Actors Quote by Philip Auslander
“The dilemma of Brechtian performance is that, for all of Brecht's emphasis on rationality and the undermining of theatrical illusion, the actor must convincingly portray something that she is not.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Brechtian Performance Studies by Philip Auslander, 1995
Brecht’s theory demands actors to present rational, non‑illusory performances, yet they must still convincingly embody characters they are not.
In simple terms: Actors must rationally portray roles they don’t truly embody.
Key Takeaway
Embrace the paradox of rational performance.
Themes
theatre
acting
Brecht
paradox
illusion
Mood
analytical
creative
Type
theatrical
educational
When to use this quote
- stage productions
- film acting
- educational workshops
Key Concepts
method acting
epic theatre
authenticity
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance rational technique with authentic feeling?
- Can you find new ways to convey truth without illusion?
A Different Perspective
The tension can hinder genuine emotional connection with the audience.
![“I've never done a [Berthold] Brecht. In the 1960s when the Berliner Ensemble came over [to England] with Helene Weigel [Brecht's second wife], I saw all the Berlin actors. It was an amazing time, very exciting early 1960s.” quote by John Hurt](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/76e/john-hurt-1669_1960s_i-ve-never-done-a-berthold-brecht-in-the_871014.jpg)
