3C's of Acting: CHARISMA

CHARISMA
We have all heard about the “it” factor.  Some people have “it,” some don’t.   I’ve talked to many people about what they think “it” is.  The tricky part is that “it” is tough to define.  In reality, the tricky nature is really part of its definition.  Some actors just have a innate quality about them.  They walk into a room and the mood changes for the better.  They can change the dynamics of time and space with their presence and personality.  To me, this is the very definition of charisma. 
Charisma is all about one’s grace, beauty, kindness and charm.  This is what we often refer to as the “it” factor.  An actor walks into my casting room for a role, and they literally light up the room.  How do they do that?  I don’t think it is that mystical as we think.  Think about a time when you have met someone who you thought possessed this “it” factor.  They really didn’t do anything mystical or miraculous.  They were kind, compassionate, caring, concerned, focused and “cool.”  
Great actors understand that charisma goes a long way in their performance on screen/stage and when working the audition circuit.  In reality, these memorable actors walk in with a lot of the same characteristics:

1.  A sense of purpose and poise-they look confident. The moment is not too  big for them.
2.  A sense of joy and kindness-they look friendly. They look like they want  to be there. 
3.  A sense of humanness-they act natural, not forced.  They aren’t trying to  impress anyone, they are just in tune and present with the situation at hand.  

I believe that charisma can be developed.  We can all learn to be more poised, joyful, and human.  We have to find ways to be more honest with ourselves.  This is why it is imperative to find an acting class to work in.  Great actors stay working in classes that allow them to be critiqued so they can truly learn where they can improve and grow.  For many actors, these discoveries  come down to preparation.  When we prepare for our performances, we can develop more confidence.  When we underprepare, our confidence and charisma is negatively affected.  
To increase charisma, we have to find ways to improve our preparation.  We have to find ways to improve our listening and communication skills when dealing with other professionals (actors, directors, teachers, etc.).  We so often get so caught up in the worry and anxiety that we forget to breathe, relax and center ourselves on the task at hand.  We all must reclaim our acting life by making it fun again.  Sure, it’s work.  Sure, it’s hard.  But there also was a time when it was fun, enjoyable and life-changing.  Tap into that, and your charisma will shine.