Stage vs. Screen Acting

Insights from T. Schreiber Studio’s Experts on Acting for Theatre and Film

Stage vs. Screen Acting image lots led lightning systems few with color filters stairs movie set - Designed by Freepik

We’re ringing in the new year with a new monthly edition of Schreiber Scribes! For last month’s edition click here

This month, we’re inspired by cameos from stage veterans Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth in the new blockbuster Wicked. So, we want to explore the differences between stage vs. screen acting, which makes us wonder . . . What does it take to transition from the floodlights to soft focus? 

 

Answers from our Teachers

In response to these questions, we’ve spoken to our own Pamela Scott, Peter Jensen, and K. Lorrel Manning.

Pamela coaches actors privately for auditions as well as on-site film projects. She has been teaching at T. Schreiber for over 20 years. She works to help actors at all stages develop their craft—from those just taking their first steps, such as in our Beginning Technique class (check out our first blog for more on that!) to professional actors, such as Emmy Award winner Julia Garner. With all her expertise, we think there’s no one better to ask about the similarities and differences between acting for stage and screen.

 

Truthful Behavior: The Key to Authentic Performances

As you think about reaching an audience of hundreds or just the camera six inches from your face, our artistic director Peter Jensen, has another take . . . and a warning:

“There are many more similarities than differences: truthful behavior is truthful behavior. You don’t need to make the behavior ‘bigger’ for the stage and ‘smaller’ for the screen. It needs to be authentic in either case.”

K. Lorrel Manning, who teaches Intermediate/Advanced On-Camera classes at The Studio, echoes Peter and Pamela’s views: “an actor’s emotional honesty, commitment to the role, and understanding of the character’s objectives remain constant across both mediums. The preparation process—such as breaking down the script, understanding character motivations, and exploring relationships—remains the same as well.”

When exploring Stage vs. Screen Acting, it is a common misconception that film acting is “smaller.” But, as Peter says, truthful, authentic behavior translates in any setting. Take a look at Laura Dern in this scene in Big Little Lies. Or, check out Daniel Day Lewis in “The Milk Shake” Scene in There will be Blood.

There is nothing small about their acting here—and yet, it reads beautifully. 

While Dern and Lewis’s performances break the small vs. big behavior misunderstanding, it’s not to say that film acting doesn’t allow for a certain type of subtlety. Just look at one of Pamela Scott’s favorite film performances, from Whale Rider. In this scene, Keisha Castle-Hughes tries not to cry while performing for her grandmother. It’s subtle—you could even say small—and absolutely engaging.

We are often told the transition between film and theater can be extremely difficult, but here at T. Schreiber Studio, we believe that with a robust, well-developed toolbox, actors can draw on their craft to deliver exceptional, authentic performances on any stage.

We’d love to hear your views on the differences between stage and screen acting! Share your thoughts in the comments below.

 

Til Next Time,

The Schreiber Scribe

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