David Ihrig
The Challenge of Character
Understanding a character isn't the same as embodying one.
Most actors know how to analyze a scene. Fewer have a clear process for turning that understanding into behavior.
That’s the gap this book explores.
Where the process becomes less clear
Actor training has developed powerful tools for:
- script analysis
- responsiveness
- truthful interaction
But one part of the process is often less clearly defined:
What is the step between script research… and character embodiment?
Many actors don’t learn that step directly.
They develop it over time.
What this book actually does
The Actor’s Algorithm focuses specifically on how behavior is generated.
It begins with a more precise approach to script analysis.
Not just identifying circumstances or objectives, but uncovering the specific meanings that drive a character’s behavior.
From there, the process moves step by step:
- identifying what drives behavior through a more targeted level of analysis
- building the character’s belief system
- creating character-specific memories
- integrating those memories into performance
- shaping behavior through attention and environment
It focuses on identifying the meanings that generate behavior—and uses that information to build the character’s behavior from the inside out.
Try a Step Now!
Before deciding if this approach is useful, you can experience part of it directly.
Step 2 focuses on building a character’s driving belief—
a shift that shapes behavior and guides the discovery process.
Enter your email to try it.
The Actor's Algorithm:
Seven brain-based steps to embody behavior
A practical system for:
- turning interpretation into behavior
- building character from the inside out
- creating repeatable, authentic performances
- creating roles that work on stage and on camera
System includes:
- Worksheets for every step
- Audio files to create character memories
- a practical breakdown of the full system
All materials are included with the book via QR code access.
"David Ihrig’s new book provides a novel, engaging and compelling approach to the teaching (and learning) of acting based on psychological and neuroscience findings... A refreshing perspective on an ancient endeavor."
James L. McGaugh Distinguished Professor Emeritus UCI
"The Actor's Algorithm shows readers how to activate key parts of the brain to produce authentic responses on stage and on film. The brain-based techniques in this book are the update acting has needed and are sure to make learning the craft of acting faster and easier."
Paul J. Zak, PhD Professor and Author
"In the diverse landscape of today’s acting training, 'The Actor’s Algorithm' emerges as a crucial update to traditional methodologies. It isn’t just a book—it's a transformational tool that redefines the boundaries of acting training."
Chatgpt4.0, Acting as an Acting Expert (08 28, 2024)
Also available: The Actor's Machine
Mr. William T. Reilly Jr.–Five Stars!
"The ideas presented in this book will make you a better actor. It is that simple. Professor Ihrig is the first teacher I know of to integrate the innovations of modern behavioral science with the process of creating a character."
Denise McCanles–Five Stars!
"This is a wonderful book that takes modern behavioral science and applies it to acting. It makes so much sense. Realistic behavior equals realistic acting. DUH! Highly recommended!"
Jason M Smith–Five Stars!
"Beginning actors and master actors alike will find within these pages a pathway to instant believable consistent results that work on stage and on camera. The process cuts in half the time it takes to be a great actor."
Brandon Berg–Five Stars!
"I’ve studied acting since high school and this is the first acting technique that makes complete sense to me while helping me feel more organic when performing. In using all the modern research and knowledge that we have today this book provides the most up to date way of analyzing and executing acting that I’ve ever seen."