Me or character?

That question is a bit like how many fairies can dance on the head of a pin.

Actors want to debate the question ‘Should I go into the audition in character or just as me?’

It’s a non-discussion.

These propositions are irrational, so try not to get diverted by them. Just because ‘everyone’ is posing that question doesn’t make it a valid question. It’s something actors talk about in the bar. 

Every role you play is a character. Every character you play is you.

It’s no more complicated than that.

Sure, some TV shows are asking to see you, how you look, how you behave – fine. 

It’s still acting. You aren’t at home sitting on your couch, you’re on set in front of a camera. You’re a character in a story.

And some roles require limps, accents, wigs, coloured contact lenses, and lizard feet. We call these character parts. But it’s still you playing the role, limping and sporting the wig.

Learn the genres to be a better actor but, don’t get bogged down trying to answer diverting questions. 

How a question is posed is everything.