Seth Barrish, actor, director, and co-founder of the Barrow Group theatre company, shares his insights on authenticity in performance. He discusses techniques to engage audiences genuinely and how to handle nerves to elevate performances. Seth shares a memorable conversation with John Cleese about the essence of humor and its connection to authenticity. He emphasizes the transformative power of public rehearsals and the importance of feedback in refining storytelling skills. If you're looking to enhance your communication, this chat offers invaluable tips.
Seth Barish emphasizes the importance of audience engagement over content quality, advocating for spontaneity to enhance storytelling effectiveness.
Reframing nerves as excitement allows performers to connect authentically with their material, transforming vulnerability into a powerful storytelling asset.
Deep dives
Engagement in Storytelling
Effective storytelling requires focusing on audience engagement rather than merely assessing whether a story is good or bad. Listening for cues about listener engagement is crucial, as it helps determine areas for improvement. Seth Barish emphasizes differentiating between content-related issues and performative aspects, noting that stories can feel less engaging when they appear overly scripted. By fostering spontaneity and interaction, storytellers can create a more captivating experience for their audience.
Feedback Techniques for Storytellers
Barish recommends specific, action-oriented questions to solicit constructive feedback from listeners, such as identifying the most engaging moments or pinpointing where confusion arises. This approach allows storytellers to refine their narratives by recognizing communication breakdowns. For instance, if audience members report losing interest at a certain point, it becomes a clear signal to revisit and clarify that section. Such feedback is more valuable than generic opinions about personal tastes, as it directly pertains to the effectiveness of the story being told.
The Importance of Spontaneity in Storytelling
Encouraging storytellers to rely on bullet points instead of fully written scripts promotes a more authentic and energetic delivery. This method allows for spontaneity in storytelling, as performers can communicate ideas in a more conversational tone. When stories are told in a fresh and unscripted manner, it enhances the overall engagement level and fosters a stronger connection with the audience. The natural flow of conversation often yields unexpected insights and memorable moments that a scripted approach may miss.
Reframing Anxiety as Engagement
Experiencing nerves before a performance is common, but reframing these feelings as indicators of excitement can be beneficial. Barish suggests that nerves signal a heightened awareness and connection to the material, making the story more engaging for both the storyteller and the audience. This newfound perspective allows performers to embrace vulnerability and spontaneity in their delivery, which can significantly enhance audience connection. Emphasizing the value of real emotions can transform nervousness into a powerful storytelling tool.
Seth Barrish has directed Netflix comedy specials, acted in major movies and TV shows and co-founded one of NYC’s most exciting theatre companies, the Barrow Group. He also coached Gigi when she wrote and performed her one-person show for NYC’s United Solo Theatre Festival.
Join Gigi for this conversation with Seth about how to foster a performance that feels real, not fake or forced. Seth reveals ways to handle nerves and sound like a real person having a real conversation. Although Seth hates to name drop, he does tell the story about a conversation he had with the actor John Cleese, of Monty Python fame, about what comedy needs to be truly funny.