Exercises to Create a Compelling Character
Creating a compelling character is one of the most important aspects of acting. Without a strong and believable character, it will be very difficult to engage an audience. So how do you create a truly compelling character? With exercises!
In this blog post, we’ll share some essential exercises that will help you create a fully dimensional and believable character. By the end of this post, you’ll have all the tools you need to craft an unforgettable performance. So let’s get started!
What’s your character’s name, age, and occupation for creating a compelling character?
Naming your character is no small feat, but it helps to create a strong foundation for creating a compelling character. Think of all the characters from literature and television you’ve encountered! Each one had a distinct name and identity. When choosing your character’s name, think of something that sounds plausible but isn’t too common so your story will stand out.
The age of your character matters too, as this impacts how they approach the challenges in the story. Pick an age that will fit with any paths you have in mind for them down the line and then decide their occupation. This isn’t just about setting up their place in society and day-to-day life, the job itself can provide insight into the personality of the character and lead to interesting developments within your plot. Now you have a starting point in crafting an intriguing protagonist or antagonist that stands out amongst your peers’ work!
What are your character’s physical features and what do they mean about his/her personality?
When creating a compelling character, it is important to consider physical features. For example, a tall and lanky individual may come across as awkward, while someone slightly shorter may seem more confident. These subtle details can be used to craft a character that stands out from the rest.
Furthermore, physical features often give insight into your character’s personality. They let the audience know how your character thinks and acts in certain situations. When crafting an interesting and complex character, using physical features to convey meaning can help portray unique traits and qualities that hold the attention of any viewer or reader.
What does your character like to do in his/her spare time?
When crafting a compelling character, a great place to start is thinking about what hobbies and activities they like to do in their spare time. Are they an avid reader, or perhaps someone who loves playing sports? Maybe they prefer watching TV shows or movies on the weekend rather than any other activity.
Whatever your character likes to do when they’re not at work or school will give your story added depth, and make them more relatable for readers. It’s important to remember that not all characters have lavish lifestyles or extra money for fancy vacations; some just spend their free time doing whatever hobby makes them happy!
Does your character have any quirks or ticks?
No character is complete without their little quirks, and it’s important to give your cast of characters something unique that you can use to make them stand out. If you want your character to be memorable and instantly recognizable, why not give them an interesting or quirky tick?
Maybe they compulsively twist their earring when nervous, or don’t know how to look away when making eye contact with someone. These small eccentricities help to give life to the character, so take some time to think about what kind of ticks your character has. After all, nobody is completely normal – everyone has some quirks that make them different from the rest!
How does your character interact with others?
Creating a compelling character often starts with determining how they interact with the people around them. Do they prefer to be alone, or stay in large groups? Are they shy and not prone to speaking up, or are they outgoing and always ready to voice their opinion? Is their attitude rude and scornful towards many, or are they friendly with those that cross their path?
Picking out how your character interacts with their peers can help you set the tone for the entire story, so think about it carefully as you create your next masterpiece.
What is your character’s motivation for doing what he/she does for creating a compelling character?
Your character’s motivation is what makes them compelling, and it’s important to know why they are driven to do the things they do. What drives your character can range from needing to be the best at everything, striving for redemption, or wanting to prove something to someone—the possibilities are endless!
Digging deep into the depths of their innermost desires can help you create a character that readers will truly connect with and root for. Understanding who your character is and why they do what they do is crucial in creating an engaging and vibrant story.
Summing Up
Creating a compelling character can be an interesting and constructive exercise for anyone trying to flesh out their story. When constructing a believable, dynamic character, it’s important to consider their name, age, occupation, physical features, personal hobbies, quirks, behavior towards others, and motivations for their actions. Once you figure out your character through these exercises you’ll be able to give them a unique voice that not only sticks in the minds of readers but also makes them engaging and real.
About ‘About the Work Actors Studio’
With some work to create a well-rounded character, you’ll have all the tools needed to make your story shine! At About The Work Actors Studio, we believe actors must feel safe to perform their best. We reward you for the risks you take and help you master your craft. We push you beyond your comfort zones to level yourself up. Our students choose us because we help bring out the best in them, time and time again. For more information, call 323-741-0155 or write to studio@about-the-work.com.
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