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Question:
I'm studying acting and
my parents are diehard M*A*S*H fans that STILL watch the reruns. I saw you
and thought you were great. Can you share any “behind the scenes” info as to working
across Alan Alda? Any performance tips would be appreciated as well.
I (and my parents) thank you in advance! —Helen M., West Hollywood,
CA
“MASH” taught me the vast difference between being a series regular and a guest-star,
especially in a film situation. When an actor appears
as a guest-star on film, they are lucky to get one decent take to deliver
their close-up. Whereas the series regulars (the regular cast), can take
as many as they'd like or need.
What stunned me was, here I had a five-page intimate scene with Alan Alda,
a real actor's dream come true, and he didn't know any of his lines! At
first, I didn't know what to do. I took to heart the danger of an actor's
repetitive performance getting stale, but then felt confident that I was
good enough to get around it. Hence, I volunteered to rehearse my scenes
with Alan. Many actors would have had a line-reader step in. But, for me,
the lack of Alan knowing his lines allowed me to rehearse with him, over
and over; therefore, I really got to know him, like him, and “love
him,” as I needed to do in our scene. And, finally, after his 25 takes… I got my one.
Guest starring on “MASH” offered one great experience after another,
but what was extra-special for me was, when I was young and in love with
musicals, my mom took me to New York City where I saw an incredible performance
of “Sweet Charity”, featuring Gwen Vernon. What a thrill it was,
years later, to be in the same show of “MASH” with her!
Thanks for your question, Helen, and good luck with your career! |
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