In one of Katie Mitchell's multimedia productions, one actor may find itself representing the voice of one character, the head of a second and the arm of a third. Meanwhile, a fourth actor might be manipulating lights and a video camera to relay the image to projection screens.

Improvising during rehearsals

Acting requires a wide range of skill, from the ability to control your voice to adopting physical attributes. A stage actor will often be required to research a period of history or particular topic to bring a character to life. This collection aims to give an insight into what it is like to be an actor at the National Theatre. Featuring Simon Russell Beale, Zoë Wanamaker, Lesley Manville, Rory Kinnear, Fiona Shaw, Ben Whishaw and Roger Allam.