The Power of ‘Intending’ in Acting and Performance

In the craft of acting, every scene begins with an underlying purpose—a driving force that propels the character forward. This purpose, often rooted in the character’s desires or goals, manifests as the emotion of ‘Intending’. Actors use this emotion to embody characters who are purposeful, goal-oriented, and driven by clear intents that shape their actions and reactions. Whether a character is pursuing justice, seeking revenge, striving for love, or fighting for survival, their intent is the internal compass that guides their behavior and adds depth to their performance.

‘Intending’ is a nuanced and dynamic emotion—it is not simply about having a goal, but about embodying the unwavering commitment to that goal, infusing every movement, line, and gesture with deliberate purpose. This emotion allows performers to remain emotionally focused, motivated, and authentic, transforming their performances from mere reactions into powerful affirmations of their character’s journey. When a performer fully inhabits the emotion of ‘Intending,’ they communicate to the audience that their actions are purposeful, their choices are meaningful, and their emotional life is interconnected with their objectives.

Full Definition and Summary of ‘Intending’ in Acting

Core Meaning:
‘Intending’ refers to the active, conscious commitment to a specific goal or purpose within a scene or performance. It is the internal drive that energizes a character’s actions and shapes their emotional state.
Key Characteristics:
- Focused Purpose: The character’s actions are driven by a clear desire or goal.
- Deliberate Movement: Every gesture and movement is intentional, aimed at fulfilling the objective.
- Emotional Commitment: Deeply connected to the character’s emotional state—passion, determination, or resolve.
- Sustained Engagement: Maintains consistent focus on the goal throughout the scene.
- Clarity of Intent: The character’s purpose is understood internally and communicated externally through behavior.
- Powerful Presence: The actor’s awareness of their intent creates a commanding, authentic presence.
- Transformative Action: The act of intending influences the character’s choices and responses, creating a narrative arc of growth, conflict, or resolution.
Implications for Performance:
When actors embody ‘Intending,’ their performance radiates authenticity and conviction. It anchors the emotional life of their character, allowing audiences to follow the internal logic of their actions. The emotion of ‘Intending’ elevates scenes from reactive to proactive, making every gesture and line purposeful and compelling.

Choosing Scenes Focused on ‘Intending’

To deeply explore this emotion, select scenes in which characters pursue clear goals amid obstacles or conflicts. Look for moments where intentions are articulated explicitly or conveyed through subtle behavior—such as a determined gaze, a purposeful stride, or an unwavering gaze. Scenes where characters are strategizing, negotiating, confronting, or making decisive choices are ideal. Focus on the internal motivation that guides their actions and the external expressions that communicate their resolve. Such scenes allow actors to explore both the strength and vulnerability of intent, making their portrayal authentic and impactful.

Seven Songs That Embody the Emotion of ‘Intending’

“Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor— Embodies determination and focus.
“Fight Song” by Rachel Platten— Represents resilience and purposeful determination.
“So What” by Miles Davis— Captures confident intent and boldness.
“Hall of Fame” by The Script feat. Will.I.Am— Motivates pursuit of greatness with clear intent.
“Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” by Kelly Clarkson— An anthem of resolve and empowerment.
“Rise” by Katy Perry— Embodies perseverance and unwavering intention.
“Unstoppable” by Sia— Reflects unstoppable drive and focus.

Sixteen Theatrical Scenes That Capture ‘Intending’

A hero planning their next move against formidable adversaries.
A business leader delivering a decisive speech to rally their team.
A lover expressing unwavering commitment despite obstacles.
A detective determined to solve a complex case.
An athlete preparing for a crucial competition.
A parent making a difficult decision for their child’s future.
A character confronting an enemy with clear purpose and resolve.
A student preparing a thesis or presentation with dedicated focus.
A revolutionary rallying supporters for change.
A hero fighting to save loved ones at great personal risk.
An artist forging ahead despite criticism and setbacks.
A mentor guiding a protégé toward a clear goal.
A lawyer closing a case with unwavering confidence.
A scientist pursuing groundbreaking research.
An individual confronting their inner doubts to achieve a life-changing

A portrayal of a monarch issuing a decisive order to lead their kingdom through crisis.

Each of these scenes centers on characters whose actions are driven by a strong, unwavering purpose. They exemplify what it means to act with intention and focus, making them perfect choices for honing and demonstrating the emotion of ‘Intending’ in performance.

Eight Film Monologues That Reflect ‘Intending’

“The Speech of the Leader” — A monologue in which a leader passionately commits to a cause, showing unwavering resolve.
“The Final Reckoning” — A character determined to confront their past mistakes with clear intent to seek redemption.
“In the Heat of the Moment” — A scene where spontaneity and purpose collide, demanding deliberate action.
“The Negotiator’s Resolve” — A character strategizing and asserting their intent during a negotiation or confrontation.
“The Pursuit of Justice” — An attorney or activist passionately fighting against injustice with unwavering purpose.
“The Last Stand” — A hero or protagonist making a final, decisive move in a moment of crisis.
“Inner Conviction” — A character committed to their moral beliefs, despite external pressures.
“The Mentor’s Declaration” — An elder inspiring a young apprentice with a committed vision for the future.

These monologues highlight the power of intention—being clear about goals, unwavering in pursuit, and emotionally committed to action.

Five Audition Pieces Focused on ‘Intending’

“The Ultimatum” — A scene where the actor must convey unwavering resolve to make a decisive choice.
“The Confrontation” — An audition requiring a character to stand firm against opposition, demonstrating clarity of purpose.
“The Motivation Speech” — A monologue where a character rallies others with a strong, focused intent.
“The Decision” — A scene depicting a character making a difficult choice with full resolve.
“The Goal-Oriented Scene” — An excerpt where the actor actively pursues a specific goal, embodying purpose and determination.

These pieces challenge actors to embody conviction and control, showcasing their ability to live fully within their character’s intent.

Conclusion: Embracing ‘Intending’ to Reach New Performance Heights

In the craft of acting and storytelling, ‘Intending’ is more than just a goal or objective—it’s a vital state of purpose that infuses scenes with direction, energy, and authenticity. When actors act with clear intent, they create performances that resonate deeply, inspiring audiences and elevating the narrative beyond words alone. The emotion of ‘Intending’ anchors characters in their truth, making their actions compelling and their journeys believable.

Practicing scenes, monologues, and audition pieces centered on deliberate purpose not only enhances technical skill but also develops a performer’s inner conviction. By nurturing the habit of acting with intention, artists can transform their craft from mere depiction to powerful storytelling that leaves lasting impact. Embrace the emotion of ‘Intending,’ and watch as your performances gain clarity, focus, and a truly captivating sense of purpose. Let your intentions drive your acting practice—because when you know what you want and pursue it with passion, nothing can stand in your way.

Emotional Preparation Technique