Character Quote by Lynn Nottage
“People probably have different philosophies about this, but I think that when you're first shaping the play and trying to find a character, the initial actors that develop it end up imprinting on it - you hear their voices; you hear their rhythms. You can't help but to begin to write toward them during the rehearsal process.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Playwriting discussion, 2015
Early actors shape a character through their unique voices and rhythms, influencing the playwright’s writing during rehearsals.
In simple terms: Actors imprint characters, guiding the writer.
Key Takeaway
Embrace actors’ input early.
Themes
creativity
collaboration
theatre
Mood
reflective
inspired
Type
process
theatrical
When to use this quote
- rehearsal process
- casting
- director‑playwright dialogue
Key Concepts
character development
embodiment
improvisation
Questions to Reflect On
- How does actor input change your original concept?
- When should a writer assert their own vision?
A Different Perspective
Actors may dominate, limiting writer’s original vision.
