An Actor's Preparation: Embracing Character Stakes for Unforgettable Performances

“Raise the stakes”...what does that actually mean if given that redirect in an audition or on-set?

Let's unpack what casting directors and film/tv directors are getting at when they say that to help ensure that your next performance isn’t just good, but remarkably memorable.

I was working with an actor the other day in a private lesson. After she performed her scene, I asked her what was at stake for her character.  She responded that she didn’t know, that she hadn’t even thought about it.  

So firstly…let’s be honest, there are  A LOT of actors who don’t “make” the time to fully prepare for auditions.  I understand that we’re all busy.  People have work, family, school, obligations etc… Everyone is super busy. 

Regardless, successful actors have an audition discipline and realize that audition preparation isn’t just about memorizing lines.  Of course everyone knows this…but still, often many actors don’t “make” the time to truly prepare ahead of time.  Woof.  

So, if figuring out and deciding what is at stake for your character isn’t something that you normally do in your prep work, I’d venture to guess that you may not be doing enough scene breakdown in the first place. Or maybe you don’t have a specific process in place that can help you do that.  Fully fleshing out scenes ahead of time enhances your choices and overall performance.

Many actors think they are naturally talented and that they can just wing it or go off instinct alone.  But let me share some truths:

TRUTH NUMBER ONE- There is a big difference between talent and skill.  And that shows in your selftape auditions.  Yes, you may be talented.  But skill needs to be honed, consistently.

TRUTH NUMBER TWO- If you don’t make the time to fully flesh out your audition scene…do you know who will?  The next actor!

We all want opportunities so badly as actors.  Sometimes though, when we are fortunate enough to get an audition opportunity, we let life get in the way of fully preparing, and engaging and effectively setting ourselves up for success.  Anyone relate to this?  Everyone has fallen into that trap sometimes…

RAISE THE STAKES MEANING

Back to “stakes”... Have you ever heard a casting director, or perhaps a film/tv director on-set say to you “raise the stakes”? 

For myself as an actor, and with my students and private coaching clients, the question about character stakes is answered as a part of my Scene Breakdown technique.  

Ask yourself, “what are 2-3 things that could happen if my character doesn’t get what they want”?  Those things…are the stakes.  That’s what they’re fighting for, what’s fueling their decisions, their actions and reactions, their concerns about their hopes and dreams. And what will happen if what they’re specifically striving for in the scene doesn’t come true for them.

So, if you hear “raise the stakes” you should think back to what you came up with during your scene breakdown preparation and then realize possibly you aren’t leaning enough into that choice.

Three things to keep in mind for stronger stakes:  

• Relationship: maybe a deeper or longer one 
• Your character's conflicts and struggles
• Your character’s history

'Raising the stakes' is like adding fuel to your performance fire. It's about injecting intensity, passion, and urgency into your portrayal to captivate the audience (whether in the casting process or on screen) . By increasing the stakes, you infuse your character with depth and complexity, making them more compelling and memorable.

I think we are a fear-based society, so that’s why I typically focus on what will happen to them if my character doesn’t get what they want.  But…you can also ask yourself what they would get if they “do” get what they want - which is 100% valid and might add some juice for  you.  I just think in real life in moments of high emotional circumstances we tend to worry more than look for the silver lining.

CREATING EMOTIONAL DEPTH AND CONNECTION

Emotional depth and connection are the secret ingredients to 'raising the stakes' effectively. To truly connect with the material, you must delve deep into your character's psyche, unearthing their fears, desires, and vulnerabilities. By embracing these emotions authentically, you breathe life into your performance, making it resonate with the audience on a profound level.

ELEVATING YOUR PERFORMANCE

When you 'raise the stakes' in your audition, you're injecting passion, intensity, and energy into your portrayal. By dialing up the emotional depth of your performance, you captivate the audience and immerse them in the world you've created. Think of it as adding layers to your character - each nuance and subtlety making your performance memorable and impactful.

A strong Scene Breakdown Process is a MUST in

any successful actor's tool bag of skill sets.

These are the types of things I go over in my group Acting Fundamentals class at Actorsite and with my private acting coaching clients.  It’s something that you need, whether you study with me or someone else - YOU NEED A SOLID SCENE BREAKDOWN SKILL.  It’s crucial to have the knowledge of how to effectively break down a scene so you can show many layers and levels and colors in your auditions and on-set performances.

Sometimes the actors' choice of what’s at stake for their character in any given audition can be the difference between a decent audition and one that truly excels and shines above the rest.

Sure, sometimes an actor can just wing it, and come out with an amazing performance.  But, I’d venture to bet that  you will feel more confident and ready to slay if you do the necessary work ahead of time so that when that moment comes, you can just be…in character, in the circumstances, be in the moment… that glorious feeling of getting lost in it - and it’s much harder to get there if you haven’t fully fleshed it all out and done your homework.  

CONCLUSION

Raising the character stakes in your work can elevate your performance to new heights.  During your preparation ask yourself, "what does my character think will happen if they don't get what they want?".

As an actor, you are the master storyteller of your character's journey. Raising the character stakes helps you by increasing the emotional intensity and depth of your performance, you not only showcase your talent but can also leave a lasting impression..

Don't be afraid to push your boundaries and explore the extremes of your character's emotions of what’s fueling them. This is your chance to shine and stand out from the crowd. Embrace the challenge of raising the stakes in every audition and on-set performance as an opportunity for growth and creative expression. Your passion and dedication will set you apart and pave the way for success in the competitive world of acting.

If  you're interested in diving in deeper on this topic and would like to setup a private session or jump into a group class, reach out any time!  I love helping actors deepen their tools and skill set.