Are we recreating human behavior or co-creating with it?
“Listen, acting is not surgery, it’s entertainment. You’re doing something to hopefully move people, to make them laugh, to transport them. But actors are vulnerable, and the reason we’re vulnerable is that we’re always trying to recreate human behavior.” – Eddie Redmayne
Recreating Human Behavior VS. Co-Creating Human Behavior As An Actor
As actors, our job is to recreate human behavior. We study human nature, emotions, and relationships in order to bring truth to our performances. We analyze scripts, break down characters, and make choices about how to bring them to life. But there’s a difference between recreating human behavior and co-creating in real time.
When we co-create, we are not simply reproducing what we’ve learned or imagined. We are actively responding to the other actors, the environment, and the moment. We are present and fully engaged in the scene, responding authentically to what’s happening. Co-creation requires a certain level of spontaneity, vulnerability, and openness. It requires us to let go of our preconceived notions and be fully present in the moment.
While recreating human behavior can be complex and challenging work, co-creating in real time takes it to a whole new level. It’s a thrilling experience to be fully present and engaged with our scene partners, responding to their every move and instinct. When we co-create, we are not simply acting, we are fully living in the moment.
So how do we co-create?
It starts with listening. We must be fully present and listening to our scene partners, responding authentically to what they’re saying and doing.
We must be willing to take risks, to trust our instincts, and to be vulnerable.
Be open to the moment and willing to let go of your preconceived notions.
At Shari Shaw Studios, we believe in the power of co-creation. We encourage our students to fully engage with their scene partners, to be present in the moment, and to trust their instincts. We provide a safe, supportive environment where actors can take risks, make mistakes, and grow. Because when we co-create, we create magic on stage and on screen.