Having a new script in your hands can be an exciting and overwhelming time. After all, so much effort and hard work have gone into you bringing your acting career to a point where you receive a role. There are a few things to do after you get a script that will ensure you’re putting your best effort into bringing the character to life and immersing yourself in the storyline.
Remember, no matter how small the role, you want to put as much as you can into it. When you give every part everything you’ve got, your career will humble you and take you further than you ever imagined it could.
Starting Off On The Right Foot
You’ve been waiting for a long time to hear that you’ve booked the part. Some actors wait decades to hold a script in their hands. You’ve made it this far, you haven’t given up acting, so it’s crucial that you start off on the right foot. When you set out with the intention of analyzing a script, take a moment to truly appreciate the fact that this is the task at hand. Bask in the moment, knowing that you finally hold in your hands what you’ve been working toward for so long. Then, move forward into the role, and take the necessary steps that will aid in preparing you. Consider the following advice.
Have a Hard Copy
Everything is done electronically these days, and this includes sending out scripts to the actors who’ve landed the role. Don’t fall for the convenience of an electronic copy. You will want to make sure that you print out the script in full, so you can walk around with it, make notes, highlight, and get a full grasp on the scene-setting and cues.
Read the Entire Script
Once you have your hard copy, it’s time to read the script. We don’t mean scan the script and only read your characters lines. We mean read the script in its entirety without judgment! Yes, this will take much longer but you’ve got to read, assess, and tackle your research and role from the best perspective possible. Don’t prematurely judge your character. Feel them out, get an idea of where they’ve been and where they want to go, and take it from there.
Research, Research, Research
You’ve read the script (hopefully more than once), and by this point, you should have a pretty good idea of how you want to develop your character and the ways you identify with them. Now, it’s time to dig in. Research is critical to every single role you receive, no matter how small the part or how short the script. When you do the necessary research, you’re not only preparing yourself for anything your castmates and directors throw your way, but you’re showing a level of professionalism that will get you additional roles in the future. Always be prepared.
Rehearse
Make a promise to yourself that you’ll rehearse on your own or with a friend as much as possible before going to set. Showing up prepared is refreshing to everyone on set, and puts you in the best position to showcase your talent and how you plan to portray your character.
Making it Work for You
Finally, A new script in your hands is so much more than a stack of papers. It’s the opportunity to achieve your goals and take a step into the future that you’ve worked for. Treat each script that comes your way with respect, and never forget the characters you’ve taken on. You’ll be grateful once you’ve made it!
