Get into character
Meaning
To fully adopt the mannerisms, personality, and emotional state of a role, often in preparation for a performance.
Origin
The notion of an actor deeply immersing themselves in a role dates back to antiquity, but the specific idiom "get into character" gained prominence alongside the evolution of acting theory. As performance moved beyond mere recitation and grand gestures, particularly with the rise of naturalism and method acting in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, actors were increasingly encouraged to delve into the psychology and internal world of their roles. This explicit preparatory process of embodying a role's persona, not just its lines, solidified the phrase as a common and essential directive in the performing arts.
Examples
- Before stepping on stage, the actor would spend an hour alone in his dressing room, listening to music to get into character.
- She tried to get into character for her important job interview by imagining herself as a highly confident and competent professional.