Repetition Exercise (Meisner Technique)
Kate
MikeGoal
teach separation of observation & interpretation
Instructions
1. Pair Up
Find a partner to work with. Stand or sit facing each other, maintaining eye contact.
2. Observation
One actor begins by making a neutral, objective observation about the other actor. This observation should be simple and straightforward, such as "You are wearing a blue shirt" or "You have a smile on your face."
3. Repetition
The second actor repeats the observation exactly as stated. For example:
- Actor 1: "You are wearing a blue shirt."
- Actor 2: "I am wearing a blue shirt."
4. Continue Repetition
The first actor then repeats the observation back to the second actor, maintaining the exact words but now acknowledging the other actor’s repetition. This creates a back-and-forth exchange.
- Actor 1: "You are wearing a blue shirt."
- Actor 2: "I am wearing a blue shirt."
- Actor 1: "You are wearing a blue shirt."
5. Shifting Observations
As the exercise continues, the actors should allow their observations to evolve based on their partner’s behavior and emotions. For example:
- Actor 1: "You are smiling."
- Actor 2: "I am smiling."
- Actor 1: "You are smiling."
6. Emotional Response
Gradually, actors should start to include emotional reactions to what they observe. This helps deepen the connection and brings more authenticity to the interaction.
- Actor 1: "You look happy."
- Actor 2: "I look happy."
- Actor 1: "You look happy."
- Actor 2: "I look happy."
The key to the exercise is to stay present and genuinely respond to what is happening in the moment. Avoid planning or forcing observations; let them arise naturally from the interaction.
8. Maintain Simplicity
Keep observations simple and truthful. The goal is not to be clever or inventive but to be honest and present.
9. Observe Changes
Pay attention to subtle changes in your partner’s behavior or emotional state, and let those changes inform your observations and responses.
10. End the Exercise
The exercise can continue as long as necessary or until a natural stopping point is reached. There is no fixed duration; it’s about the quality of the interaction.
Tips for Success
Focus on Your Partner
The exercise is about genuinely connecting with your partner. Stay attentive and responsive to their actions and emotions.
Be Honest
Avoid making observations that are not true or that you do not genuinely perceive. Honesty is crucial for the exercise’s effectiveness.
Stay Relaxed
Maintain a relaxed and open demeanor. Tension or self-consciousness can interfere with the flow of the exercise.
Allow Vulnerability
Be open to expressing and receiving emotions. Vulnerability helps build a deeper connection and more authentic interaction.
Background
The Repetition Exercise is a fundamental part of the Meisner Technique, developed by acting teacher Sanford Meisner. This exercise involves actors observing and repeating each other's behavior and statements to promote spontaneous and authentic reactions. It is designed to help actors remain present and responsive, enhancing their ability to connect with their scene partners in a truthful and immediate way.
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