City Lit Theatre Company

What is the course about?

Following a successful audition, you will join the ensemble company to work on a production of Chekhov's Ivanov, in an English version by Tom Stoppard, directed by Robert Cavanah. You will build character and develop relationships and scenes within the world of the play and in the context of the director’s vision for the piece. The company is governed by professional values and you will be expected to work rigorously, meet all preparation deadlines and give your full commitment to every scheduled rehearsal. Please see below for Audition Guidance and Application form. Auditions will take place on Sunday 29th September and you should keep the whole day free. Rehearsals begin Monday evening, 28th October.
You will be required to take part in rehearsal and production photos which will be used for the purpose of marketing the show.
Rehearsals: Mondays & Fridays 18.30 - 21:30 & Sundays 10:30 - 16:30. You are required to be at each rehearsal on time and thus demonstrate professional discipline.
Production week is from Sunday 1 December. You must be available every evening Monday 2 Dec. to Friday 6 Dec. and all day Saturday 7 Dec., for tech and dress rehearsals and performances.

What will we cover?

We are keen to recruit a diverse group of actors. Essential attributes are enthusiasm, dedication and a strong sense of company. The rehearsal process will be creative, fast-paced, hard work and lots of fun! At audition, you will be required to perform a short speech from a contemporary play from memory. Please email audition@citylit.ac.uk with any questions.

The process from initial rehearsals to performance including:
- Familiarisation with text and director's interpretation of plot in terms of themes and performance style.
- Character-building
- Developing appropriate character voice, movement and relationships.
- Etiquette around technical and dress rehearsals and performances

Please note that acting classes by their very nature can involve exercises and the exploration of material that some students may find challenging.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Engage effectively with the process and structure, from first rehearsal to performance
- Develop character within this process, contributing to a coherent production
- Demonstrate the director’s concept through practical application of rehearsal work
- Engage appropriately and in a professional manner with the stage management team

If you have any additional queries please email the Drama Department

To apply:
• read this further information: Theatre Co Audition Advice
• download and complete an CLTC Application Form
• take a headshot (photo of yourself including face and shoulders)
• send your completed form and headshot to the Drama Department

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is an advanced level course, which requires that students are able to rehearse with full commitment and are able to conduct themselves appropriately in the rehearsal room and throughout the entire project. You will be required to meet deadlines, respect and work to meet directorial requirements, and work co-operatively with cast and crew at all times. Entry is by audition.
Your suitability and skill level will be assessed at audition. 100% attendance at all rehearsals is essential.
In order to get the most from the course you will be able to:
• Listen actively and communicate clearly
• Give and receive constructive feedback
• Read and analyse scripts to find meaning and clarity
• Take notes.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

You will learn through practical work. The director may utilise a range of rehearsal techniques that might include research projects, improvisation, text analysis, and hot seating. Work beyond the sessions will be necessary in terms of line-learning and script analysis; you will need to know your lines by the official 'off book' deadline. You will need to be free to rehearse and perform during production week (please see dates above).
HEALTH CHECK
You may be asked to participate in rigorous activity. Please consider whether you could do this, if you are in any doubt consult a medical practitioner.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

You will be required to purchase a play script.
Theatre Company has a modest production budget, and the creative team and director will use this to cover any production costs including props and costume. Students may choose to augment their costume and personal props with items from their own wardrobe and possessions. Should you choose to do this, please be aware that you do so at your own risk and City Lit cannot take responsibility for damage to anything that you supply. Your personal items should be clearly labelled with your name and you should take them home immediately after the final performance.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

You can audition for a role in the next Theatre Company production to develop your experience, work with a different director on a different type of play, and build your acting CV. You may be interested in City Lit's Accredited acting courses, or any of our wide range of drama, dance, media and speech courses. Please contact Drama for further advice (contact details in the panel top left).