Acting, when done well, is the pure expression of human emotion and spirit through text. To do so effectively, one must have adequate training. The actor’s voice, body, mind, and spirit are the tools of the trade and in this course; we will work to hone each one. Students will develop an understanding of the fundamentals of performance using their body, voice, and imagination as instruments for creating drama, conflict, action, and story. Extensive out-of-class preparation of specific exercises, as well as rehearsals with scene partners, will constitute the bulk of expected work. In addition, students will read several plays throughout the term, as well as weekly readings on drama theory.
Expectations: The primary expectation in this class is active engagement and investment into whatever exercise or activity is being attempted. That means bringing just as much attention and curiosity to the work of others as to your own. The work basically includes:
1) Warming up – we do this almost every class.
2) Sense Memory – three or four different exercises.
3) Objective/Obstacle – prepared improvisation.
4) Open scenes – fun w/choosing & playing actions.
5) Character Interviews – this will involve research.
6) Scene Work – requires 2-6 hours outside class rehearsal per week.
7) Discussion & written reactions to plays and the material provided.
8) Various improvisations and games throughout.
Learning Outcomes:
•Exploration and challenge of physical, vocal, intellectual, and imaginative capacities.
•Fundamental experiential understanding of Action on stage.
•Understanding the principals of collaboration.
•Develop a sense of rehearsal technique and how to foster its process.
Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Corequisites: Completion of Dance or Drama lab assignment.
Course Level: 2000-level
Credits: 4
T/F 10:30AM - 12:20PM (Full-term)
Maximum Enrollment: 16
Course Frequency: Every Term
Categories: 2000 , All courses , Drama , Four Credit , Fully In-Person , Updates
Tags: acting , Dramatic Literature , ensemble , Games , improvisation , performance , scene study , scene work , theater , theatre