Saturday, July 11, 2009

Dialects

If you are an accomplished actor, then you probably have learned a number of different dialects of your native language and possibly even other languages as well. Dialects are varieties of languages that are particular to a specific region. Some well known dialects include the Souther drawl, Canadian, and even African American. Though people with these various dialects will speak the same language, English, certain words will be pronounced slightly differently that will differentiate them from one another.
As an actor, you will be asked to play various characters that will be from different regions and / or countries. To be successful at your task, you will be required to reproduce the various dialects for your characters. To learn how to speak in different dialects, you should find yourself a speech coach. Such a speech coach will be able to help you learn the various nuances in the different dialects you would like to learn and he or she will help you to be able to reproduce those dialects as closely as possible. Once you have learned a specific dialect, you will be able to add it to your list of skills on your resume.
The more dialects you have on your resume, the more jobs you are likely to get as an actor. This is because directors like actors who are versatile, so if the part changes, their actors can still play their parts. Moreover, many directors like to create long term relationships with their actors and use them in multiple projects. The more dialects you know, the more parts you can play, and thus the more likely it is that a director will hire you. Basically, knowing a lot of dialects shows that you are an accomplished actor.
A good way to pick up a dialect, especially if you are new to learning them, is to spend time in the region where the dialect is prominent. Speaking to local people with the dialect will help you pick it up in everyday conversations. You will be surprised how quickly you pick up a dialect when you are living and breathing it daily for a week or two.
Remember, acting is not only a skill you are born with, but it is also a skill and craft that you hone. Learning dialects is one of these skills that you learn and perfect. Do not be discouraged if you struggle with learning dialects in the beginning. As you exercise your vocal cords and stretch your limits, you will be able to perfect the dialects you are learning and even learn more.

Linus Orakles
http://www.authorclub.info/

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