Space for Truckdrivers

...the first in an occasional series discussing the mechanics of acting for the Stage...








"Pace," as used in the theatrical world, means the rhythm of a production. It reflects character, motivation, and urgency (or lack thereof). Take this hypothetical:





Actor A: "I got a phone call asking for Blah Blah Blah."


Actor B: "Who is Blah Blah Blah???"


Actor C: "That's me. They call me that at [insert hysterical punchline]"





It is a very traditional and very effective formula to build to a joke, and keeps up the momentum of the show.





But suppose all of the actors are not tuned into the rhythm of the moment? The following might happen:





Actor A: "I got a phone call asking for Blah Blah Blah."


[beat.]


[beat.]


[beat.]


[beat.]


[beat.]


[beat.]


[beat.]


Actor B:" Who is Blah Blah Blah?"








A "beat," as used in the above context, is simply a pause. Not a full second, but a pause of silence. Think of it as a heartbeat.





Perhaps Actor B is pausing for six or seven beats because he/she is doing a lot of "silent acting" before he/she can deliver the next line.





But a savvy director is sure to point out that a long pause is unnecessary at this point, and is even detrimental in a farcical, high-voltage production. It's likely to reflect a lack of urgency in the proceedings.





In that case, that director might say:

"You could drive a truck through that cue."