CLARTTH0010 - Act One: Introduction to Acting Workshop
Steal the scene in this engaging acting workshop led by professional actress, singer, director and artist-teacher Debra Dickinson. Learn the fundamental principles of scene study—a cornerstone of acting technique—in an encouraging environment. The class incorporates a series of craft and technical presentations, discussions, and breakout groups with interactive exercises. Practice brief monologues with your classmates, read aloud in small groups and to the class, discuss and analyze scenes, select props, and more. The course culminates in a short performance to a supportive audience of friends and family. Whether you’re returning to a former love of acting, brushing up on your acting skills, expanding your confidence and communication, or stepping onto the stage for the first time, join us for this dynamic new course!
Note: Optional rehearsal(s) may be scheduled outside of class time at the instructor’s discretion.
You may also be interested in Debra Dickinson’s other in-person/on-campus course, Broadway Showstoppers, Tuesdays, Feb. 22–April 11, 2024, and prerecorded/on-demand course, Broadway Pulitzer Prize Winners.
Course Details
Debra Dickinson, M.A., was the artist-teacher of opera studies for acting and movement at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music for nearly three decades, directing 25 productions for the Department of Opera Studies. She was a professional singer and actress in New York for 15 years before starting her career as a director. She performed with Richard Burton on Broadway in “Camelot” and as Guenevere opposite Richard Harris in the subsequent national tour. Ms. Dickinson has taught master classes for Houston Grand Opera and Houston Ebony Opera, served as the acting instructor for Glimmerglass Festival, Brevard Opera and Chautauqua Opera, and was the recipient of Shelfer Eminent Scholar Chair in Music Theatre at Florida State University. Ms. Dickinson holds a B.S. from Northwestern University and a M.A. from Hunter College in New York City.
On Campus
This course will be delivered on campus / in person. Parking and room information will be sent prior to the class start date.
- Acting 101: Terminology, preparations and more
- Understanding scene study
- Character analysis and exploration
- Partner/group dynamics
- Blocking
- Rehearsal techniques
- Script-reading exercises
- Class performance
Beginning actors or those seeking a refresher are welcome. Optional rehearsal(s) may be scheduled outside of class time at the instructor’s discretion.