The Meaning Behind “There Are No Small Acting Parts Only Small Actors”
Here is a director’s advice to actors. 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. 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. 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 about the quote.
Here’s my take on it.
The Tony Awards are the Oscar Awards for Broadway–except they are more classy 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.
The Meaning Behind “There Are No Small Acting Parts Only Small Actors”
Just because you are cast in a small acting part 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.
However, if you can’t get past the fact that you are convinced you should portray the role you didn’t receive, it might be best for you to focus on something else in your life. No one enjoys the feeling of disappointment, but it’s a part of life. Good or bad.
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 role you wanted, it is not a important enough reason not to involved yourself in a production. Maybe you are to learn or gain something else 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 auditio for me and didn’t receive the role they desired.
I know 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 a 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. Do I know their work? Are they responsible? Have I known them to be difficult to direct and/or not a team member?
I was Dot in “Cricket on the Hearth” 2000
There are people who can 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. Tracey Ullman is a super example, too. Another actor who is a phenomenal character actor is Jared Leto.
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.
About Me
Guess what? I have not been cast in a production before. No joke! (I’m scoffing here a bit and hope you understand.) 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
Now, I’m a retired drama teacher. If you are looking for cohesive, engaging, fun drama lessons and units, check out my store at: Dramamommaspeaks Store
Need something for your bulletin boards?
Growth Mindset, the Arts and Character Education Posters
Looking for a bunch of FREE resources? Check out this https://dramamommaspeaks.com/2020/02/17/free-teaching-resources-blog-hop/
Have you ever not being cast in a production? I’d love to hear about your experience. Contact me at dhcbaldwin@gmail.com.
