New Class Descriptions - 9-3-11
Class Description
Acting for TV & Film:
Students learn the art of acting in the television and film environment. Starting with scenes/scripts from popular television show and feature films, students learn the pace, the staging, and what is required for each of the different mediums. Students learn to take their “beats”, camera angles and direction and physical requirements for each. Both require and enhance reading and reading comprehension skills as well as memorization and confidence.
Acting & Auditioning Techniques:
An audition consists of about 4 minutes no matter if it’s an audition to get agency representation or when you are on an actual casting call. You have that amount of time to grab their attention and knock the material out of the park. The talent needs to understand what to do on an audition, what to wear, where to focus, how to deliver the material, and most importantly what not to do. The talent will run though commercials, monologues, mock interviews and more.
Fundamentals of Acting
A must do for every actor! The following is covered in this class:
Basic elements of acting, stage terms, stage direction, (SL, Exiting, etc), taking direction, working as a team on stage, Theatre Games – make it fun, Begin work on Who? Theatre games and scenes emphasizing relations (Who). What they need in the scene, stakes (scenes emphasizing states), Moment Before, Environment, Breaking down a scene, History/Character Work, Fourth Wall, Putting the Basics to Work, Review! Fix, Refine and Celebrate!
Improv: (Improvisation)
Improv is the practice of acting, singing, talking and reacting, of making and creating, in the moment and in response to the stimulus of one's immediate environment and inner feelings. It’s thinking out loud and “on the spot” or “off the cuff” Spontaneous comebacks are essential for the actor/performer in auditions and meetings with agencies, agents, casting directors, producers and film directors. Some notable and genius improvisation talent – Jim Carrey, Robin Williams, Saturday Night Live casts and more.
Into to Scene/Writing for TV & Film:
Students are given the opportunity to write scene(s) with classmates or individually. They get to perform the scene with fellow classmates/actors in the classroom environment. Then they get to fix, refine and celebrate their work!
Master Class Program:
Two methods offered, Meisner and Method. You must be invited in by the instructor to attend these workshops. The class contains serious actors (age is not a limiting factor) who want to be pushed to the utmost level of acting. Students need to have impeccable attendance, be on top of their material, know their lines, and be prepared for class. These two classes are conducted by industry professionals (Jeff Celentano, film director and Randall England, actor, writer, producer). These are certainly workshops to aspire to.
Monologue:
Actors will learn to speak by addressing their thoughts out loud to an audience other cast members. A monologue class is the ultimate training in public speaking. This also equates to an oral book report at school, a sales presentation or a closing argument.
Modeling/Runway/Image:
There are classes for small children and teens:
The focus is on self-esteem, confidence, poise and more. The students walk the runway, work on their posture and their runway “walk”. The teen class focuses on “what not to wear”, what’s appropriate clothing for your body time, hair, hairstyles, makeup, exercise, nutrition and more. Class periodically does “mini” photo shoots and participants are invited to bring in clothing, costumes, and outfits for this impromptu shoot. Photos are just for class use only and cannot be used or mistaken for professional photos.
On Camera Workshops:
The camera is a vital tool in acting and performing. In addition to having to learn their “lines”, the talent will have to learn to perform with the camera capturing their performances. The talent will learn such terminology and functions such as: Camera right, camera left, banana shot, cheat the scene, close up, cover shots, crane shot, cue, cutaway, dress the set, long shots, matching actions, inserts, and more.
Scene Study:
The student is given a particular scene from a movie, television show or a play. They are paired with a classmate(s) and run the lines during a brief break in the class. The instructor then has them perform the scene in front of their classmates. The teacher will critique the read and give constructive advice. The students learn, through reading comprehension the mechanics of their scene as to the Who, What, Where, When and Why.
Voice and Diction/Dialects: (Essential)
The actor’s voice is a diverse and powerful instrument and must be trained through classes to express a wider range of emotion, character and life. Voices must resonate without damaging the vocal chords. They must be clear and concise and versatile. A voice and diction class will help not only actors but also singers, musicians, debaters and public speakers. Voice classes can start as early as age 10. It can be picked up at any stage of life. This is a definite must have on your acting resume. A role may require an accent/dialect, maybe from the south, or England, Italy or any place on earth. Nailing the appropriate dialect can be a hit or miss in landing a role.
Vocal Training – Advanced (Invite only)
Advanced Vocal Class for the serious vocalists who truly want to move to the next level of singing. Heavy focus on the structure of the vocal chords, the mechanics, exercises to not injure the voice, head & chest focus, developing the ear and more. This class covers all areas of singing – from opera to pop/rock. You must be evaluated before participating in this class.
Vocal Training (Intro) and Singing:
Focus on running scales, breathing exercise, and voicercize songs. Developed by Beverly Bremers (a hit recording artist), the students will learn to match pitch and tune their ear. Students are invited to bring along their favorite karaoke CD and will work on their songs in class.
