Unleashing the Power of Your Subconscious
Have you ever watched a breathtaking performance on stage or screen and wondered, “How do they do it? How do they completely immerse themselves in a character and make it seem so effortless?” As a budding actor, I too was captivated by this mysterious process of “channeling” a character. It seemed like some kind of magical talent that only a select few possessed.
But after years of studying under the guidance of Cindy Tanas at her renowned acting studio in Toronto, I’ve learned that the secret to channeling a character lies in tapping into the rich tapestry of our own subconscious. It’s about embracing the multitude of “sub-personalities” that exist within each of us and allowing them to flow freely through our performance.
Dissolving the Protectors
When I first started my acting journey, I was plagued by all sorts of mental blocks and “protectors” – that self-conscious part, the inner critic, the perfectionist, the anxious worrier. These parts of me were constantly trying to keep me “safe” by holding me back and preventing me from fully immersing myself in a role.
As Cindy explains, “These blocks are simply protectors or defensive mechanisms that have been trying to keep the actor safe most of their life. The reason acting technique alone does not always free an actor instrumentally is because protectors are not usually addressed in technique classes.”
But through the power of techniques like Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Voice Dialogue, I learned to embrace and integrate these “protectors” rather than trying to suppress them. I realized that these parts of myself weren’t the enemy – they were simply trying to look out for me in their own misguided way. By accepting them with compassion, I was able to slowly dissolve the barriers that had been holding me back.
Awakening the Authentic Self
With those pesky protectors out of the way, I was finally able to access the true wellspring of my creativity – my authentic Self. As Cindy describes it, “Self is experienced by the actor as a grounded, centered, aware state of being that is dis-identified from the ego or personality. This state of being is in touch with your essential nature and flow state.”
It’s from this centered, grounded place that I’m able to truly channel a character. Rather than trying to “act” or “pretend,” I simply allow the different sub-personalities within me to emerge and guide my performance. I might tap into the playful, whimsical side of myself for a comedic role, or draw upon my deeper well of emotions and vulnerability for a dramatic part.
As one of Cindy’s students put it, “I simply channeled a character. This time I allowed the character to inhabit me.” It’s a profound and liberating experience, like unlocking a hidden door to a whole new world of creative potential.
Mastering the Art of Auditions
Of course, the real test comes when you step into the audition room. This is where all the work you’ve done to channel your inner character comes into play. And let me tell you, it’s a game-changer.
Gone are the days of stiffly reciting lines and desperately trying to “look the part.” Instead, I approach auditions with a sense of ease and fluidity, allowing the character to emerge organically. I might start by tapping into a particular mood or emotion, then let my body and voice follow suit. Or I might experiment with different vocal qualities and physicalities, seeing which one feels most authentic.
The key is to stay grounded in that centered, aware state of being – the capital-A “Actor” rather than the ego-driven “actor.” This allows me to be fully present and responsive in the moment, rather than getting caught up in self-consciousness or performance anxiety.
And you know what? It works. I’ve booked roles that I never would have imagined possible, simply by trusting the process and allowing my true self to shine through. It’s like unlocking a secret superpower that was inside me all along.
Discovering Your Own Unique Approach
Of course, the journey of channeling a character is an intensely personal one, and what works for me may not work for you. That’s why I encourage you to experiment and find the approach that resonates most with your own unique creative process.
Maybe you’ll connect with the IFS and Voice Dialogue techniques that Cindy teaches. Or perhaps you’ll stumble upon a different method that speaks to you on a deeper level. The important thing is to be willing to explore, to dive into the rich tapestry of your own subconscious, and to trust the wisdom that lies within.
After all, the heart of great acting isn’t about mimicry or imitation – it’s about tapping into the universal human experience and expressing it in a way that’s truly authentic and transformative. And that, my friends, is the true magic of channeling a character.
So, my fellow actors, I invite you to embark on this incredible journey of self-discovery. Who knows what hidden talents and unexpected depths you might uncover? The possibilities are endless, and the rewards are oh-so-sweet.
And if you ever find yourself in the Toronto area, be sure to check out the Musical Theater Center – where you can hone your craft and unleash the power of your inner character. I’ll see you there, channeling my way to the top!
