Transitioning from Theatre to Film with Will Springhorn Jr.!
So, you’re thinking about jumping from stage to screen? At Aura Casting, we sat down with the one and only Bay Area native Will Springhorn Jr. – the guy who's been there, done that, and is ready to spill the beans on transitioning from the stage to the screen. You may have seen his prolific acting career in films such as Circle of Stone or onstage most recently in The Play That Goes Wrong at San Jose Stage! Grab your popcorn and let's dive in!🍿
Stage Roar or Screen Whisper: A Sound Check
In terms of vocal projection and physicality, how do you adjust your performance for the stage versus the camera?
Will: “On camera, vocal requirements are reality. If a person is 18 inches in front of you, project how you would in real life. You may think that makes it less demanding, however, days on set can be 14 hour days and you may be talking a lot more than usual. Theatre sets it up so vocal projection is a part of the job, however film does not have the time or equipment for that. For plays, 60% is in rehearsal, but you're lucky to even get rehearsal for films.”
So, whether you’re reciting a Shakespearean soliloquy or bringing a new script to life on film, hone that vocal technique!👌
Character Analysis: Finding the Sweet Spot
How does your approach to character development differ between stage and film?
Will: “Plays are literary robust but screenwriting is not allowed to have the depth and breadth of playwriting.”
Nevertheless, whether you are performing onstage or in front of a camera, you must discover truths about your character throughout the material!
Will: “Never contradict the text and find similarities between you and the character…Since the lens of film is so much closer, you need to feel fully comfortable in your characterization.”.
Audience Engagement: Lights, Camera, Action!
How does the presence of a camera change your awareness of the audience and your performance?
Will: “Some sets, the crew is very interested in the actors’ performances, but others are not as invested. Both are legitimate environments to act in while filming. The crew has very important time demands which sometimes does not allow investment in the story. The adversity of attention can be helpful for some actors and allow you to connect to your scene partner.”
“The adversity of attention can be helpful for some actors and allow you to connect to your scene partner.” ”
Lights, camera, action – and a crew full of folks doing their thing! Sometimes the crew is all in, cheering you on like your biggest fans. Other times, they're heads down in their own world. However, use that lack of scrutiny to find a connection with your scene partner!💓
Technical Considerations: Navigating the Cinematic Jungle
What technical aspects do you need to be mindful of when acting on stage compared to acting in front of a camera?
Will: “The economy of your performance. You need to do it a bunch of times, you need to have the stamina and concentration for 20 takes.”
An actor’s career truly is a marathon, not a sprint! Be mindful of your physical and emotional well-being while on set! 🧘
Character Connection: Bonds in Different Realms
Do you find it easier to establish a deep connection with your character in the continuous flow of a stage play or through the fragmented process of filming scenes out of order?
Will: “On set, things are happening incredibly fast and you have only a limited opportunity to form these emotional bonds. Acting in film feels like an affair with the character, whereas theatre feels like a marriage, given the length of the process…In theatre, you will find new things constantly through the repetition of a stage rehearsal process.”
Whether on stage or screen, the relationship between an actor and character is sacred. Savor it and try to make new discoveries!
Memorization and Retakes: Staying True to the Script
How do you approach memorization for a stage play versus a film script?
Will: “Exactly the same! You have to make sure you get it word for word. It is our job, as actors, to honor the playwright or screenwriter. If you say ‘my character wouldn't say that’, you're missing an opportunity to see the differences between you and your character. You need to trust your collaborators. Be diligent and faithful to the words.”
Honor your team of collaborators and have fun living truthfully through their words!📽️
Collaboration: Bridging the Gap Between Actors and Crew
In what ways do you collaborate with the technical crew in a film project compared to a stage production?
Will: “There is often a built in separation between crew and actors and I find that to be counterproductive to a truly great production. I personally make it a part of my process to know the names of everyone involved in the project…I find it to be really, really important. Film crews get there before you and leave after you…anything you can do to create an ensemble is only going to benefit everyone.”
Collaboration is key to any work environment and a film set is no different! Make those connections whenever possible! 🤙
Script Jigsaw: Crafting Emotional Consistency
In film, where scenes are often shot out of sequence, how do you maintain consistent emotional and character arcs?
Will: “Hopefully, the script does it for you. You know what you shoot on a given day and you can keep track of how that works within the arc of the film. Do your homework as an actor and know what you are trying to accomplish in every scene.”
Career Considerations: Balancing Stability and Exposure
How do considerations like job stability and exposure influence your choices between stage and film projects?
Will: “There is no job security or stability. The best actors in the Bay Area have day jobs and actors in major markets such as New York City and L.A. have careers where they only work once a year. Films are usually a better paycheck, but theater has longer work. An actor’s responsibility is to do both as often as possible.”
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And there you have it! Will Springhorn Jr.’s expert tips for any actor looking to step into that magical screen! Stay real, stay true, and break a leg! Oh, and if you want to see more of the amazing Will, check out his website here!
Still want to soak up more learning materials? Hop on over to our Resources Page!
Written by Whitney Hisako Moore
