Final answer:
The technique where actors use their own personal emotions in place of their character's is called substitution. This allows actors to bring authentic emotional responses to their portrayals, especially when they do not naturally connect with the character. Substitution requires balance and collaboration for a believable performance.
Step-by-step explanation:
When actors use their own personal emotions to fuel the portrayal of a character's emotions, the technique is known as substitution. It is a way for actors to bring a genuine emotional response to their performance when they cannot or do not feel a natural emotional connection to the character they are playing. This approach enables actors to tap into their own real-life experiences and emotions, using them as a catalyst to embody the character's emotional life on stage or screen.
Actors practicing substitution might recall a personal memory or feeling that aligns with the emotional energy required for the scene. However, it is crucial that while they draw from their own experiences, they must maintain the integrity of the character's narrative within the context of the play or film.
The challenge with substitution is balancing the actor's emotional and physical demands with the responsibility and collaboration required in the theatre or on set. This balance is essential for creating a believable and sustainable performance that respects the actor's own psychological well-being and the dynamics between fellow actors.