When we were children, we all had a natural acting ability called pretending. Far from just a silly game, we created entire worlds and believed in them completely. The best actors are nothing more than great pretenders. Yet it takes a lot of courage to reach back, strip away the layers of self-protection, and simply pretend. That's where I come in.

My Scene Study Class is designed to hone the skills of the professional actor by re-activating the natural acting talent that often lies dormant, and to help build my students into confident actors.

Some classes are focused on one aspect of acting, such as senses or imagination; others are a mixture of scene work, improvs, monologues, and cold readings.

Classes are three hours long, once a week, and include exercises to get our bodies and minds working, discussions on the art and business of acting, and intensive scene study and improvisation.

All students participate in every class!

In-class exercises include:

1. ‣ Scene Study
   

In scene study, we analyze a scene for character, emotion, and conflict. To help the actor listen and react honestly, we define a character’s “want”; find real moments, emotions, and transitions; use sensory work, physicality, and the “where” of the scene; and make strong, specific choices. Scene work is intensive and fun. We sometimes take several weeks on a single scene.

1. ‣ Monologues
   

It's useful for an actor to have a prepared monologue, much like a singer has a song ready for any situation. A good monologue shows off your talent while improving your ability to stay focused. In terms of preparation, monologues are treated like scenes.

1. ‣ Improvisation
   

Improvs are a fun, exciting way to keep actors focused, connected, and on their toes. Some improvs are spur-of-the-moment, while others are based on brief preparation. Improvs are a wonderful way to improve listening and reacting, the two most vital acting skills. I also use improvs to flesh out a scene or monologue.