Acting : On Acting by JR Beardsley by JR Beardsley

John Robert (J.R.) Beardsley On Acting (Published in Universal Film Festival Magazine ....page 64 http://issuu.com/ufmag.org/docs/ufm_issue_10/64) I have worked with over 400 directors as an actor, fight director and producer. Personally the best playwright in my mind is a dead one. As a fight director I adore Shakespeare for many reasons but mostly when it gets to action it just says "They Fight'. A fight directors dream. Not with what or how or with who... Leaves the creative door wide open. I have been extremely blessed to work with good, bad and great directors, martial artists, stunt coordinators and performers and actors. Anytime I hear of a director that is completely set in knowing exactly what he needs? I know I need not work with that person. To hear you say I have no artistic vision I get it from my director scares the life out of my soul. Artistic expression is the art of giving it up. A writer is inspired to create a story, a director is inspired by the story and creates his vision and presents it to the actor who should interpret all the artists vision and own the story and the character themselves. Then presenting it to the audience and giving it up to their interpretation. As an actor I also expect my fellow actor to challenge and create avenues to bring new meaning to everything being said and done. Therefore creating an atmosphere of challenge and growth. Otherwise it is just another worthless pathetic attempt to create art in your own mind... As an actor, director, fight director and person I would be insulted if I was not challenged by creative, innovative inspired beings on a moment to moment basis. So for what it is worth keep striving for individual excellence and keep your creative child and genius alive! In closing don't ever say you are not a writer...all artists are.... believe in yourself as I believe in you...J.R. Beardsley