How to be comfortable with on-stage shows of affection during Romeo and Juliet?

Question

I am playing Juliet, and a boy that I like is playing Romeo! I am not sure if there will be a kissing scene yet, but we did start blocking the balcony scene and we are only half way through, and so far, he holds my hand, hugs me and putshis arms around me. How can I get comfortable with this?

Answer 1

Try acting and remembering it is just acting.

Answer 2

practice. I'm not talking going to second base or anything, turn the lights off and get comfortable with each other. no you don't have to get all touchy feely, but you can at least learn to be comfortable with each other.

Answer 3

Oh, there are definitely some kissing scenes.  I had to do a scene as Juliet once... with a boy I HATED playing Romeo.  THAT was uncomfortable.  It's 'the morning after' scene.  They wake up in bed together, and Romeo has to leave; he's in exile.  Sometimes this scene is changed to make it a little more PG, so don't worry.

For me, this was incredibly difficult, but mostly in rehearsal, where I was more aware of who I was and my own actions.  But the main trick is remembering that a) it's not you, it's Juliet, b) it's not him, it's Romeo, and c) him being attractive only makes it more believable, lucky you.

On-stage chemistry is great to have, so even though it may be uncomfortable, it will probably make your performance better.  Just relax, and remember: it's ACTING.  Forget about him, forget about the fact that you like him, and immerse yourself in the character.  So if you kiss him, no gossip: it's just the play.  If you like it: no gossip, it's just the play.  Just a very nice part of the play that you get to keep to yourself.

If you pretend that it's not freaking you out or embarrassing you a little, then you get used to it.  The more you fake it, the more you start to believe it.

Oh, and congratulations on getting the leading role!  Knock 'em dead! (no pun intended)

Break a leg!

Ta!

-Tamora