Fundamentals of Acting
Winter 2006-07

Introduction to the skills necessary for performing on stage. This course is an exploration of the fundamental techniques necessary for beginning scene and monologue study in modern and contemporary realism. Through physical and vocal exercises, text and character analysis, and scene studies, the student is introduced to the process of acting preparation and performance. Excellent course for nonmajors seeking an introduction to the art of acting.

Course objectives:

Overall, to explore and practice the fundamental skills of stage acting.

1. To learn the basic philosophies of some of the most influential acting teachers in contemporary Euro-American traditions.
2. To practice and demonstrate playing an objective while acting in a scene and a monologue.
3. To learn, through discussion as well as experience, basic stage terminology and orientation.
4. To participate in a learning/performance ensemble consisting of your class, learning from and with your classmates.
5. To learn and practice basic textual analysis as actors apply it to dramatic works.
6. To learn and practice basic movement and voice exercises in order to break habits of everyday moving and speaking.