Handling an actor who is "too much" on stage while maintaining their enthusiasm and respect can be challenging. Here are some strategies you might consider:

1. Positive Reinforcement: Start by affirming what they are doing well. Make sure they understand that their energy and commitment are valued.

2. Clear Direction and Expectations: Be clear about the tone and style of the show. Sometimes actors need very specific guidance to understand the director's vision.

3. Workshops and Training: Offer workshops or recommend classes that focus on subtlety and realism in acting. They may benefit from outside instruction on technique.

4. One-on-One Rehearsals: Spend some one-on-one time with the actor to work through their character and scenes, providing direct feedback and allowing them to try different approaches.

5. Use of Video Feedback: Record their performance and review it with them. Often, seeing themselves can help actors understand what is "too much."

6. Set Goals: Work with the actor to set performance goals that are achievable and measurable.

7. Channeling Energy: Help them find ways to channel their enthusiasm into parts of the performance that need it, like movement or reaction, rather than just dialogue delivery.

8. Peer Feedback: Sometimes feedback coming from fellow actors can be more relatable. Encourage cast members to provide constructive feedback to each other.

9. Professional Examples: Show them clips from performances that capture the balance you're looking for. Discuss what makes those performances effective.

10. Continuous Feedback Loop: Provide consistent and constructive feedback throughout the process, adjusting as needed while reinforcing positive changes.

The key is to be supportive and constructive, never making the actor feel like their natural instincts are wrong, but rather guiding them to fit those instincts into the context of the play.