Actors, and action

In the performing arts, some of the best directors don't tell their actors exactly what they want to see.

But they still have a way of saying things that will generate the results they want.

I saw this yesterday, at my daughters audition for a local community theater.

The scene was a conflict between a mother and daughter. After the first reading the director said, "Good. Let's try it again, and this time, Mom, I want you to let yourself get a little more worked up. Let your words scare her. Let's see what that does to the interaction. And Daughter, if her words frighten you, see if that changes how you react. I think it might make your response less angry and more ... something else. Do you see what I mean?"

He didn't say, “I want to see some tears.” But he got them.

He didn't say, “I want the audience to react with sympathy.” But he got it.

He didn't say, “I want to see the desperation in these people's lives.” But he got that too.

Here's the thing:

Telling your people exactly what you want can sometimes work. I mean “Donate Now!” certainly seems like the obvious thing to say.

But people are unpredictable and complex. Telling them “Do this now” might get you a short-term response and nothing more. It might just generate resistance.

On the other hand, careful messaging can stimulate folks to act from within. Plant a seed in their mind, and watch it sprout naturally into actions that, while unpredictable, align their own desires and personality with your mission and programs.

Telling them that their help is needed is one thing.

Making them feel that their help is needed — that’s quite another.

All the best,
A.