Acting Quote by Harold Clurman
“The actor's physical type isn't and shouldn't be the main consideration. Does the actor look the part? It is the simplest question to deal with. The director deludes himself who yields to the temptation to believe that an affirmative answer settles the matter. An actor's looks will impress an audience initially, but after his first five minutes on stage it becomes aware of what he or she communicates (or fails to communicate) through acting!”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Art of Acting, Harold Clurman, 1950
Physical appearance is secondary; true performance is judged by the actor's ability to convey character and emotion, not by looks alone.
In simple terms: Looks matter less than skill.
Key Takeaway
Focus on communication, not appearance.
Themes
acting
performance
authenticity
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
advice
instructional
When to use this quote
- casting decisions
- audition coaching
- director workshops
- acting classes
Key Concepts
characterization
communication
audience perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How can directors prioritize skill over appearance?
- What methods reveal an actor's true communicative ability?
A Different Perspective
Relying on looks can overlook talent and lead to shallow casting choices.
