Meaning: This quote by Michael Shanks, a Canadian actor known for his role as Dr. Daniel Jackson in the television series Stargate SG-1, provides insight into the thought process of an actor preparing for a role. In this quote, Shanks reflects on his experience while working on a production of Hamlet during the off-season. He explains that he had a specific vision for how he wanted to portray the character, and he recognized the importance of establishing this portrayal in the show, as it would lead into his work in the following year.

Shanks' mention of having a "specific idea" about the character he was portraying in Hamlet highlights the thoughtful and deliberate approach that many actors take when preparing for a role. This idea signifies the importance of understanding the character's motivations, personality, and physicality, as well as how the character fits into the overall story. Actors often engage in extensive research and analysis to fully comprehend the nuances of their characters, enabling them to bring depth and authenticity to their performances.

Moreover, Shanks' reference to the character's appearance indicates the significance of physicality in character portrayal. The visual representation of a character can convey essential information about their personality, background, and emotional state. By having a clear vision of how he wanted the character to look, Shanks demonstrates an understanding of the visual aspects that contribute to the audience's perception and understanding of the character.

The statement "it's going to lead into the next year" suggests that Shanks recognized the continuity of his career and the interconnected nature of his professional engagements. As an actor, the choices made in one role can influence future opportunities and projects. By establishing a particular portrayal in one production, Shanks understood that it could serve as a foundation for his work in subsequent projects, emphasizing the importance of consistency and intentionality in his acting choices.

Additionally, the phrase "established somewhere in the show" indicates the strategic placement of the character portrayal within the larger context of the production. This underscores the collaborative nature of theater and performance, as actors work within the framework of a production to ensure that their characterizations align with the overall vision and narrative of the show. It also reflects the actor's awareness of the impact of their performance on the audience and the significance of effectively communicating their character's traits and story arc.

Overall, Michael Shanks' quote provides valuable insight into the thought process and considerations involved in shaping a character portrayal as an actor. It highlights the importance of having a clear vision for the character, understanding the visual representation, recognizing the continuity of one's career, and strategically establishing the portrayal within the context of the production. This reflective approach demonstrates the depth of thought and intentionality that actors bring to their performances, contributing to the rich and multifaceted storytelling inherent in theatrical and screen productions.