“Can you name a few actors?” – Try asking this question to someone you know or try asking yourself this question. The answers will have names of actors ranging from Kollywood to Hollywood depending on the choice of the person answering this question.

This prompts us to the next question – Why did you not add to this list of actors, your name or names of your neighbours, friends, relatives, colleagues and others you know? The answer that pops up the next instant would be – We are not actors?

Interesting,…… then who are actors?

“Actors are those who have the skill to act”…..hmmmm………Well then “What is acting?”……..hmmm

… “Acting is the skill to communicate with the use of body language, voice and expressions”

 In such case, do we not make use of body language, voice & expressions to communicate? Shakespeare had quoted much early on “All the worlds a stage and all men and women merely players…” This quote has been widely used by many speakers, but have we really understood the essence of this quote?

 To put across the definition of acting in simple terms would be – The harmonious blending of physical (body language & expressions), psychological (thought / feel), & sound (voice) energies to a given situation. This is what each and every one of us are doing day in and day out. We adjust and adapt to the various circumstances and the different people whom we come across in our life. Our reaction would completely depend on WHO we are reacting to & Where we are. When we add the WHAT, WHY, WHEN & HOW factors the reaction becomes even more precise. If you are able see through these factors and are also able to apply them with ease, then you are good communicator.

This also means that you are in great control of your emotions, in a deeper sense; you are in harmony with yourself.

 Those who are not able execute this effectively have a serious communication problem, be it verbal or textual. It is a well-known fact that communication is one of the most important facets of life skill in the 21st century.

Taking a leaf out of the actors guide - Knowing how to control & activate your emotions at the right time will be a great step ahead to improve your communication skill.

Vijay Viswanathan

Mentor & Acting Coach