Creating a Character

To bring a character to life, an actor must become that character. This requires far more than mere impersonation or a simple understanding of motivation. A vital part of the acting process is knowing how to use the body to bring out a character's unique traits and behaviour patterns. In "Creating a Character", actor and mime artist Moni Yakim reveals his time-tested techniques and step-by-step exercises for physically evoking a character. Beginning with a chapter on looking inward, Yakim gives exercises on discovering aspects of one's own character. Then he teaches the actor how to identify with qualities outside the self. Finally, he shows how to apply these techniques to 12 classical theatrical roles.