The #1 Mistake Actors Make in Comedy | Darren Gilshenan Interview - Ep 87

Episode 87: The Commerce of Comedy with Darren Gilshenan

Hosts Max and Sam welcome the incredibly versatile and award-winning actor Darren Gilshenan. With a career that spans over two decades and includes iconic roles in No Activity, Harrow, and Upright, he brings a wealth of technical knowledge and professional wisdom to the table. This conversation is a must-watch for any actor seeking to deepen their understanding of the craft through the lens of a true industry veteran.

Darren meticulously breaks down his unique processes for character creation, specifically highlighting the importance of Rudolph Laban’s eight physical efforts and Rowena Balos’s nine vocal resonators. He explains how these cornerstones allow an actor to maintain integrity throughout a long theatre run, even when the initial spark of a performance begins to fade. The discussion then shifts toward the intricate "commerce of comedy." He reveals why the most common mistake up-and-coming actors make is "trying to be funny." Instead, he advocates for finding the character's desperate dilemma and allowing behavioural humour to emerge naturally from a place of high stakes.

The episode also explores the nuanced differences between the "ceremony" of the stage and the technical instincts required for television. He shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from the mostly improvised set of No Activity, illustrating how he and Patrick Brammall developed their characters in real-time. From the dark, cerebral wit of Shakespearean clowns to the high-energy demands of Commedia dell'arte, Darren’s breadth of experience is truly unparalleled.

Finally, the conversation touches on the harsh realities of professional discipline. He offers the advice that shaped his early career at NIDA: the necessity of working harder than the "handsome" competition to stay relevant. We also get a sneak peek at his exciting upcoming projects, including Disney’s Nautilus and Colin from Accounts. Join us for a masterclass in acting that balances technical precision with raw, creative anarchy.

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Episode Webpage:  https://shorturl.at/Ay1Kn