The difference between stage and screen performance
Most of the actors across the world started as stage actors and grew to film actors. Using this as an example, it is clear that skills acquired by actors on the stage can be translated to the film. However, there are notable differences between stage and screen actors. The action between stage and screen is more like a painter who moves acrylics and watercolors. The fact is the painter remains the same, but the medium has changed.
The significant difference experienced between the stage and film set is the environment. Indeed, the production of stage movies involves adequate rehearsals, bonding, and experience with the director before the night of the performance. The stage actors are well prepared and become familiar with their roles before they perform to the public. In other words, they have dozens of practice before the night of the performance. In contrast, film actors are set in chaotic places with highly specialized and artists that present then with numerous challenges. They receive little training and rehearsal before the performance, and that depends on the role one is playing. In precise, film actors are hired on the assumption that they will come set and ready to perform (Olivier and Meryl N.p). Preparation before the performance is vital for stage and film, but the procedure and processes of preparation are vastly different.
Another significant difference between acting on stage and film is the location of the audience. In the stage, the actors tend to be far from the audience, and therefore, they regularly exaggerate their gestures and facial expression. They do this to make sure even the patrons in the back capture the moment. On the other hand, acting from the screen or film, the camera comes closer to the actor, which helps in reducing the gap between the audience and the actors. Due to the close-up perspective, the actors can use natural gestures and expressions without exaggeration. Exaggerated gestures can look awkward and ridiculous on the screen.
In theatre or stage performance, actors need to be audible enough to make sure the audience grasps every word and moment. Therefore, that is why the actors are supposed to have a strong voice and memorize all the lines. Depending on the budget, the production of the action may or may not involve a microphone, and that’s why the actors need to master their lines and pronounce them with a high tone to make sure everybody heeds the message (Olivier and Meryl N.p). Contrary, the screen or film actors have numerous chances to get the scene right. If they slur or stumble over a line, they can redo the scene again. The film production process has microphones everywhere; therefore, actors do not need to shout or speak in high tones.
I have a great passion for acting, and I would choose to act on film production over theatres. This is because the production of films is quite advanced, and once actors make mistakes, they are given another chance to correct themselves. Although acting on the theatre stage is not bad, it is somehow embarrassing to stumble over a line in front of the audience. On the same part, I will flawlessly practice on my to make sure I do not turn off the viewers or rather the audience. Before every performance, it is vital to practice thoroughly to iron out all mistakes.
Works Cited
Olivier, Laurence, and Meryl Streep. “Stage Vs. Screen: What’S The Big Difference?”. Student Resources, 2015, https://www.nyfa.edu/student-resources/stage-vs-screen-whats-the-big-difference/.