For my senior capstone project, I had chosen to create my own character development method. Drawing on several different theatrical methods as well as relying on a number of sources, I needed to develop my method and then perform a series of monologues, all ranging in different genres, to prove that it works. After much research, I found several theatrical methods that would be beneficial to my use, including Stanislavski, Strasberg, Adler, Hagen, Margolis and Miesner. Using my method, I developed the characters for my five different monologues and performed them for my project advisor.
Overall, it was quite the learning experience. Looking back on it, I know I could have done so much more. But I did the best that I could; I can't expect more than that. As time passes, and I grow as an actor, I will probably have to adjust my character development method. Even after performing my monologues this past Friday, I now see that there's much I need to adjust. And no doubt there are other theatre methods that could be useful to my method. Yes, my character development method works. But just because something works doesn't mean it cannot be improved.
I hope to soon test my character development method in the professional theatre in the near future. Since I plan on auditioning for Disney Cruise Line, it would be a great way to see how I can develop a role that I know so well. I can also learn more from the actors and actresses around me, and add their knowledge to my arsenal. There's still so much about the theatre that I don't know. But the journey isn't over; it's only just begun.
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The Senior Capstone Project Journal of Aaron J. Holt
Non-FictionUpon completing his senior year at the University of Minnesota, Aaron J. Holt put his theatrical skills to the test. Tasked with creating his own character development method, Aaron drew from various methods. Then, to prove that it worked, he had to...
