As an actor, do you practice facial expressions in the mirror?

Question

Has there ever been an emotion you couldn't convey on stage by way of facial expression, vocal intonation or whatever other tool was at your disposal?

Answer 1

As was said, facial expressions come from what you feel. Acting is not about acting, it is more about "being".

Start taking classes and your technique teacher will teach you how to "be" and about the reality of doing.

Tony

Answer 2

Both of these answers are spot on. Real performance comes from honest emotions within you, not from your ability to "mock" the expression.

Answer 3

No, because it is fake....I use my natural facial expressions...

Answer 4

I am always observing my emotions and the emotions of others and thinking of how I could be able to duplicate this on stage.  

As and actor, you always have to be aware of your surroundings and what the people around you are doing.  

I'll observe to strangers fighting and notice the subtle body language one uses and work that into a character.  Little quirks and personality tics can help to make a character more real, alive, and believable for the audience.

As for the mirror, I practice monologues in my room alone in-front of my mirror.  This is a great tool for expression and being able to see what you are doing.  This is because sometimes we don't know if we are using facial expression of not.  

Performing in-front of an audience is always the best thing once you are comfortable with a monologue, scene, or what ever you are doing.  That way you can see their personal reactions and they can give you feedback,

Answer 5

I never practice facial expressions in front of the mirror.  I find it impossible to act and observe myself at the same time.  Facial expressions come from the feelings inside and I feel that they look more "real" when they are not rehearsed.

YMMV

Answer 6

NEVER!  No.  If you are talented and know how to act, you don't need to worry about it.