Def: Skill set
​
How you do something or how you act
Although these first group of Principles are quite in-depth, we are only taking in to account 20% of a planned performance however these are the most important as it is the foundation of your future performances
(Like a skyscraper sits on incredibly strong foundations and without it, will fall over with a strong gust of wind)
By using this metaphor we can associate the strong wind as opposite actor or cast and even the Film Director
​​
Before practising your defined skill set there is a basic requirement​
Connected to your lines, this could quite easily be Principle number. 1 but now you have the knowledge of the first 2 Principles, you can begin to assess the words as you learn them alongside your character creation with Archetype and Energy placement
​
With regards to your script dialogue, we advise to keep saying and repeating them in different rhythms until you feel satisfied you know them. This would also be the same for the other dialogue for when your character is listening. Acting is also reacting
There are many basic ways to mark your script when defining pauses, being louder or quieter for example however this would be your own personality calculating how to deliver the words on the page
This can be done within the process of learning the script (Words DNA) but would make more sense to create this once your character has been established
This should be done after character creation which will establish inner dialogue (prethoughts and afterthoughts) including during listening which in itself is an additional script crafted by you as your character
Once this is established you can go to work. when this happens our terminology reference is "The lines / dialogue are now in your DNA"
If you struggle with "knowing your lines" one handy tip is to establish a picture or painting in your mind around the words that you read either as a tool to remember or actual character memory you would like to establish
​
Now the fun begins with presenting your performance to yourself
​
Firstly this is done in a mirror and then later via a self tape or video camera. Most people have a video camera on their phone, this is just as effective
​
The main reason to do this is you cannot see yourself in the room or situation and if you can't see yourself in the room, you can't see how you're performing which puts you at a major disadvantage
Paul J Lane explores "You Can't See Yourself In The Room" & Pace
Click on any of the icons below to explore examples of the Principles of the Screen Acting Skillset mastered at The Film Actors Academy
