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Any suggestions for staying in character?

Started by FreyBjorn, May 21, 2014, 05:45:52 PM

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FreyBjorn

So, creating a character isn't really my issue.  I've always been of a creative, literary bent so coming up with ideas isn't too difficult.  However, staying in some sort of character, particularly if there is an accent involved, for more than a few moments is tough for me. I seem to have a difficult time getting my brain out of modern conversational habits to effectively engage in discourse for any length of time.  It takes so much energy that I pretty quickly tire of it.  I guess maybe I don't have the acting skills/instincts it takes.

Anyone have any suggestions to help me stay on point for longer periods of time?
There is more in you of good than you know, child of the kindly West. Some courage and some wisdom, blended in measure. If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world. - J.R.R. Tolkien

Rani Zemirah

#1
I find that watching toms of movies for a few days beforehand, that are done in the appropriate accent and period, can be helpful in getting me into the right mindset.  Also, as much as possible, I try to carry on a running "monologue" in my mind in the accent I am planning to use, in the days before my outing.  It can also really help if you have friends who are into the same type of playacting, who are willing to be silly with you and sit around telling jokes, being chatty, and just generally having fun in accent, as well, to sort of "practice" your characterization before you try it out in a Faire setting.  Preferably with alcoholic beverages being consumed, since it's much easier to indulge in that sort of silliness when everyone is intent on having a good time to begin with!  ;)  heheh 

My very best advice, however, would be to just try to relax and have fun with it.  After all, that's the general reason for playing Dress Up and Pretend... isn't it?  :) 
Rani - Fire Goddess

Aut disce... aut discede

Orphena

I completely agree with Rani!

Having a cast / crew to interact with makes it much more fun. Movies are wonderful to get you in the mood.

Create enough of a back story that you know "who" you are, and how you see the world - it is so much easier to stay in character, interweave that story with those of your friends. Build your garb to help tell your story, and use props. For me, the character & accent appear when the corset goes on!

Challenge yourself - try to stay in character longer than your friends - make it an official game, and everyone will work a little harder at it!

I've often found that the better I get to know people, the harder it is to stay in character, so practice with strangers!

Luxurious Lady ~ Statuesque Seamstress ~ Winsome Wayfarer
Enjoyer of Elegant Elizabethan Ensembles

Aderin

Wonderful suggestions. It really is just acting all day long! eat sleep and breathe your character to life. The best characters are the most convincing of their authenticity to their audience!
"There is always hope." - Aragorn

Life is the School, Love is the Lesson.

FreyBjorn

Thanks to everyone who replied so far.  You've given me something to chew on. :)
There is more in you of good than you know, child of the kindly West. Some courage and some wisdom, blended in measure. If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world. - J.R.R. Tolkien