What Does The Term: There Are No Small Parts Only Small Actors Mean?

Question

What Does The Term: There Are No Small Parts Only Small Actors Mean?

3 Answers

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Answer 1

There are no small parts, as in each character written has a purpose and you must play said character accordingly. Your part is only as important as you make it. A "small" actor may see their bit part as insulting, where a good actor would take the opportunity to play the part to best of their ability, to be noticed in their own way if appropriate, sometimes a character's importance is in their subtlety alone, their anonymity. Even as a chorus member or an extra you are still there to set an ambience, to add to the show and therefore you should be in character and always doing your best.

Answer 2

Even if you play a minor role with only a few lines you don't appear in as many scenes as a main character, the role is still significant as part of the story and is important so the actor should see it as such and do their best. They should not give less than they would for a "bigger" role, both serve a purpose.

Answer 3

Loosely translated, it means that every story written is a great story, and if it should happen to be chosen to be made into a movie, or to put it on stage, they want an actor that is going to make the movie successful.
If the actor doesn't fit the movie, it could make the difference between a money maker, and a total flop. If they choose a little known actor that is a bad actor, it isn't going to get very far in the blockbuster movie business.
On the other hand, if the actor is huge, and they fit the part, it could be as big as "Star Wars" or "Passion of the Christ". So, hopefully, I could get this across to you without any confusion. Hope it helped.