For example, you can tell a joke or make light of the situation. Laughing about the kiss can reduce the pressure and make you both more comfortable.

Say something like, “Hey, John, I have to kiss someone in the next play. I feel weird about it, though. ” Reassure your partner that this is just a part of your job and it has no romantic implications. If your partner is still uncomfortable with the situation, it may be helpful to address the jealousy.

Distancing yourself from the circumstance can help you deliver the kiss with confidence. When you do this, pay particular attention to the actor’s motives. Are they trying to seduce a partner? Showcase their love? Then, communicate the character’s emotions, thoughts, and motives through the scene.

Depending on the stage or camera setup, you may not even be required to make lip contact with the other actor. Instead, you can do a “stage kiss,” where you cover the other actor’s lips with your thumb discreetly.

If you shy away from the kiss at first, kiss the other actor several times repeatedly until you can detach from the action. When practicing the kiss, make sure the other actor is on the same page. Read their body language and discuss anything you are uncomfortable with.

Ultimately, you are working together to deliver an authentic performance, and discussing the scene critically can help improve the acting and make you more comfortable. Say things like, “Man, that was weird. Can we try again so I don’t feel as nervous?”

No one wants to kiss someone with bad breath, even if it’s acting.

This way, your partner can make their movements based on your cues.

This way, your kiss looks genuine and real, rather than fake and forced.

Visualize the other person’s face, and picture yourself kissing their lips instead of the other actor’s. This may take some convincing, but with some imagination you can distract yourself until the scene is over.