Expertise of actors: Three viewpoints in acting

Abstract

Anecdotal evidence indicates that highly experienced good actors assume the viewpoint of the character, the actor, and the audience at the same time while acting. This study demonstrated this empirically and compared experienced actors with novice and intermediate actors. Twelve junior expert actors watched and evaluated 6 actors' performances (2 novice, 2 intermediate, and 2 junior expert actors). Results suggested that novice actors could not assume, intermediate actors inadequately assumed and junior expert actors adequately assumed the three viewpoints while acting. The evidence also suggested that viewpoint of the audience was the most difficult to acquire. The process of gaining expertise and educational implications are discussed.