For theatre actors, one of the greatest ways to bring believability to your character is to find a bit of “business” to do. This simply means performing some physical tasks while onstage, rather than standing (or sitting) there like a bump on a log, stiffly reciting lines.

So what can you do to add a more natural dimension to your character? If a scene takes place in a kitchen, you could clear the table or do the dishes. In an office, you could straighten papers on the desk. If you are having a discussion in the bedroom, you could finish getting dressed. These are just a few examples of things you can do.

For your next role, whether for acting class or a show you are in, consider where you can add some business. Be selective! If you add too much business, you can appear fidgety. Just choose a few moments where it would be appropriate.

Also, you should make sure any business you do is consistent with your character choice. If you are playing a homemaker, there are any number of “housekeeping” tasks you can do. A businessman may be meticulous about his clothing, adjusting his tie and cuffs.

But what if you are playing someone is more sloppy, or carefree, who never worries about tidying anything up? No problem! Think about how that affects your character’s life. Maybe you can never find your car keys, so you are constantly searching for them.

Here is a simple example of how believable a scene can become when you add the proper business: Imagine a scene where your character is alone in a room and the phone rings. A predictable, boring way to play the scene is to stand perfectly still while saying lines into the phone. The story will be moved along as it is supposed to be, but will the audience be engaged?

Picture the same scene this way. Find a reason to write something down during your phone call. Now you have something to do: search for a pen (maybe you have to go through a few until you find one that writes), grab a scrap of paper, and cradle the phone on your shoulder as you try to write while talking. Though very simple, these mundane activities will create both interest and believability while you deliver your lines.

Let your imagination run wild when discovering ways to add business to your performance. This is the fun part, where you get to inject some creativity into the role as it is written in the script.

Please feel free to comment on this post! What are some ideas you have about how to include business in a scene? Have you tried this before? If so, what did you do that worked? Share your thoughts with the readers of this blog…

Tags: Acting Tips //