Which principle is commonly followed by actors during performances?

The principle of speaking your lines to someone rather than to yourself is essential in acting because it emphasizes the importance of interaction and connection with other characters on stage. This approach helps to create a more dynamic and believable performance, allowing actors to engage with the story and the audience effectively. By directing their lines towards another character rather than merely reciting them, actors foster authenticity and emotional resonance in their performances. This technique encourages the actor to react to their scene partner, thereby enhancing the overall narrative and drawing the audience into the experience.

In contrast, ideas like maintaining character at all times could limit the actor's ability to engage with other performers, and refraining from eye contact with the audience can create a disconnect that hinders the emotional connection necessary for effective storytelling. Focusing solely on memorization of lines overlooks the importance of emotional delivery, timing, and interpersonal dynamics that are crucial in live performances.