Acting : Working on the Craft of Acting is Like Going to the Gym to Stay in Shape by Shane Stanley

Shane Stanley

Working on the Craft of Acting is Like Going to the Gym to Stay in Shape

During this time of Covid, a lot of people have used it as a reason (aka an excuse) not to focus on their craft. Yes, acting classes, workshops, and a lot of productions have been put on indefinite hold but there is no reason you cannot stay in "shape". If filmmakers, writers, and actors can creatively use ZOOM for table reads and to audition, there is no reason you cannot work with your instructors, fellow actors, and filmmaker-friends to keep tone and your skills intact. Remember, acting is like a muscle, one that needs to be exercised - and regularly. It's heartbreaking to see how many talented folks have checked out and aren't taking advantage of this 'downtime' when they can be keeping their minds, bodies, and skills in tip-top shape. I encourage you all to use this 'hiatus' to work the kinks out and hone your craft. This lockdown will be behind us one day and the flood gates will open - and if you're serious about your future in front of the camera, please don't let a day pass where your head hits the pillow and you haven't done anything to get closer to making your dreams become a reality. I can assure you, there are plenty of people who have found ways to take advantage of our circumstances and are going to come back better and stronger than ever. And I hope that's you!

Jason Mirch

Fantastic advice from Shane Stanley! Shane shot two films during the time of COVID and is in post on the latest now.

Trey Lewis

Thanks for the advice! This is a real wake-up call for me.

Sasha Tomas

Shane Stanley I have to say, as tragic as the pandemic has been, it has been a boon for me. I would never have had the opportunity to get top-notch acting classes like the famous school Second City, which is now online. In the past, I would have had to travel and live in NYC or Chicago to take improv/ comedy classes. Now, I can learn from the comfort of my home and meet amazing people. I feel so blessed and definitely will not squander this opportunity. I start Improv classes in March/April. I'm also taking acting classes starting in March. Atlanta is only a few-hour drive for me and I was prepared to commute once a week for classes. Now, I can do it online. YAY! I'm preparing myself for when the world opens back up.

Karen "Kay" Ross

Ooo, Shane Stanley in the Acting Lounge?! LOVE IT! And thank you so much for your words of encouragement! I'm taking it to heart - I've been looking for reasons to get back into acting classes, and flexing those muscles seems like the best reason! Also, social atrophy really does affect an actor's ability to think/speak on their feet. Time to practice!

Sasha Tomas Wow, go you! That's awesome that you took that initiative!

Also, Trey Lewis - I love Memphis! Just thought you should know LOL

Rosie Ferdin Cruz

Yep, thank you Shane Stanley . There's so much out there... I know so many coaches that had contributed to communities all over... Soooo I totally agree... Talent & hard work go together ;-)

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