The Meaning Behind “There Are No Small Acting Parts Only Small Actors”
Let’s consider the meaning of “There are no small acting parts, only small actors.” Constantin Stanislavski, considered the father of acting, is credited with saying this quote. Here is a my director’s advice to actors seeking acting parts. Having taught/directed productions for over 38 years, I’ve experienced every kind of actor’s personality that’s possible.
However, first I want to consider my directing philosophy. Although I am certainly not the father of modern acting, I do have an extensive teaching and directing career from which I can draw my opinions of the quote’s meaning. Here’s my take on it.
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There Are No Small Acting Parts Only Small Actors
The Tony Awards are the Oscar Awards for Broadway–except they are more genuine in my humble opinion. Theatre is different.
One reason–it is special because it is live.
I was thinking about the performers who portray smaller roles in the nominated productions. If you ever see them on television in a short quip on syndicated news or talk show, you’ll observe those supporting characters and chorus members are just as invested in the production as the leading actors.
That’s impressive. Generally, the nominated actors and actresses began as chorus members and understudies many years ago. They put in their time portraying small acting parts and earned their stripes to finally receive the spotlight. However, this is not always the case. If you’d like to learn about Broadway actors and actresses, check out: Bright Lights: Broadway’s Rising Stars
There Are No Small Acting Parts Only Small Actors
Just because you are cast in a small acting role does not mean you are not important to the show. If you think so, you have missed the point entirely.
You are still important to the show. Believe me.
If you find yourself unable to move beyond the belief that you should have been cast in a particular role, perhaps it’s time to redirect your focus elsewhere in your life. Coping with disappointment is an inevitable aspect of life, whether positive or negative. While nobody relishes the feeling of letdown, it’s essential to acknowledge its presence and explore alternative avenues for personal fulfillment.
Get over yourself, you know? Do you agree with me?
I was Blanche in “Brighton Beach Memoirs” 1989
Some advice from me–if you aren’t cast in the acting part you wanted, it is not an important enough reason to drop out of the show. Maybe you are to learn something or gain knowledge from the experience? Life is a journey, you know.
Director’s Procedure for Casting
For several days after I cast a production, I deal with hurt egos of cast members or those who audition for me and didn’t receive the role they desired.
I’ve previously mentioned this–casting a production has a lot to do with who a director envisions in a role. Sometimes I have no idea who I want to play an acting part. Other times, the right person walks in and is perfect. They are the essence of the character already. If you’d like more information about my experiences and advice, check out Eighteen Ways To Make Your Directing Experience Less Stressful, Part One Eighteen Ways to Make Your Directing Experience Less Stressful, Part Two
Some people can mold themselves into what I am looking for in a character. Those people are special because they are versatile.
Casting Questions I Consider
There are other factors in the decision to cast someone, however. For instance, do I know their work? Are they responsible? Also, have I known them to be difficult to direct and/or not a team member?
I was Dot in “Cricket on the Hearth” 2000
Let’s discuss acting parts. First, there are people who only portray straight roles. Straight roles are those parts most closely related to your personality.
Have you ever seen someone in a movie who plays the same sort of roles in each movie? The role the actor portrays is much like his/her personality off-screen. Aha. Personally, I think Meg Ryan is a good example of someone who can only portray a straight role.
Additionally, there are character roles. Character roles are those parts that are unlike you–because of your age, stature or personality. Paul Giamatti portrayed character roles with such genius. He’s up for an Oscar award for his work in The Holdovers. Also, Tracey Ullman is a super example. You may remember her from the voice of the mother on The Simpsons. Another phenomenal actor is Jared Leto. You won’t even recognize him in House of Gucci.
Versatile Performer: Embracing Both Character and Straight Roles
Character roles:
- Ugly Step Sister
- Wicked Witch
- Cowardly Lion
- Shrek
Straight roles:
- Cinderella
- Rapunzel
- Dorothy
- Fiona
Luckily, I can play both straight and character roles. That makes me more valuable to a director. To be honest, I enjoy performing character roles the most, because usually they are interesting and unique.
This is my opinion (but I bet a lot of directors would agreed with me)–It isn’t about playing the lead. It is about who you are best suited to portray.
This is such a great discussion question. If you want additional class conversation questions, check out: Conversation Starters
About Me
Guess what? I have not been cast in a production before. No joke! So, chin up! If you don’t receive the role you craved for, your time will come in the future.
If you are interested in my acting journey, check this out: https://wordpress.com/post/dramamommaspeaks.com/389
The next time the Tony Awards are televised, look for the chorus members or those supporting characters, folks portraying small acting parts. See if you notice them. You’ll only observe them filling out the stage–sort of like shadows in a painting.
There will be several actors who perform that evening that I know personally. As always, I am very excited for them. Shout a “Bravo!” to your television. I will, too.
Perhaps they will magically hear us…
I was Miss Prism in “The Importance of Being Earnest” 1976
From My Classroom to Yours: Drama Made Easy
Now, I’m a retired drama teacher who created drama education resources for teachers all over the world. If you are looking for cohesive, engaging, fun drama lessons and units, check out my store at: Dramamommaspeaks Store
Teaching High School Set Design?
Or are you looking for a bunch of FREE resources? Check out this category. Maybe you’d like to teach your students about a famous actor’s life? Check out: James Earl Jones or Julie Andrews
Have you ever not being cast in a production? I’d love to hear about your experience. Contact me at dhcbaldwin@gmail.com.
