Introduction to Acting

The following learning targets represent the major concepts studied and assessed in this course. 

Semester 

Establishing a Positive Performance Space 

• Develop and practice exercises in relaxation, focus, trust, and playfulness 
• Develop and practice the art of being a positive audience member 
• Develop and practice the art of tactful criticism 

Audition Workshop 

• Define and identify types of auditions 
• Identify and practice the process of preparing an audition 

Develop Movement for the Actor 

• Develop and perform pantomime skills 
• Develop and perform movement for a character 
• Identify types of stages, stage areas, body positions, and principles of movement 
• Analyze stage composition 
• Develop, perform, and critique blocking for a scene 
• Critique fellow performers and offer suggestions to improve their piece. 

Develop Vocal Qualities for the Actor 

• Identify and develop an actor’s vocal tools 
• Develop and perform character voices 
• Develop, perform, and critique a devised performance with a focus on vocal qualities 
• Critique fellow performers and offer suggestions to improve their piece. 

Develop Scripted Performances 

• Read and analyze scripts for performance 
• Develop a character history for a scripted performance 
• Develop, perform, and critique a monologue