Acting Quote by Sanford Meisner
“If you have the emotion, it infects you and the audience. If you don't have it don't bother; just say your lines as truthfully as you are capable of doing. You can't fake emotion.”
About This Quote
Source Teaching Method: Meisner Technique, Sanford Meisner, 1960s
Authentic emotion is essential; without it, performance feels insincere.
In simple terms: If you lack feeling, speak plainly and truthfully.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize genuine feeling over forced expression.
Themes
acting
authenticity
performance
emotional truth
craft
Mood
inspirational
practical
Type
acting
training
When to use this quote
- theatre rehearsals
- film auditions
- public speaking
- coaching
- improvisation
Key Concepts
method acting
psychology of audience
presence
truthfulness
Questions to Reflect On
- Can a performer convey truth without strong emotion?
- How does audience perception change with authenticity?
A Different Perspective
May limit actors who rely on technical skill over emotional access.
![“... as a convention, you get up and walk to the window to make the audience believe that you're looking out. It's for the audience , not for you! And what it means to you is something emotional [...] If you went to the Actors Studio you'd spend six months seeing the snow before you could say…” quote by Sanford Meisner](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f54/sanford-meisner-16477_acting_as-a-convention-you-get-up-and-walk-to-t_1157059.jpg)
