Every actor must learn to cry on cue for stage performances as well as television and movie filming. Crying convincingly is not an easy feat. However, with proper technique and preparation, it is a skill that any actor can learn and execute with ease. Take note of the following six methods for crying convincingly when acting to get you started.
- Concentrate on what crying looks like.
![How Do Actors Cry]( "How Do Actors Cry")
Attempt to stiffen your eye muscles, open your eyes a little wider, and resist the urge to blink. Think about how your upper back shakes and the whole body withers and crunches together a bit. - Think about something sad.
Focus on anything that makes you sad from a painful memory to a situation that makes you sympathetic. Sometimes sympathy can lead to grief, which then descends to crying. - Make your eyes water.
There are a couple common techniques for getting your eyes to water. The first is to hold your breath right before you begin a scene. The second is to make yourself yawn but then suppress the yawn. This method not only makes your eyes water but also makes your lip tremble as though you are going to start crying. - Let the tears carry the expression.
Nothing says phony like a face that screams, “Hey, I’m trying to cry!” Instead of making extreme, scrunched up faces, let the tears carry the mood. - Keep a bottle of eye drops on hand.
A bottle of eye drops can give you the aesthetic that you need in a pinch before a big scene when you don’t want to keep people waiting. While it may not be authentic, it will still be believable for the audience. - Own your acting space.
Allow ample time to prepare and do your work in a professional manner.
About Debora Wondercheck
Debora Wondercheck is the Executive Director of Arts and Learning Conservatory, a non-profit performing theatre school in Santa Ana, California. Debora has been with A&L for the past 7 years, where she has produced over 40 productions and helped create a highly reputed program. She loves inspiring and being inspired by children and works closely with parents and the staff to create a fun, unique and creative environment.
