmakers and actors: Learn from the actual industry professionals and stay motivated by their work. You can learn a thing or two from the likes of RMD, Ramsey Nouah, or Gabriel Afolayan, amongst others. You can also learn from your peers who’ve embarked on their own acting journey before you. Follow them as well. Keep an acting circle. These folks will carry you along as you’re all in the same boat. Many actors, both veterans and up-and-comers often share clips from their acting jobs on their social media, which can inspire you and help you develop your own style. 3 - Record and post your monologues: When you’re not attending physical auditions, get busy online. Virtual auditions especially since the pandemic, have been on the rise. Set your camera and record a one minute monologue (which is the industry standard duration) then post on your social media and be sure to tag all the filmmakers and members of your filmmaking community, online) Not only will sharing your work get you noticed faster, it'll also be a major confidence booster. Granted, putting yourself out there can be scary, but it's a smart way to build your self-esteem and own your talents, while also showing the world the stuff you’re made of.4 - Get Your Headshots on Point, Asapu!: Invest in high-quality headshots, which are essential for auditions. Get at the very least, two 5x7 pictures: a headshot (from the top of your head to your shoulders) and a full-body picture. Also consider taking additional photos in different attire to showcase your versatility. Do the aforementioned as a beginner actor, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming an established one, before you know it!So, physical auditions, how do you navigate them? Let me share some tips from my own early days as an actor.  When attending physical auditions:- Show up early, my guy, to increase your chances of getting picked. Nobody likes tardiness. And African time needs to be stopped. Be on time, as casting directors are more energized and focused earlier in the day. If you stroll in too late in the day, whatever energy you meet you take o. Because early morning, fresh out, if a casting director meets you, he or she is more likely to be energized and receptive enough to give you all the attention you need. But if you come in let’s say… close to the end of the audition exercise, you’re not getting the very best as the casting director would have had a long day, and a massive depletion of their energy. Plus, you can even get turned away. - Avoid excessive makeup - If they did not ask you to come and audition for Willy Willy or Ayamatanga, plix and plix, take it easy on your powder. Casting directors always prefer to see your natural look. If you’re female, it’s not a circus show, it’s a film, play or tv show, so dress decently. Don’t do too much to your hair or face, unless the role you’re auditioning for requires you to be extra. I know actors can be crazy and artsy, but it doesn’t mean show up like an actual Weyrey, in essence.  There’s more where all the above came from, so stay tuned for Phase 2.  To God be the glory.  And to be continued like Nigerian feem.

Other insights from Belinda Chiazor