Final answer:
An actor's aim when stretching a character is to emphasize the character's dominant trait in a believable way by connecting it to their own emotional reality and vulnerability, while maintaining a balance with the external demands of the performance such as physical expression.
Step-by-step explanation:
In stretching a character, an actor's aim is not to create an unbelievable exaggeration but to identify the character's dominant trait and then to emphasize it. This approach to character development emphasizes authenticity and relatability. When actors identify a vulnerable aspect of themselves that aligns with their character, they can amplify this trait to enhance the performance while remaining truthful and emotionally available.
The actor's challenge is to maintain this emotional authenticity while also collaborating reliably and consistently within the artistic process. This necessitates a balance between the internal work of the actor—such as emotional investment, vulnerability, and relationship to the character—and the external demands of the performance, like physical expression, conditioning, and technical skill.