Improvisational acting, often shortened to "improv", can be described in its simplest terms as acting without a script. Many actors and non-actors enjoy this highly creative and fun activity. Actors use improv exercises to help develop characterization, as a tool to explore character relationships within a script, as a means to keep their acting skills sharp and be able to think on their feet, and of course as an art form in itself.  There are many famous improv companies all over the countr

Do you have a child who loves to "playact"? Or perhaps have a child who is shy and reserved? Maybe you know a child who fits either description, or maybe you're a teacher with children like this in your class? Have you wondered how you can engage a child through theater? Why Theater? Studying theater, either through viewing performances or by playing acting games, offers many benefits in cognitive, intellectual, and behavioral development. According to theater educator, Gai Jones, “Theat

Now that vaccinations are starting to roll out, we’re all starting to believe live theater really will return! And while it may be a while before things are totally back to normal, that makes these next few months a perfect opportunity to get yourself as well-prepared as possible for when auditions and productions resume.  We may have spent our downtime mostly binge-watching The Great British Baking Show or learning to knit, but many of us also used the extra free time to tackle house pro

You've thought about it. dreamt about it, researched your options, weighed the pros and cons...and now you're ready to do it: take the plunge and invest in your growth as an actor with formal training. Whether it's a university course, online group seminar, or private one-on-one sessions with an acting coach, here is a guide to a few things you can do to be sure to get the most out of your acting training. 1. Be Prepared  While many may believe that successful actors are simply gifted wi

Performing a monologue is much different from acting as part of an ensemble! Make sure you're ahead of the pack with these tips from New York City actor and teaching artist Jasmine B...   We all want to be that actor that everyone wants to work with. I’ve been in quite a few ensembles (one I’ve had the pleasure of being in for four years!) and have found some keys to working well with others and producing quality work. Here are a few simple ways to improve your ensemble acting an

No one becomes a great actor without studying for their masters. While different acting techniques work for different people, there are some commonalities that can be found in the best of the best.  By watching and studying 8 classic films, you can improve your own five most important classical acting techniques.  Whether you're just starting out or you've been performing for years, these movies will help you to develop and hone your craft. So put on your thinking cap and get ready to

I’ve said it once and I will say it again, we are all actors by nature! Anyone can be an actor if given the proper tools and training.  There are ways to become a stronger stage actor and as performers we should always be learning and growing. When speaking to new actors, I often quote Michael Shurtleff, the author of my favorite acting text, “Audition”. He once said, “Use what you know. Don't worry about what you don't know.”  This couldn’t be more true! Acting is reacting and

The best actors make it look easy: they deliver their performances so confidently, with tremendous commitment and believability. To be successful as performers, actors need to develop certain skills. Natural talent helps, but the most successful actors work on honing their craft. In spite of the work actors do to prepare, it seems as though the confidence part comes naturally. Many famous actors admit that they still feel nervous before a performance or when the cameras are rolling: yet, the

As vaccinations start to roll out, we're finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. But, it’s still going to be a long time before live theater returns fully. Holding a virtual performance may feel like a sad substitution – no applause or audience response, no interaction with fellow cast members, no fun backstage rituals -  but it’s what we’ve got for now. At least it gives us a way to continue honing our craft and expressing ourselves, and there are lots of possibilities.  S

Are you wondering how to remember lines for a play? Wondering what the best techniques are make sure you're off book when the time comes? Memorization can be tricky business.  When it comes to acting, memorizing lines is a necessary evil. Having your lines down quickly and early on in the rehearsal process is helpful not only for you, but also for everyone around you. The sooner your lines are memorized, the sooner the real work can take place.  In order to really connect with the