Classes
Our beginning acting foundations sequence consists of three classes, each of eight or ten weeks duration. Acting I, II, III.
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A student can take one, two or all three classes in a sequence throughout the year. We offer these classes in a rotation between autumn, winter, spring and summer quarters so you can study at your own pace.
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By the end of this three class sequence, we expect our actors to be able to work in the performance space with authenticity, honesty and creativity. You will understand how to approach scene work and dramatic text with confidence and have two working monologues for auditions.​
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Our advanced classes allow the actor to explore the creation of a complete role, contribute to ensemble theatre work and adapt your craft to the demands of the camera for film and TV.​ Acting IV, V, VI.
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Master classes, one-day workshops and seminars are taught by Andrew Tsao and scheduled throughout the year. These classes are by invitation and audition only, but all registered students may attend as observers. These events are meant to bring advanced actors and entry level actors together in a room with a master teacher to approach specific acting challenges with demonstrations, Q and A and creative discussion.
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Students may audition into upper level classes at The Studio on a case-by-case basis.
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Acting Foundations 1,2 and 3
Our teaching philosophy is inspired by the teachings of Konstantin Stanislavki, whose "system" has been successfully adopted by thousands upon thousands of actors over the past one hundred plus years.
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We also use the legendary Uta Hagen's work to help the actor distill their technique down to manageable tasks that lead towards "living" the role rather than "performing" it.​
Advanced Acting 4, 5 and 6
Deepening your craft, invention, improvisation, text analysis, style, ensemble work, screen acting and solo work are covered in this sequence of classes.
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These classes are for students who have shown mastery of the foundations sequence and intend to pursue professional work.
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Master classes
Andrew Tsao teaches high-level classes in scene work, screen acting, Shakespeare and advanced auditioning techniques.
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These classes are offered as workshops for upper level actors over one or two days throughout the year.
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Master classes are for advanced actors, however entry level actors are invited and welcome to attend as observers.
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Essential reading
This Jean Benedetti complete translation is accurate, thorough and presents Stanislavki's technique in clear, concise language.​​ The only authoritative text available.
In addition to this, we recommend Hagen's follow-up: A Challenge for the Actor. The tools presented in these texts are a core part of our curriculum.