This unique class is the next development in the process of creating an “actable” script as well as developing skills and sensitivities to the process of acting and the needs actors have to work with the director in bringing the script to life. Through an extended process of intense acting exercises, and text-actionable work the student will be developing their scripts to a point of readying them for the actor as well as strengthening the telling of their story through the emotionality, character development, motivations and obstacles of their characters. Students will come to understand – through personal experience – the demands a script must meet in order to be a “map” which an actor can follow to bring their character along a journey which tells the story intended by the writer.
Through physical and emotional work in class, along with exploration of text analysis and application of dramatic approach the student will enter the process of acting as it serves them both as filmmakers and artists.
Lastly, the class will focus on the secrets of becoming an “actor whisperer”…. exploring techniques, methods and manners of approaching actors with respect for their creative input while drawing the performance necessary from them to achieve the telling of the story in a manner desired by the director and laid out by the script.
The objective of this course is for the student to find a sense of the expression and freedom inherent in the strong development of an actable script, a sensitivity and appreciation of the art of acting and the communicative skills and empathy necessary to collaborate with the talents of actors.
This is a class which will require work of the student both in and out of the classroom. The work requires a high level of dedication, interest and the ability to be self-motivated. The creative process of writing and acting can often times lead one toward feeling vulnerable or even ridiculous. It is important that students are willing to explore areas that might make them uncomfortable in other environments, and who understand that they are also responsible for the creation of a “safe space” for themselves and their fellow actors to play and explore. Taking personal responsibility to foster an environment of creative possibility allows the class to more quickly become cohesive and work together as a “company” which will be vital to the continuation of the year’s study as team work will be required in the actual production of each student’s final project. In order to facilitate this it is imperative that students arrive in class on time physically, mentally and emotionally prepared to work. All resources will be needed for this demanding work. Lastly, it is important that the student approach the work with a committed yet playful attitude. Inspiration comes to the mind at play.
In class analysis, text-work, writing assignments, occasional reading assignments; informal lecture and class discussion; numerous individual and group exercises.