The Actor And The Target: Understanding Performance and Connection

Show notes

Chapter 1 What's The Actor And The Target

"The Actor and the Target" by Declan Donnellan is a seminal work that explores the intricacies of acting and the relationship between the actor, the audience, and the text. Donnellan emphasizes the importance of the actor's connection to their character's objective and the idea of the "target" as an essential part of performance. He provides practical insights and exercises aimed at helping actors identify and pursue their character's goals, while fostering a deeper understanding of the emotional truth and physical presence required in theater. The book champions a transformative approach to acting, urging performers to engage authentically with both their own vulnerabilities and the audience's perceptions.

Chapter 2 The Background of The Actor And The Target

"The Actor and The Target," published in 2002 by Declan Donnellan, emerges from a vibrant period in theater that emphasized actor training and performance methodology in response to the rapid changes in contemporary culture and audience expectations. Donnellan, a prominent British theater director, sought to bridge the gap between actor and audience, advocating for a more authentic and emotionally resonant performance style. His book reflects the increasing interest in exploring the psychological and emotional dimensions of acting, moving away from traditional techniques toward a deeper understanding of the actor's role within the narrative and the social dynamics at play during performances. Through practical exercises and theoretical insights, Donnellan aims to empower actors to connect genuinely with their "target"—the audience—fostering a shared experience that transcends mere entertainment.

Chapter 3 Quotes of The Actor And The Target

The Actor And The Target quotes as follows: Here are ten impactful quotes from "The Actor and the Target" by Declan Donnellan, a book that explores the art of acting and the relationship between the actor and their performance:

1. "The most important thing an actor can bring to a role is their own humanity."
2. "Acting is not about imitation but about finding the truth within yourself and expressing it."
3. "The target of the actor is not the audience but the truth of the character and the story."
4. "To act is to embrace vulnerability and to be open to the unpredictability of life."
5. "An honest performance connects the actor, the character, and the audience in a shared experience."
6. "An actor must be willing to take risks and step outside their comfort zone to capture authenticity."
7. "Every performance is a collaboration between the actor’s intentions and the audience's interpretations."
8. "Great acting is about listening—both to the character and to the responses of the audience."
9. "The essence of acting lies in the moments of silence, where the actor reveals their deepest emotions."
10. "A successful actor is one who continually seeks to understand themselves and the world around them." These quotes encapsulate the essence of Donnellan’s insights into acting, emphasizing authenticity, vulnerability, and the importance of connection in performance.

Book Summary Audio Bookey https://www.bookey.app/audiobook/the-actor-and-the-target YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWxdShPsMXU Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Actor-Target-New-Declan-Donnellan/dp/1559362855 Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/611466.TheActorandtheTarget