Playing a part: voice, face and body
An actor shows who a character is with three tools: how they say the words, what their face does, and how they hold and move their body. The same line can be made kind or cruel by voice alone.
What a learner can do afterwards
- Say one line two ways and name what changed, such as louder, slower, or a different feeling
- Show a feeling with face and body without speaking, and have someone else name it
- Explain that an actor is pretending to be someone else on purpose, not being themselves
- Watch a short scene and say what the actor's voice told you about the character
1 · Read
You have practised expressive speech. An actor uses it to play a character. Acting means pretending on purpose while staying yourself. Voice, face and body are three tools you can choose from. Use them to fit the part. Maximum volume is not the best choice for every character.
Say "Please stay" warmly, as if welcoming a friend. Say it again sharply, as if giving an order. The words stay the same. Changing your delivery can make the line sound kind or harsh.
A loud, fast voice may suggest excitement or anger. Use other clues too. Good news and a smile may suggest excitement. One clue does not prove a feeling.
In a play, a child loses a pet bird. The actor lowers their eyes and droops their shoulders to suggest sadness. Try a silent feeling. People show feelings differently.
Notice movements and voices in everyday life. Try details that suit your part. For a proud character, you might lift your chin and speak steadily.
Choose acting details that fit the character. Use the scene's clues and ask what your choices show.
The character-performance lesson, practice questions and cards were written for this dataset.
The character-practice reading was written for this dataset.
More to read
One line, two characters
Try the line "I found it." First, play someone delighted to find a missing key. Next, play someone worried because the key is broken. Keep the words the same. Choose a voice for each version. Ask a listener what feeling came across and which clues helped. Then try a face or movement that fits. You are choosing how to portray a character, not changing your own identity.
2 · Watch
Take it off screen
Where it sits
Learn first
Optional connections
This opens up
8 questions wait behind this lesson, each with its answer explained. Every answer feeds the sky: stars light as they are learned, and dim when it is time to come back.