English Prompt

Madison Jones
4/23/2009
7th Grade
Prompt 3; Rewrite
Topic: What Characteristics Make a Good Actor?
There are several good characteristics needed to be a good actor. Although it may look easy in movies and on Broadway, you have to consider all the hours of training these people put in months before it is time to put on the real show. Some characteristics needed to perform these shows well are good eye contact, a strong voice, good footwork, and dedication.
Your eyes are used more than anything when you’re acting. You have to look at the person you are speaking to and catch the audience’s attention. Your eyes also have to express the emotions your character is feeling. If you’re sad, you cry. If you’re happy, your eyes lighten with joy. Also, your eyes have to show that you mean what you say. Example: if you’re yelling at someone, you have to show the anger in your eyes.
In addition to have good eye contact; you must have a strong voice, one that can be heard loud and clear. Like your eyes, your voice must show emotion. You have to support the words with the tone of your voice. The voice of a character can say a lot about the character’s personality also.
Good footwork is far more important on Broadway than in movies because, on stage one wrong step and everyone is off step, but in movies if you stumble they can tape over it or get a stunt double. Imagine being out on Broadway with all those blinding lights and people are moving constantly and if you miss a step or bump into someone, it’s like the domino effect. By the time you can get back into step everyone is confused.
You must be dedicated to perform well. If you are not dedicated, the audience will notice you are not putting your best foot forward. Dedication means selfless devotion. These actors have to show up for practice day after day and work until their routine is as perfect as possible. True professionals prove their mettle in every performance because they realize that the last... [continues]

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