Course Work
ACTING
The process of acting is explored through a range of techniques that enable each individual talent to be nurtured encouraged and advanced. These classes include exercises in stagecraft and character study leading to a practical application of skills and the ability to deliver believable, densely-textured and emotionally rich performances.
ACTOR AND TEXT
An analysis of cultural and historic context, construction, style and genre within a range of dramatic texts provides the students with an opportunity to identify the challenges of various stylistic demands.
IMPROVISATION
This sequence of practical classes is designed to enhance the development of individual creativity, imagination, spontaneity, responsiveness, confidence and flair.
MOVEMENT
These classes explore the student's resources for controlled, free and expressive movement. The classes also require each student to employ their physical resources in effective communication within dramatic context. Creating a character from a physical base with reference to postural shaping, rhythm, weight use, personal space, and physical traits is explored.
VOICE
The classes aim to establish the basic foundations of vocal technique for acting by encouraging the practice of correct body and breath usage, and freeing the body from unnecessary and inhibiting habitual tensions. Sustainable vocal technique for performance of complex text, emotional extremes and adapting vocally to a variety of venues and acoustics forms an integral part of these classes.
ACTING FOR CAMERA/TELEVISION TECHNIQUE
Working in a studio or on location will provide the experience of preparing and performing a role for the camera. The process is conducted under professional conditions and observes current industrial practice.
RADIO TECHNIQUE
Rehearsal and recording of selected dramatic material creates an opportunity for students to gain practical knowledge and an understanding of the technical demands of radio and voice-over work.
PERFORMANCE PROJECTS
Conducted by professional directors, these form a series of intensive rehearsals culminating in workshop presentations of abridged versions of a variety of plays. The aim is to integrate all acquired skills within the context of performance of plays of various periods and genre.
SINGING
Music and Singing are approached from the perspective of the needs of the actor. Emphasis is placed on effective presentation in performance through a clear understanding of meaning, musical form and style.
SPEECH
These classes involve the practical examination of the theory and physiology of sounds and pronunciation in language.
SIGHT READING
An essential resource for the modern actor, these classes develop the student's ability to read on sight a variety of literary and dramatic material.
MONOLOGUE PRESENTATION
This is a sequence of practical classes in which the students pre-selected monologues beginning with Classical Greek text and moving chronologically forward, ultimately cover a variety of genres and styles.
VERSE
Demands of verse speaking are explored in a series of practical classes. The aim is to develop awareness of the use and possibilities of language through the study of a variety of forms and styles.
DANCE
This is a sequence of practical classes which provides students with the opportunity to acquire technical and expressive dance skills and to respond to choreographic demands with speed and professionalism. There is particular emphasis on acting through dance.
STAGE COMBAT
Classes introduce the students to the techniques of basic armed and unarmed combat.
ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE
Students are guided to discover their own habitual use and develop an informed sensory and kinesthetic awareness. Particular attention is paid to the effects of undue tension on the vocal process.
AUDITION TECHNIQUE
Students are guided in selection and preparation of audition pieces suitable for professional auditions. Appropriate presentation of self as an actor to prospective employers in industrial circumstances is explored.
ASSESSMENT
Assessments take place at varying points throughout the course. These assessments explore performance strengths and weaknesses as well as advising on areas of future development.
