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Humans are curious by nature. We have an inherent desire to find out what is going on with the people around us. It’s not always a bad thing, especially if it means checking in on a friend who needs support or hopping in on a collaborative art form. In many cases however, curiosity can lead to some uncomfortable situations and anxiety from multiple angles. We end up comparing ourselves to other people. Sometimes we breach others’ boundaries. In short, unless someone has invited you in and made it your business, rule of thumb is to mind your business.
Minding Your Business When Acting
When acting, being able to work well with your scene partner is vital. Actors must listen to each other to be able to respond in an authentic way. This work may feel like it is lending itself to your own curiosity but there is a definite line to avoid crossing. Absolutely enjoy what the other actors are giving you. Engage with it. Do not, however, offer unsolicited advice or direction as a fellow actor. You can only control what you do.
Your Needs, Your Business
If something is really feeling uncomfortable to you, have a side conversation with the director about it and let them handle it. In that way, you are taking care of yourself rather than trying to directly shift someone else’s behavior. Who knows, the director may even offer you a bit of insight that will help you re-connect to what that other actor is doing. Ask yourself why whatever the other person is doing isn’t working for you. Can you adjust something on your own or change your language to make it more about what you need instead of what another person is doing “wrong”?
The Business of Kindness
It’s important to remember that you don’t know what is going on in the lives of folks around you. The person you are interacting with may be having a truly rough day outside of whatever situation you are in. Why concern yourself with the way someone else is behaving when you could just adjust your own behavior? It costs nothing to be kind. Give yourself and those around you the gift of focusing on yourself and your own work. Make it your business to be considerate.