This is for all you high schoolers out there. A stage kiss can either be that one thing you've waited years for or that one thing you have dreaded ever since the cast list came out. But, are there any ways to make stage kisses more bearable? What tips are actually myths?
1) It's not awkward unless you make it awkward.
That is a true fact, another fact is you two are going to kiss. But also, your characters are going to kiss, unless your character makes it awkward, it CANNOT be awkward. If you're nervous tell your scene partner, bets are that he or she is nervous too! Just be honest and open.
2) Practicing kissing offstage will definitely make it more natural.
This can be true. Communicate to your scene partner on how you want to do the kiss, if you two need to practice, practice! Build your chemistry, become friends, there is nothing worse than seeing a show and just not seeing the chemistry on stage.
3) What if they take it a little too far?
Especially in high school, when a kid gets nervous during a stage kiss, it gets wet and fast. If there is tongue or it is way to twisty and wet, let your scene partner go. It'll a whole lot better if you stay honest and communicate however you feel, even if it's awkward to say "Hey, so during our kiss it was a little fast and I don't want to have to wipe my mouth afterwards." It is okay, your scene partner will learn and so will you!
4) What if the thought of kissing makes me want to vomit?
It happens, you're cast with your arch enemy and you have to kiss them, what could be worse? A lot could be worse actually. Just remember the fact that it is not you kissing them, it's your character. And the character you're playing wants to kiss them, so imagine it's Aaron Tveit and get through it.
5) If you really don't feel comfortable kissing someone, how do you talk to your director about it?
People, in general respect someone who is honest. If you really do feel incredibly uncomfortable in the kiss, it would be better for you to let the director know.
6) So, what do I do with my tongue?
If it is just a plain old kiss, you better keep your tongue in your mouth. However, if it is a make out then just see what is comfortable. If the chemistry is there between the two of you, it will happen naturally, I promise.
7) Is it embarrassing that my first kiss was a stage kiss?
Absolutely not. A kiss is a kiss, you are not a kissing virgin anymore. Woohoo!
So here's what you should take from this: Communication is key, and being open and honest will make it not awkward.
Pucker up, kids.
Alie
@Campbellalie - Twitter
