In this episode, Todd Kramer and Jay Reum dig into the foundations of acting training — where it came from, how it developed, and why it still matters today.
The boys trace the roots of modern acting methods back to Eastern Europe and Russia, unpacking the ideas of the early methodologists, creators, practitioners, and students who shaped how actors train, rehearse, and perform. From structured systems to lived practice, they explore how these approaches evolved — and how they continue to influence performance across stage and screen.
Not every actor identifies as a "method actor," but most have been exposed to traditional acting methodologies at some point along the way. And for good reason: talent alone isn't enough to sustain a professional career. Craft matters. Training matters. Understanding why you do what you do matters.
This bonusode is a clear, accessible primer on acting methods and Method Acting — cutting through confusion, myth, and buzzwords to focus on what actually serves the work.
00:00 – Bonusode setup & why methods matter
03:30 – Talent vs training: clearing the confusion
08:20 – Where acting methods began
13:40 – Eastern Europe and Russian foundations
19:10 – The early methodologists and their goals
24:40 – From system to practice
30:10 – What "Method Acting" actually means
35:50 – Common misconceptions about the Method
41:20 – Technique vs psychology
46:50 – How methods shape modern performance
52:30 – When methods help — and when they don't
58:10 – Actors who reject methodology (and why)
01:03:40 – Finding what works for you
01:09:10 – Training as a lifelong process
01:14:30 – Final thoughts & wrap-up
Did you train in a specific acting method — or avoid them altogether? How has formal training shaped (or complicated) your work? Drop a comment and let's talk craft, discipline, and finding your own approach.
🎧 Podcast & more: https://offstageacting.com/podcast
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🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@offstageacting
🌐 Todd's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/toddkramer
🌐 Jay's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/jayreum
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