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Life as the Actor’s Masterclass

by Mario A. Campanaro

Life as the Actor’s Masterclass

by Mario A. Campanaro

Let’s discuss how life itself will always be the real Masterclass for the actor. Our craft has always been, and will always be, shaped by life itself. After all, what else could it be formulated by? Some may say we are storytellers, but I say we are storylivers. Our purpose is to reveal the deepest truth within the story, in service to the writer, the audience, and the vast world of the human condition.

So, why wouldn’t we turn to life itself to understand the work from its original source? In the here and now moment of life, all the answers to our questions about human behavior and functioning are available to us. If the desire to understand is present—combined with a compassionate heart and intuition to see what might be hidden behind things—then the actor is always learning and growing. There must always be questions appearing in the actor's mind and heart, guiding their journey through life. This ongoing exploration helps build a richer human vocabulary within the actor’s instrument.

By doing so, we come to realize that every human life has a story. This story shapes who we are and how we function physically, mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually. It sheds light on our own center and how we navigate this complex ride called life. If we understand this about ourselves, why wouldn’t we apply this same knowledge to understanding and revealing character?

When we truly grasp this, we can leave personal judgment behind and reveal a character’s story with the respect it deserves. This understanding can even extend to respecting and understanding those around us in our own lives. We can read books about acting or life, but the real craft of acting is found in the living—by observing and implementing what life itself teaches us about the human condition. And trust me, life has an abundant, delicious rainbow of lessons to offer the artist. I call it Mary Poppins’ purse—it has everything you need inside!

It is crucial for the actor to keep searching for the craft, as life will always mirror, justify, and validate that search. Observe people’s intentions. Pay attention to how people listen and behave, especially in relation to the circumstances they’re in. Notice how people try to navigate obstacles, better their lives, or respond to stimuli. Watch how they love or hate, and really question—really question—the story behind all of it. This is pure gold for the actor!

And here’s the best part: life’s information is free. It’s there for the taking, and it’s crucial to use it. By doing this part of the work—just as important as mastering objectives or memorizing lines—the actor sets a high artistic standard for themselves. This focus helps the actor reveal only what is truthful, based on the circumstances of the story the writer has given. This approach eliminates "indication" and debunks "shmacting"—you can't fake it. The audience is much too smart for that. They know when something is real, and when it isn’t.

Life serves as the actor’s guide in the lifelong pursuit of their craft. It creates a high standard for being the best artist they can be. So keep going, and never settle for mediocrity or generalizations in your artistry.