A human being is complex and multi-dimensional, with layers of existence far beyond what is visible on the surface. A skillfully created character shares the same complexity. The method actor's mission is to portray that character as fully as possible and in doing so, to become that person. In order to achieve this, an actor must practice techniques that draw him or her deeply into the experience. These skills, taught in professional acting schools, require time and concentration to develop.

Method acting is more than pretending. It is experiencing. When the actor experiences the emotions felt by the character, he gives the nuanced sort of performance that brings that person to life. Real, genuinely felt emotions produce micro-expressions that can't be willed to appear. They simply happen. It is this sort of thing that makes a performance believable. Many of the acting schools London offers teach voice and movement well but fail to fully empower actors to reach their finest potential. For this, method acting schools are essential.

The exercises that help an actor to bring a character to life in a unique way must be practiced daily. They include a relaxation exercise that enables the actor to identify any tension that has crept into his body. This is different from meditation and is practiced until the actor can relax onstage without the audience being aware of the effort. Such practices are the foundation of method acting.

Structure is provided by sense memory. The actor employs sense memory in order to imagine that she is actually in a different place and time. This is accomplished first by concentrating on an object such as a cup, noticing every detail first visually, then of touch, and taste, and smell, and hearing. Every sense is employed so that finally the actor is able to reproduce the cup in her mind and feel it in her hands without its actually being present. Eventually, it is possible to conjure a complete setting in this way.

Method actors develop concentration to a very high degree so that, by focusing on a particular object, they are able to evoke the desired response. They can imagine ordinary objects to be magnificent jewels or dangerous creatures, depending on the demands of the role. They can concentrate on aspects of the setting so that they can feel freezing cold under the hot stage lights.

There is no quick or easy way to develop the skills needed for method acting. To become an artist who can convincingly portray a character, an actor needs to dedicate the time and effort to hone these skills. One of the find method acting classes London offers is an excellent, supportive environment where this can be achieved.