Why Copying Actors' Behaviors in Theatre is Considered Unethical and Unoriginal

Theatre is a unique art form that thrives on individuality and creativity. While there are countless actors who bring depth and authenticity to their roles, it is important to acknowledge that each performance is a reflection of the actor's unique approach and interpretation. Copying a fellow actor's behavior on stage is more than just a sign of laziness; it is a serious ethical and artistic issue. As a theatre critic and educator, I have witnessed and assessed performances that demonstrate this very problem, leading to the use of the term 'plagiarism' in the context of theatre.

Acting is Not Surface Mimicry

Acting requires a deep understanding and internalization of the character. Each performance is a living, breathing entity that evolves with the actor's interpretation and input. Legends like Hamlet have been performed by actors as varied as Mel Gibson, Kenneth Branagh, and Laurence Olivier. Each brings their unique life and understanding to the role, resulting in a performance that is distinct and genuine. Acting is about bringing yourself to the part, not about pretending to be someone else on the surface level.

The Underlying Ethical Concerns

It is important to understand why copying another actor's behavior is not just a matter of laziness. Ethically, it is a form of intellectual property theft. Just as it would be unethical to steal someone's written words and claim them as your own, it is equally unethical to take someone else's performance and present it as your own. This is not only disrespectful to the original actor but also to the audience who expects a unique, authentic performance.

The Consequences of Plagiarism in Theatre

Theft of this nature can have severe consequences. Many actors have faced legal action and public condemnation for their lack of originality. The legal system has even been involved in cases where actors have been accused of stealing scripts, musical numbers, and other elements of a performance. A famous example is the lawsuit surrounding the Beauty and the Beast musical, where the original creators accused a Broadway production of stealing key elements of their production.

The Importance of Originality and Authenticity

But why would anyone even consider copying another actor's behavior in their performance? While there may be some unique occasions, such as when a comic is doing impersonations, and that is acceptable if the performance is genuinely funny, in most cases, it is bizarre, ugly, and bizarrely disrespectful.

Conclusion

As we continue to appreciate and critique the art of theatre, it is crucial to uphold the principles of originality, authenticity, and integrity. By avoiding the temptation to copy another actor's behavior, performers and educators alike can foster a culture of honesty and originality that enriches the theatrical experience for both the performers and the audience. Theatre thrives on the unique journey and interpretation that each actor brings to the stage. Let's strive to honor that.