Body Intelligence focuses on developing the physical and emotional intelligence of the actor. Class utilizes Allan Wayne Work exercises to build physical and mental stamina. These repetitive, circular exercises condition the muscles and break up fascial adhesions while unveiling emotional availability, eroding habitual tension and preventing injury. There are guided creative movement explorations, ensemble, partner and solo work that allow the actor to fully experience moving from their body’s impulses as opposed to being ‘in their head’ to make choices. The focus on embodiment work leads the actor to greater emotional access and safety. Class references concepts from Alexander Technique, Fitzmaurice vocal technique, integral anatomy, Lucid Body, meditation and modern dance.

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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.

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.

Many of the greatest works in the theater and film take place in the American South, from the Carolinas to Georgia to Louisiana. While each area has a distinct culture and dialect, it is an important skill for most actors to be able to confidently inhabit at least one particular accent, and be able to modify from there according to the needs of the story being told. This workshop will approach accents of the American South by focusing in detail on one specific accent, and then exploring varieties found in the neighboring regions.

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• Registration 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. 

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• Required reading: A Challenge for the Actor by Uta Hagen.
• Recommended viewing: Uta Hagen's Acting Class documentary. 
• Prerequisite: Open to all.

This class for teenagers, ages 14-17, builds on the basics of the “Game of Make Believe” introduced in Acting for Young People, starting from improvisations and moving into work on scenes. You will discover how to use yourself, your experiences and imagination to create a character in a play or story. Your belief and whole-hearted commitment to the circumstances of the play make it real for the audience. In an atmosphere of creative play and self-discovery, you will come to understand and experience the level of preparation and discipline you will need to try for a place in the professional theater. We will learn how to prepare for auditions, do monologues, improvisations. We will prepare scenes and present them to our guests in the last class! Please bring a monologue to your first class.

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• Prerequisite: Open to All (ages 14-17)

Held online via Zoom: This is an opportunity for beginning film actors with some film experience to learn the steps needed to prepare to work on a professional film set before the director calls, “Action!” and for the working actor with film experience to stretch, risk, and own their performance at an advanced level after the director calls, “Action!” Let’s integrate your imagination, voice, body, and acting techniques to allow your most truthful work to be seen by the intimate eye of the camera lens. We will practice the art of bringing all your acting skills together, with vulnerability, to be present on film. We will incorporate self-filming as an integral component of this course. Actors will experience creating work through the practice of filming themselves, in class and at home. Let’s find freedom, joy, and presence in the technical world of film. Expected rehearsal time outside of class: 3+ hours/week.

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• New Students must: schedule a Zoom meeting with Lisa Pelikan prior to your first day of class. Email her at lpelikan@hbstudio.org.
• Prerequisite: Open to Acting Level 2 and up. New to HB? Submit online for level placement. 

How does one start writing a play? From inspiration to scene work, this 5 week intensive utilizes sensory and visualization exercises to inspire the beginning playwright toward crafting a unique story for the stage.

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• Prerequisite: Open to all.