For actors who want to improve their acting skills through improvisation, this class amplifies the technique work in Level 1 and supports the work with scenes in Levels 2 and 3. The first session will be dedicated to the choices you need to make to structure a viable improvisation, with emphasis placed on circumstances, relationships, tension, and subtext. In the following sessions, you will improvise scenes and explore improvisation through games and exercises. There is no work outside of class. Through this inventive process, you develop immediacy, creativity and partnering skills, and hone your instincts for making productive dramatic choices. Actors of all levels are welcome.

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• Prerequisite: Open to All

This Level 1 acting class provides an introduction to the technique of working truthfully in front of the camera. Students will explore the fundamental elements of a grounded technique as they practice the craft of acting while the camera rolls. Students will develop their listening skills as they challenge themselves to become more spontaneous, present and specific in their explorations of character. Actors will use exercises and text from tv/film/theater to stretch themselves outside of their comfort zones in a safe, nurturing and fun environment. Actors in this class will learn preparation and memorization techniques, and be asked to learn through collaboration with their classmates. Actors will receive video files of the on-camera footage from the scenes they bring into class. This class is open to all levels and will be tailored to each individual's ability as they work in front of the camera. You will receive video files of your on-camera footage at no extra charge, included within the cost of the class.

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• Prerequisite: Open to All

An introduction to the process of preparing and rehearsing a scripted text. Using Uta Hagen’s six steps as a guide, you will work to find authentic inner connection to the character’s details and circumstances and to choose truthful, effective and lively actions. A commitment to rehearse with partners outside of class is required.

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• Prerequisite: Open to all; English proficiency is required.

This course applies the skills developed in Acting 1 and 2 to musical performance—to the presentation and articulation of a song, as it arises from the scene and from the life of the character. You will work to balance correct vocal technique and sound production with the effort to bring truth and specificity, both to the song and to the role. Class material addressed may include solo performance, duet, or group scenes and is appropriate for both the professional and aspiring singing actor in whatever genre you may choose to focus your efforts (musical theatre, opera, concert/cabaret). Accompanist provided. Come prepared with a song (memorized and with sheet music properly prepared and in a binder for use by the accompanist).

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• Recommended reading: A Challenge for the Actor by Uta Hagen
• Prerequisite: Open to Singing Level 2 and up. New to HB? Submit online for level placement.

The Fundamentals of an HB acting technique: Here, you develop the ability to respond truthfully, dynamically, and vividly with fellow actors and the ability to access sensory elements. You tap into the power of imagination and the reservoir of memory. You gain a working understanding of the terms: previous circumstances, destination, inner and outer objects, intentions, obstacles, and conflicts. You develop an awareness of the power, function, and dynamics of “place”, and learn to be in a state of discovery, which leads to actions. You develop tools of research and observation and you get comfortable improvising. You begin to measure yourself against professional standards and develop habits of discipline and a strong work ethic. Do understand that these practices take time to master. It takes about a year (20-30 weeks) at this level to really own the skills addressed. Further scene study or performance work will then take root in this fertile ground. 

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• Prerequisite: Open to all

This beginner-friendly course introduces actors to the craft and realities of acting for film and television while helping adapt theater techniques for the camera. Through scene study, improvisation, script analysis, movement work, and on-camera exercises, you will develop tools for creating authentic, grounded performances under the technical demands of production. You will explore: on-camera presence and stillness; eyeline and framing; behavioral truth and listening; subtext and objective; continuity and blocking; taking direction and adjusting quickly; and working truthfully within technical constraints. The course also introduces you to the rhythm and workflow of a professional set environment while incorporating techniques inspired by Uta Hagen, Michael Chekhov, Lucid Body, and Feldenkrais awareness work. Acting is doing — not playing emotion. Throughout the session, you will work on scenes that culminate in the final 2–3 weeks of the term, during which you will have the opportunity to shoot at least two scenes in a simulated on-set environment while applying the techniques explored throughout the course, for you to consider using in your reel. You will receive video files of your on-camera footage at no extra charge, included within the cost of the class.

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• Prerequisite: Prior (or simultaneous) enrollment in an Acting Technique class is recommended

Held online via Zoom: This class is oriented to helping the trained actor develop a set of tools for building a character. Acting is doing. The major question is: “What do I DO to get what I want?” The structure of this class is based on Uta Hagen’s brilliant Physical Destination Exercise. The actor will discover the profound depth of the Destination Exercise and will learn how it can provide the actor with the necessary foundation for living truthfully under the given circumstances on stage or in front of a camera. You will learn through the application and exploration of the Destination Exercise, and possibly the other exercises, how to use these methods towards finding the emotional core of the character and most importantly how to play moment to moment. We will start by working individually on Uta Hagen’s Destination exercise to establish the fundamental understanding of this base exercise. (Actors that have studied the Hagen exercises before can combine exercises.) In the following sessions, we will work on the Destination Exercise set in the context of an assigned character of a scene. You will be asked to re-work this exercise taking in consideration all the text analysis that will take place in class. The destination exercise will become our tool to embody not only our character but also all the text analysis that will happen during class. Finally, we will move into scene work and possibly applying Double Destinations (guided paired improvisations using Hagen’s exercises) in the context of the assigned scenes. Our final purpose is to build a bridge between the acquired technique and the scene work. Students will be assigned specific scenes and characters as well as the Destination exercise.  Students must meet for rehearsal via zoom outside of class at least once before bringing work to class (preferably a minimum of two rehearsals).

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• Required Reading: 
  • A Challenege for the Actor by Uta Hagen
  • The play from which your scene is assigned
• Prerequisite: For actors who are actively pursuing work or have some prior acting training or experience

In Scene Study 2, you will apply the lessons of Acting 1 and 2 to the preparation, rehearsal, and presentation of scenes, focusing on contemporary realist plays (mid-20th century to present). Scenes are presented in class for critique, then reworked to explore and apply feedback. Technique exercises may be introduced diagnostically to address problems as they arise.

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• Prerequisite: Open to Acting Level 2 and up. New to HB? Submit online for level placement