Feeling the Emotions of Acted Characters: Commentary on Heisel

Abstract

This commentary addresses the hypothesis that empathy is a tool for embodiment and skillful performance in the presentation of opera and art song. It discusses the need to clearly and effectively define the term “empathy,” and considers research from acting and theatre that speaks directly to how embodiment occurs in vocal performance, when that performance is attached to a character specifically. It concludes with some additional acting exercises singers may find useful.