Josh McHugh is an actor living and working in Los Angeles.
He writes a blog about “The trials, musings and shenanigans of a working actor…” – Josh McHugh, He Acts
His writing is thoughtful, insightful and we are delighted to be sharing it here on Actor Hub.
He writes a blog about “The trials, musings and shenanigans of a working actor…” – Josh McHugh, He Acts
His writing is thoughtful, insightful and we are delighted to be sharing it here on Actor Hub.
Yes, And . . .
The most important building block of improvisation is also perhaps the most powerful tool in my life and career.
I received my introduction to improvisation at IO West in Hollywood approximately a year ago. I was not a natural. It was easily the most challenging class I have ever taken as a performer. However, I would do it again in a heart beat.
It was there I learned my most important lesson as a professional trying to make it out here; “Yes, and…”
What is “Yes, And . . .” all about?
“Yes, and…” is the concept of building a scene organically through positive interaction. Simply put, say yes to everything your scene partner gives to you. In addition to saying yes, you offer them something in return. This keeps the scene going.
Negativity is the death of this art.
The scene can go nowhere if you deny what is given to you.
This simple concept has transformed my life in so many ways. It has given me incredible confidence as an actor. If you can survive a minute on stage with nothing but the clothes on your back and open ears, an audition room poses no real challenge, where everyone wants you to succeed.
“Yes, and…” has motivated my career.
An example of “Yes, And . . .” at work
A friend of mine reached out to me about a year ago. She was producing a web series and needed some more hands on set.
I thought about it, figured “what the hell”, and showed up.
Within a week I was running sound and setting up lights. A few weeks after that, I had a recurring role in a few episodes.
Before I knew it I was an associate producer.
Now I work on two different web series and I have a show family of beautiful, creative people that I hope to keep around me as long as they’ll have me.
“Yes” is a very powerful word. You never know where it will take you.
Other Guest Posts from Actor Hub
-
Guest Post from Actor and Director Ben Hodge – I wanted to pull together a few audition DON’Ts that I’ve seen over the years and share them with you. Here is Part Two -
Actors can be frightened by Shakespeare. We can approach it with caution and our caution leads us to deliver it in an unnatural way. A way which we think adds to its gravitas. Here are some tips on making it sound modern. -
From Guest Author – Marci Liroff – I strongly suggest you learn a scene or a monologue once a week to keep yourself sharp and in tune as an actor. Here’s where to find FREE material. -
Auditioning for a commercial requires a different mindset than other auditions. Here is how to best behave at an advert casting so that you make all the right impressions. -
Auditions can be daunting affairs and the nerves can pile on, especially if you are doing it for someone else: the director, your agent, your parents, your peers. Next time do it for you, have a go at ‘trying on’ the role. -
From Guest Author – Marci Liroff – Do you ever flub a line or get lost when you’re auditioning for a role? It’s a horrifying feeling when that happens and I’m going to tell you how to win over the room when this happens. -
Finding the perfect birthday present or opening night gift for an actor can be tricky – here is a list of Shakespeare themed presents which should help you. -
From Guest Author Josh McHugh – “Have a secret.” This was the easiest piece of advice I have received in an actor’s studio. These words (highly paraphrased) came from the mouth of perhaps one of the finest actors of our generation, Meryl Streep.
