Listening to the direction of James Skinner
Candid moments behind the scenes with Colin and James. The Art of Listening
For those who has known me, listening is one of my least attributes in relationships. Being aware of this, I made a point to master my weakness. Having studied in New York for acting, I was able to understand the depth importance of communication. Analyzing each word and internalizing what it means and the sender's Point of View. Instead, I inhibited the habit of selective hearing and choosing my own translation and executing an impulsive reaction. Stubbornness plays a big role so does pride which is the root of arguments in our personal lives and displays lack of professionalism in the work place.
Being an actress, I have to utilize my inner instruments may it be the accessibility of joy or pain for the nature of storytelling. Acting is all about listening and reacting. It takes many years of training for an actor to break their personal walls and the fear of judgment from others. Especially for some who studied later than childhood actors. Adult actors possess real life experiences covering their vulnerability to exude bravery and strength. Therefore, our walls are up almost all of the time. This way we tend to be overly conscious and over analytical of what others may perceive of us, but plays very little validation of who we really are. These noises in the back of our heads will alert the nervous system and build up anxiety. Imagine being on stage full of people and you are the solo performer. A lot of people are naturally frightened by this. Learning to condition your mind and body is what we call in the acting world finding your “center”. This is done by relaxation, taking deep breaths, vocal exercises, and conditioning the body. Freeing yourself from useless energy outside and channeling your mind to accept the purest state of openness for imagination. Thereafter, ART is created. You can listen carefully, eye lining another person, and deliver a response or a reaction from a clear state. In short, to listen well, we must shut the noises in our heads, be present, and be open.
Listening to what a film director requires in a character is a skill set that you must possess as an actor. Everything costs money, especially time. You want to do each scene in less takes as possible, but that's nearly impossible if you don't play close attention to what the director wants. Scripts are translated in different ways based on individuality and their own personal experience or presentation choices. What may be a dramatic scene can turn out to be humorous for the other. The director will direct what is required from you. Your key element is to LISTEN, deliver a story and bring these beautiful characters from paper into life.
Lunch break at Twitter Headquarters, Market St., SF "That's a wrap for the filming of, "Friend Request". I'm really proud of this production and have met some brilliant people in the industry that opened doors for me."
-Myra
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