Theatre: Intro to Acting

Exercises to increase self-awareness and heighten perceptions of human behavior. Basics of script analysis and development of vocal and physical skills through practice and performance.

Non-theatre majors and minors only

In this course, we will focus on increasing students’ awareness of self and exploring mediums of communication through movement, improv, breathwork, monologue and scene study. Students will be asked to engage physically and intellectually in both technical exercises and discernment of text in the pursuit of personal and foundational understanding of craft. The course is designed to emphasize ensemble building and dedicated collaboration through risk-taking and creative problem solving. We will be using excerpts from the following texts: An Actor Prepares and Building A Character by Constantin Stanislavski The Art of Acting by Stella Adler On Acting by Sanford Meisner & Dennis Longwell Respect for Acting by Uta Hagen These excerpts will be available on Brightspace unless otherwise noted.

This class will be treated as an acting laboratory and students should be prepared to participate in physical exercises, discussions and group-building exercises as well as learning to give fellow classmates constructive feedback on class work.

Grades will be based heavily on attendance and in-class participation. Any preparation that will help the student with their in-class work is included in the evaluation. This includes but is not limited to:memorization, physical presence, appropriate clothing, outside rehearsal, enthusiastic participation, responses, readings and production analysis.