Thai Actors and Their Methods of Characterization

Abstract

This article discusses findings from interviews with 26 Thai actors on their methods of characterization. It was found that Thai actors have two concepts regarding their style and beliefs towards acting: (1) good acting naturally portrays normal characters in a realistic manner, (2) a major component of acting is ‘becoming the character.’ Participants reported needing a character’s actions to be logical, and therefore need to thoroughly analyze a character so they can completely transform into the character. Methods of characterization were found to be consistent with approaches in the works of Stanislavski. This is in part due from Pantoomkomol (1995)’s import of these ideas into Thai performing arts contexts. However, it was also found that participants’ methods were still flexible, and a view of characters as unique was prevalent. In sum, actors were found to focus on the characters rather than the methods as the best means to communicate with an audience.