Ask Judith: Submission #11

Name: ROBERT
Email (optional): memorare.members@gmail.com
Question:
Dear Judith,

Thanks so much for your teaching! I've read your first "Directing Actors" many times over and learned so much! 
Could you please offer any advice on how to convince a professional actor to work opposite a non-actor? I've heard that professionals often resent being cast together with non-actors or even with talented but inexperienced newbies.

Reply:
Thank you, Robert. First I need to tell you that there are legitimate reasons why a professional actor might not want to work opposite an inexperienced one! The first and foremost being that the non-professional actor might not even show up to set! Acting involves a craft, and a work ethic. I invite you to reframe your question - instead of asking how can I convince a professional actor to do something they don't want to do, why not explain to them your reasons why you think this non-professional actor is the best casting for the role? and ask the professional actor how he/she feels about it? And whether the professional actor has any thoughts about how to make the scene work with the non-professional actor you have cast? Good actors are focused on *making the scene work*. Best wishes, Robert. Judith

Approved: Yes