This 10-week course combines character-driven vocal performance with practical audition skills for musical theater. In the first five weeks, we focus on acting the song and building your audition book. We will apply foundational acting techniques to the solo performance of a song, developing your vocal technique while bringing truth, specificity, and the life of the character to each piece. In the second five weeks, the class shifts to the audition process, guiding you through mock auditions, self-taping fundamentals, callbacks, and working with a director, in a supportive, hands-on environment. The course culminates in polished selections and a stronger, more confident audition presence. Come prepared with a song. Accompanist provided.

• Learn more about the instructor.
• Prerequisite: Open to all

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. 

• Learn more about the instructor. 
• Prerequisite: Open to all.

When the actor believes, we believe. The child’s natural instinct for play is the foundation of the actor’s process. Using the game of make believe to get into the “shoes” of the character, we begin to play with the possibilities that game invites in us. In order to believe I am the character, I must begin to learn all I can about who “I” am in the role: what surrounds and affects me, what I know, where I have been and where I am going; what I want, and what I do to get it or to make it happen. We use improvisation to awaken and explore creative impulses. Theatre games and exercises expand imagination, awareness, concentration, expressivity, and help build skills of communication, cooperation, and collaboration. Through text work designed for the young performer, we make strong, specific, meaningful connection to the language and circumstances of the play, bringing the author’s words to life. Through acting, young people gain compassionate insight about themselves and about the world around them; gain poise and confidence; develop problem-solving skills; and engage with peers and mentors in a joyful, collaborative process.

• Learn more about the instructor
• Prerequiste: Open to All (ages 9-13)

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.

• Learn more about the instructor.
• Prerequisite: Open to all.
• Offered in two 5-week parts. Sign up for either part individually, or both for a full 10 week experience! 

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).

• Learn more about the instructor.
• 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.
• Offered in two 5-week parts. Sign up for either part individually, or both for a full 10 week experience!