stilted performance
[/ˈstɪltɪd pərˈfɔːrməns/]
noun phrasepl: stilted performances
atuação artificial/forçada
1. A performance that is unnaturally formal, awkward, or lacking in spontaneity; acting that seems stiff, forced, or overly theatrical rather than natural and convincing
The actor's stilted performance in the drama made it difficult for the audience to connect with his character.
A atuação artificial do ator no drama dificultou a conexão da plateia com seu personagem.
2. Any presentation or delivery of lines that sounds unnatural, rehearsed, or mechanical
Her stilted performance of the poem showed a lack of emotional engagement.
Sua declamação forçada do poema revelou falta de envolvimento emocional.
In both American and Brazilian theatrical contexts, a 'stilted performance' is considered a mark of an inexperienced or poorly directed actor. Brazilian theater critics frequently use this term ('atuação artificial') in reviews to describe performances that lack the 'naturalidade' highly valued in contemporary acting. The term implies criticism of authenticity and emotional truth, which are core values in modern drama across both cultures.
NYC Slang
dry acting; stiff performance; robotic performance
Related Idioms & Phrases
acting like a wooden plank
delivering lines like a robot
theatrical and unnatural
lacking chemistry on stage
playing it too safe
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →