The Encyclopedia of Interactive Performance

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Setting a focus

visualizing a skill for success before playing


Before a race, some Olympic swimmers stand by the pool with their eyes closed. They appear to be doing nothing, but inside their minds, they’re visualizing the race they’re about to swim, picturing themselves doing it perfectly. This is how they prep to do their best.

When inter-actors set a focus, they employ a similar process. Before playing, inter-actors think of something they want to do well in the work that follows. In their imagination they visualize themselves doing the technique perfectly.

Players may share their focus with the cast and crew during a pre-show circle, which allows everyone to be supportive of the player’s focus. Setting a focus can also be done as part of a skill quest. Visualize the desired skill before you train, then stop thinking about it. Set it and forget it.

Setting a focus allows the subconscious to introduce a skill, allowing you to stay attentive to the present moment while you play.

Updated: August 22, 2024

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Encyclopedia of Interactive Performance