What does Richard Boleslavsky mean by Concentration?

Answer 1

Richard Boleslavsky, a renowned theater director and acting teacher, discussed the concept of concentration in his book "Acting: The First Six Lessons." He refers to concentration as the ability of an actor to focus their attention completely on the task at hand, blocking out any distractions or extraneous thoughts.

According to Boleslavsky, concentration is vital for an actor as it allows them to fully inhabit the character they are portraying and to be present in the moment. It helps them to connect with the emotions, thoughts, and objectives of the character, and to respond truthfully to their circumstances on stage.

Boleslavsky suggests that concentration is not just a mental state but a physical one as well. It involves using all of one’s senses and being fully aware of one's surroundings, including the other actors and the audience. By being completely present and focused, the actor can bring authenticity and depth to their performance.

Furthermore, Boleslavsky emphasizes the importance of developing a disciplined mind and body to achieve concentration. He encourages actors to practice exercises like meditation, observation, and physical warm-ups to enhance their ability to concentrate and remain fully present in their performance.

In summary, Richard Boleslavsky defines concentration as the ability of an actor to fully focus their attention, both mentally and physically, on the task at hand. It is a key element in portraying a character authentically and creating a compelling performance.