2.
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If you have ever been in a
school play or even made to believe you were a doctor, a detective, or a space
traveler, you know the enjoyment that acting brings. Almost all of us have the
wish to play the part of someone — or something else.
In the ancient world, acting
was often connected with religious ceremonies and other special occasions. As
far back as 2200 B.C., trained Chinese actors performed ceremonial dances in
costume and makeup at harvest festivals.The imitation (模仿) of movements and gestures
was gradually added to the dance, as well as the wearing of masks, the singing
of chants, and finally the use of dialogue.
While acting was coming into
its own in the ancient Chinese classical theatre, it was doing the same in the
western world, in Greece. From about 500 B.C. on, acting became a highly specialized
art in Greece. Greek actors, however, still wore masks, and their motions (动作) were largely fixed by
custom.
Modern acting, by contrast,
gives the individual actor great opportunity to develop his or her personal
talents for serious, comic, or musical drama. The names, faces, and styles of
famous movie actors are known worldwide.A special form of acting takes place in
radio drama, which was highly popular before television. In radio drama the
actors face a unique challenge. They are unseen by their audience. So they must
rely on voice alone to make their characters real to the listeners.
Only forty percent of Broadway actors are
employed, most of them for only part of the year. Those who become stars need
not only talent, but determination. They must not be easily discouraged.
Otherwise, they might give up before the opportunity for fame presents itself.
A.
The origins of acting are in the act of remembering.
B.
Drama in Greece began with festivals honoring Dionysus.
C.
It is believed that this was the first step in the development of acting.
D.
Historical records indicate that this desire is as old as civilization itself.
E.
Acting is not, as many people think, a quick, easy road to fame and riches.
F.
Broadway and television provide other stages on which actors can display their
talent.
G.
Consequently, they had little opportunity to display their individual
personalities.