One of the most essential concepts in acting is the idea of “doing.” This principle, deeply rooted in techniques like the Meisner Technique, emphasizes that true acting is not about pretending or indicating emotions but about genuinely engaging in an action. When actors focus on actually doing something, their performances become more natural, believable, and emotionally truthful.
But what does “doing” really mean in acting? How can an actor apply it effectively in their performances? This article explores real-world examples of “doing” in acting and how they enhance storytelling in both stage and screen performances.
What is “Doing” in Acting?
“Doing” in acting refers to engaging in a real, purposeful action rather than pretending or indicating. Instead of faking an action, the actor genuinely performs it, creating truthful behavior that allows emotions to emerge naturally.
For example:
- Instead of pretending to write a letter, the actor actually writes it.
- Instead of mimicking the act of drinking coffee, they drink something real.
- Instead of acting as if they are searching for something, they actively look for it with genuine intent.
This approach keeps performances authentic and spontaneous, eliminating the forced or artificial emotions that come from mere pretense.
Examples of “Doing” in Acting
1. Washing Dishes While Arguing (Conflict and Multitasking)
Imagine a scene where two actors are in the middle of an intense argument while one of them is washing dishes. If the actor genuinely washes the dishes—scrubbing, rinsing, drying, and putting them away—it grounds the scene in reality.
Instead of standing still and delivering lines, the actor is physically engaged in an activity, which:
- Makes the argument feel more authentic because their attention is divided.
- Creates organic moments like dropping a plate in frustration or slamming a cabinet shut.
- Allows the actor’s emotions to emerge naturally as they focus on the task rather than forcing reactions.
This is a perfect example of “doing”—using a real action to enhance the emotional and narrative depth of the scene.
2. Packing a Suitcase in a Goodbye Scene (Emotional Subtext)
Imagine an actor who is leaving their home forever due to a breakup or a career move. Instead of standing and delivering dramatic lines, the actor should actually pack a suitcase—folding clothes, zipping bags, checking drawers for forgotten items.
This physical activity allows for natural emotional expression because:
- The act of packing itself becomes emotional, making the departure feel real.
- Decisions about what to take and leave behind create organic moments of hesitation, regret, or sadness.
- Instead of consciously thinking about sadness, the actor experiences it through the action of packing.
By focusing on doing, the actor lets the emotions come naturally instead of forcing them.
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3. Searching for Keys While in a Rush (Panic and Urgency)
Imagine a scene where an actor is late for work and can’t find their car keys. Instead of pretending to look, the actor should actually search—checking pockets, opening drawers, flipping couch cushions, and looking under furniture.
This real search does several things:
- The physicality of searching creates genuine frustration and urgency.
- It leads to unexpected moments—finding other lost objects, knocking things over, or tripping in haste.
- The energy and focus shift from just saying lines to truly experiencing stress.
This approach makes the scene more dynamic and relatable because the audience sees real human behavior rather than staged movement.
4. Writing a Letter and Rewriting It (Inner Conflict and Thought Process)
An actor struggling to write a letter—maybe a love letter, a resignation letter, or an apology—can create a deeply emotional moment. Instead of just talking about how they feel, they should actually write and rewrite the letter.
This works because:
- The act of writing forces the actor to confront their emotions.
- Pauses, crossed-out words, crumpled paper all show frustration or hesitation.
- Real writing leads to natural physical and emotional reactions—biting a lip, tapping a pen, sighing, or tearing up the paper.
The audience gets to witness the struggle visually, rather than just hearing about it through dialogue.
5. Eating a Meal While Talking (Naturalism and Authenticity)
Many films and plays include dinner table scenes, yet some actors struggle to make them look natural. Instead of pretending to eat, actors should actually cut their food, chew, sip their drink, and interact naturally.
Why is this important?
- Eating slows down speech naturally, making conversations more realistic.
- It creates real reactions—swallowing before speaking, using hand gestures while holding utensils.
- Actors must navigate multitasking between eating and speaking, just like in real life.
Scenes where actors genuinely engage with their food feel far more authentic than those where they only pretend.
6. Tying a Shoelace While Delivering an Important Line (Breaking Predictability)
Imagine a dramatic moment where an actor is revealing an important secret, but instead of standing still and speaking, they are tying their shoelaces.
Why does this work?
- It breaks the expectation of dramatic speeches being static.
- The focus on tying the shoe adds realism, making it feel like a real conversation.
- It can create interesting physical moments—pausing mid-lace, tightening the knot in frustration, or tying too fast from nervous energy.
By adding real physical action, the scene feels more natural and less like a staged performance.
How “Doing” Affects Performance and Storytelling
Engaging in real actions enhances acting by:
- Creating Spontaneity: Real actions lead to real reactions, making performances unpredictable and fresh.
- Avoiding Indication: Instead of “acting sad,” the actor experiences sadness through meaningful actions.
- Adding Layers to Emotion: Activities like packing, writing, searching, or eating reveal character emotions without needing exposition.
- Improving Scene Dynamics: Scenes with physical engagement feel more alive than static conversations.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Reality of Doing
Great acting isn’t about pretending—it’s about fully immersing in an action and allowing emotions to emerge naturally. The best performances come from actors who commit to real behavior in real time, making their work more engaging, unpredictable, and emotionally powerful.
By truly doing something, actors bring depth and authenticity to their acting, ensuring that every moment on stage or screen feels genuine and compelling.
Final Thoughts:
The actions of doing help to reveal authenticity. Authenticity is basically adding reality to an acting scene. You can add authenticity by both adding emotion as well as doings. The actor does need to pretend because they can simply receive the other actor while staying present with them. Adding doing to a scene helps many things including directing the focus of the actor.
Copyright 2025 Simon Blake
Link: 2100+ Emotions Compendium Available Now.
LINK: MEISNER ACTIVITIES. ORDER NOW!
Unlock the Secrets of Emotional Mastery with These 3 Books
Understanding and mastering your emotions is crucial for personal growth and well-being. By delving into the insights offered by these three books, you can enhance your emotional intelligence, improve your relationships, and navigate life’s challenges with greater ease. This journey towards emotional mastery not only benefits you but also positively impacts those around you.
Top Picks
- Best Overall: Reasons To Knock In Improv: Improvisation Drama Exercise Ideas Book – $21.99
- Best Value: Meisner Activities: Drama Activities for Improvisation – $21.99
- Best Budget: Emotionally Your’s: Compendium of Emotions – $4.99 with 76 percent savings
How We Chose These Books
When selecting these books, we considered their relevance to emotional mastery, practical exercises, and overall value for readers seeking to enhance their emotional intelligence.
Reasons To Knock In Improv
This book is your go-to guide for unlocking the power of improvisation in acting. Written by Simon Blake, it dives deep into how improvisation can enhance your emotional intelligence, creativity, and communication skills. Whether you’re a seasoned actor or just starting out, you’ll find practical exercises and insights that can transform your approach to acting and personal interactions. It’s perfect for both daily practice and special occasions, like theater performances or film projects. If you’re looking to add spontaneity to your craft and improve your emotional awareness, this book is a casual recommendation you won’t want to miss.
What People Say
Readers appreciate how the book combines practical exercises with insightful theories, making it a valuable resource for both personal growth and acting skills.
- This book has completely changed the way I approach my acting. The exercises are not only fun but also incredibly effective in building my confidence and spontaneity on stage.- TheaterLover92
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy-to-follow exercises
- Applicable to various acting techniques
- Promotes self-awareness and emotional growth
Cons:
- Some exercises may require a partner
Key Benefits
- Enhances emotional intelligence
- Boosts creativity and innovation
- Strengthens relationships through empathy
When to Use This Book
This book is ideal for anyone looking to improve their acting skills or enhance their emotional awareness in everyday life. It’s particularly useful for drama students and professionals in the performing arts.
Current Price: $21.99
Rating: 4.8 (Total: 150+)Buy Now
Meisner Activities: Drama Activities for Improvisation
This book is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to dive into the world of improvisation and acting. Authored by Simon Blake, it offers a treasure trove of practical exercises designed to boost your confidence, creativity, and emotional expression. Whether you’re rehearsing for a play or just want to enhance your everyday interactions, these activities are perfect for both casual practice and serious performance prep. If you’re eager to unlock your potential and embrace spontaneity in your acting journey, this book is definitely worth considering.
What People Say
Readers love how the book combines fun activities with serious skill-building, making it a go-to for both aspiring actors and seasoned performers looking to refine their craft.
- The exercises in this book are a game changer. They not only help me think on my feet but also allow me to explore my emotional range in a way I never thought possible.- ActingEnthusiast
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Engaging and varied exercises
- Suitable for all skill levels
- Encourages creativity and emotional depth
Cons:
- Some activities may require a partner
Key Benefits
- Enhances stage presence and confidence
- Fosters authentic emotional expression
- Improves teamwork and collaboration skills
When to Use This Book
This book is perfect for drama students, actors, and anyone interested in improving their communication skills through improvisation. It’s especially useful for theater rehearsals or acting classes.
Current Price: $21.99
Rating: 4.7 (Total: 120+)Buy Now
Emotionally Your’s: Compendium of Emotions
This insightful book by Simon Blake is your go-to guide for understanding and mastering your emotions. It dives deep into how emotions shape our lives, relationships, and decisions. With practical tools and psychological insights, you’ll learn to enhance your emotional intelligence, strengthen your relationships, and make better decisions in your creative endeavors. Whether you’re an actor looking to expand your emotional range or someone seeking personal growth, this book is a valuable resource. It’s perfect for daily reflection or when you need a little extra guidance in navigating your feelings.
What People Say
Readers appreciate how the book blends psychological insights with actionable exercises, making it accessible for anyone looking to improve their emotional awareness and communication skills.
- Emotionally Your’s has transformed how I view my emotions. The practical exercises helped me connect with my feelings on a deeper level, and I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my relationships and decision-making.- EmotionExplorer
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive and easy to understand
- Practical exercises for real-life application
- Suitable for both beginners and experienced individuals
Cons:
- Some concepts may require deeper reflection
Key Benefits
- Enhances emotional intelligence
- Strengthens personal and professional relationships
- Improves decision-making skills
When to Use This Book
This book is ideal for actors, educators, and anyone interested in personal development. It’s particularly useful during times of emotional stress or when preparing for performances that require emotional depth.
Current Price: $0.00
Rating: 4.8 (Total: 85+)Buy Now
FAQ
What makes these three books essential for emotional mastery?
These three books are designed to provide you with unique insights and practical exercises that can enhance your emotional intelligence. They cover different aspects of emotional mastery, from improvisation techniques that help you express and manage your emotions, to a comprehensive compendium that dives deep into understanding various emotions. By engaging with these books, you’ll find tools and strategies that can help you navigate your feelings more effectively and improve your overall emotional well-being.
How do I choose the right book for my needs?
Choosing the right book depends on what you’re looking to achieve. If you’re interested in hands-on activities and improvisation, ‘Reasons To Knock In Improv’ and ‘Meisner Activities’ are great options. They offer practical exercises that can help you practice emotional expression in a fun way. On the other hand, if you want a deeper understanding of emotions and how they affect you, ‘Emotionally Your’s: Compendium of Emotions’ is an excellent choice. Consider what resonates with you and what you hope to learn or improve upon.
Can I apply the concepts from these books in my daily life?
Absolutely! The concepts and exercises in these books are designed for practical application. You can start by integrating the exercises into your daily routine, whether it’s through journaling your emotions, practicing improvisation with friends, or reflecting on the emotional insights provided. The key is to be consistent and open-minded. As you engage with the material, you’ll likely find that your emotional responses become more manageable and your interactions with others improve.
Wrapping Up
By exploring these three books, you can unlock the secrets of emotional mastery. Each book offers unique insights and practical exercises that can help you understand and manage your emotions more effectively. Whether you are looking to improve your personal relationships or enhance your self-awareness, these resources will guide you on your journey towards emotional intelligence.
| Reasons To Knock In Improv: Improvisation Drama Exercise Ideas Book | Meisner Activities: Drama Activities for Improvisation | Emotionally Your’s: Compendium of Emotions | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  | |
| Rating | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Highlights | Improv drama exercises, 223 pages, paperback. | Drama activities, 159 pages, paperback. | Compendium of emotions, 332 pages, eBook. |
| Pros | Great for drama teachers and students. | Useful for improvisation training. | Affordable with significant savings. |
| Cons | No reviews available yet. | No reviews available yet. | Limited to digital format. |
| Price | $21.99 | $21.99 | $4.99 with 76 percent savings |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |