Character Quote by Sarah Lancashire
“You start out with scripts pre-written, with no specific actor in mind, so you've got to build a character on top of that foundation. It's not just lifting words off the page, it's constructing a history around them as well.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Acting Craft, date unknown
Actors must build a character from a script, adding backstory and depth beyond the written words.
In simple terms: Create a character by adding history to the script.
Key Takeaway
Develop a rich backstory.
Themes
acting
character development
storytelling
craft
Mood
inspirational
practical
Type
educational
motivational
When to use this quote
- theatre
- film
- TV auditions
- workshop rehearsals
- character workshops
Key Concepts
method acting
character immersion
narrative construction
Questions to Reflect On
- How does a backstory influence performance choices?
- When should an actor improvise beyond the script?
A Different Perspective
Over‑reliance on backstory can limit spontaneity.
