In the realm of acting, an actor must embody a character fully without passing personal judgment on that character's actions or beliefs. This means that even if a role presents someone like Hitler—someone known for horrific deeds—an actor should not approach the performance with condemnation but rather seek to understand and portray the complexity of the character’s motivations and mindset.
The deeper meaning of this quote delves into the essence of empathy and objectivity in art. Janet Suzman emphasizes that true acting involves stepping beyond one's personal moral compass to explore the intricacies of human behavior, regardless of how morally reprehensible a character might be seen as by societal standards. By not standing in judgment, an actor can create more nuanced and believable performances that invite audiences to question their own assumptions about right and wrong, fostering a richer understanding of complex issues through art.
Janet Suzman is a distinguished South African actress and theatre director known for her work with the English Theatre Company and later the Market Theatre in Johannesburg. She has had a long-standing career dedicated to both stage performances and directing, earning recognition for her versatility and commitment to portraying challenging roles with depth and integrity.