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From my early days on shows like 8 Simple Rules and Listen Up, to my role as Trina Vega on Victorious, I have had the privilege of learning from some incredible actors and mentors. One of the most influential experiences was working with the Lively family, who ran an acting school that emphasized authenticity and emotional connection. Their guidance has been invaluable in shaping my approach to acting.
Whether you’re an aspiring actor or just someone who loves the craft, here are five acting tricks I’ve picked up over the years that you can start using today:
1. Practice your expressions in the mirror
Small facial movements can make a huge difference on screen. Spend time in front of the mirror experimenting with tiny expressions; a raised eyebrow, a subtle smirk, or even a quick eye roll. These micro-expressions help convey emotions without overacting, which is especially important in comedy or family-friendly shows. It also trains your face to communicate clearly even in close-up shots.
2. Study your character and make it your own!
You’re given a script and guidance from the director, but the rest is up to you. Really dig into who your character is, what they want, and how they move through the world. Add little quirks, gestures, or habits that feel authentic. Making the character your own is what transforms lines on a page into someone audiences care about.
3. Embrace the power of pause
Timing can make or break a scene, especially in comedy. Pausing just a beat before delivering a line or reacting can create anticipation, heighten humor, and make your performance feel natural. It’s not just about saying your lines. it’s about when you say them and letting the moment breathe.
4. Stay playful
Acting is supposed to be fun! Lean into the silliness, the spontaneous moments, and the unexpected ideas that pop up on set. Playfulness helps you stay in the moment, keeps your performance fresh, and often leads to some of the best, most memorable takes. Don’t be afraid to take safe risks and explore your character in unexpected ways.
5. Harnessing the way you emotionally react to a script
Speak your lines internally while reacting physically. This teaches you to act through emotion first, then add words, which makes performances feel more genuine.
Recording & Playback
It’s easy to miss small ticks or habits while performing. Record yourself practicing scenes on your phone or camera, then watch it back. You’ll notice gestures, timing, or expressions you can tweak, exaggerate, or tone down. Playback is one of the fastest ways to see yourself as others see you and to grow as an actor.
Acting has been such a huge part of my life. It’s shaped who I am, taught me empathy, and shown me the magic of connecting with others through storytelling. From my early days as a child actor to stepping into Trina Vega’s shoes on Victorious, every role has taught me something new about creativity, patience, and believing in yourself.
If you’re starting out or just exploring your own acting journey, remember: there’s no single right way to do it. Be playful, stay curious, and trust your instincts. The best performances come from being fully present, embracing the moments, and never being afraid to make them your own. Acting isn’t just about the spotlight, it’s about discovering yourself along the way, and I promise, it’s one of the most rewarding adventures you’ll ever take.
