UC Santa Cruz

From nonlinear stories to ambulatory productions to realism, the styles of theatrical productions in 2017 are incredibly varied in nature. This presents a unique challenge for the actor to have the psychological dexterity to translate an array of different techniques into the application of character construction.

However, in actor training there is not a methodology that articulates how the actor learns to make this critical choice. The essential process of how to approach character construction is paramount to the performer and I propose that it should be considered as much as the technique and eventual performance itself.

In this thesis, I adduce that adapting the qualitative methodology of heuristics to this microcosm of the actor’s process would bridge this gap. Through the lens of heuristics I will dissect two different productions using them to fuel my research in the hope of becoming a more effective and affective actor.