- Lectures will introduce advanced vocabulary for script analysis and for the theoretical aspects of stage acting.
- In the classroom/studio, students will work on practical exercises in character development. Students will work individually as well as in small and large groups in the preparation and performance of a series of short acting projects.
Students will explore advanced internal and external resources available to the actor for the effective creation of character. They will learn specific techniques for script analysis and study specific vocabulary appropriate to speech, movement and acting.
- Script analysis
- interpreting the imagery in the text
- finding the event structure
- Speaking the text
- understanding the words
- discovering motivation
- shaping long speeches by finding beats and transitions
- developing strategies for memorizing the text
- Stage terminology
- stage directions
- stage areas
- stage movement
Upon completion of this course, the successful student should be able to
- develop a knowledge of internal and external resources available and necessary for the effective creation of a character, including script analysis techniques;
- learn and apply appropriate advanced terminology and vocabulary of acting for the stage;
- become familiar with elements of specific historical and contemporary acting styles;
- learn and apply advanced resources to the development and effective presentation of character.
Attendance (10%)
Due to the fact that this is a studio course, full attendance and regular punctuality is mandatory. Please see the individual instructor’s outline for details on late and absence penalties.
Written Journal (10%)
Students are expected to keep a journal for this course. Student reflections on class material, projects and exercises will be recorded throughout the semester.
Attitude/Participation/Progress (10%)
Students are expected to approach their work in a mature and professional manner. Promptness, out-of-class preparation, and consideration of others will be reflected in this mark.
Students are expected to participate fully in all aspects of the work, not only as solo and/or ensemble performers but also as constructively critical audience members whose individual observations and opinions are valuable. Students will be assessed on an ongoing basis according to level of commitment and dedication to the process of class work and practical application of techniques.
Presented Work Assignments (45%)
Students will be assessed on their individual progress on a series of prepared improvisations, monologues, small and large group exercises and major performance projects. The weighting and number of Presented Work Assignments will be determined by the individual instructor as guided by the following sample outline:
- Scene 1 5%
- Scene 2 5%
- Scene 3 10%
- Scene 4 10%
- Final Scene 15% (including 5% on rehearsal progress and 10% on performance)
Additional Written Work (15%)
- Students will submit two play reviews at 5% each.
- Students will submit a Final Scene Scriptbook for 5%.
Quiz (10%)
The quiz will be based on text readings, lecture notes and handouts.
A list of recommended textbooks and materials is provided on the Instructor’s course Outline, which is available to students at the beginning of each semester. Example:
Harrop, John and Epstein, Sabin R., Acting With Style, Allyn & Bacon (most recent re-print).