Teaching acting has allowed me to treasure every moment. However, I often find myself thinking about a quote attributed to George Bernard Shaw in his 1905 stage play Man and Superman.
“Those who can, do; those who can’t, teach.”
This 120-year-old sentiment, which most likely unintentionally diminishes the role of teachers, has persistently occupied my thoughts during my years as an acting teacher.
I frequently questioned if I possess such a wide range of acting techniques why was I not using them to advance my own acting career.
This internal debate continued until I came across a profound revelation captured in Aristotle's words.
“Those who know, do. Those who understand, teach.”
This alternative perspective deeply affected me and made me frustrated for not encountering it sooner. In that single moment of realisation, I understood the inherent truth that when we simply 'know' how to do something, we naturally lean towards doing it rather than attempting to articulate that knowledge.
On the other hand, when we deeply 'understand' something, a natural urge to pass on that understanding to others ignites within us. As humans, storytelling is deeply rooted in our essence, an integral part of our DNA.
This realisation has revealed a profound shift within me. While my passion for acting remains strong, it is overshadowed by the delight and fulfilment I experience from nurturing and guiding aspiring actors.
The joy and passion that teaching acting ignites within me have surpassed my initial enthusiasm for the craft itself, revealing a new path and purpose in my professional journey.
