What have I learned about acting after years of training, performing, and teaching?

In this episode, I share 10 things that have fundamentally shaped the way I approach acting. Drawing on my training in the Demidov technique with Andrei Malaev-Babel, classical acting with Jonny Epstein, and my own experience as an actor and teacher, I explore what it means to trust the moment rather than try to control it.

We talk about why preparation isn't performance, why accepting your nerves can actually help you, and what happens when you follow your first impulse instead of second-guessing yourself. I also explore the importance of letting go before you start, resisting the urge to recreate a good performance, finding freedom in comedy, and learning to trust your own unique talent.

Other lessons include developing a process you can trust, practicing daily, and remembering why you wanted to act in the first place.

This episode started as my first TikTok Live, and I decided to share the conversation here as well.

The 10 lessons:

• Preparation isn't performance.
• Don't deny what you're feeling.
• Pay attention to your first impulse.
• Letting go is just as important as preparation.
• Don't try to recreate a good take.
• Comedy needs freedom, not just technique.
• Trust your own unique talent.
• Develop your own process.
• Practice daily.
• Are you enjoying yourself?

The Actor's Nervous System explores the intersection of acting, embodiment, psychology, neuroscience, and the creative process.

Follow along on Instagram, TikTok, and Substack: @theactorsnervoussystem

Email: theactorsnervoussystempodcast@gmail.com

If you're an actor looking to develop your own process, I'm offering 1:1 acting coaching and self-tape feedback. Learn more at https://brianzane.com.

Support the podcast and writing at: buymeacoffee.com/brianzane

Podcast created, hosted, and edited by Brian Zane.
Music by Penguinmusic from Pixabay.

Learn more: https://brianzane.com