Screen acting: beginners

What is the course about?

Working under the invaluable guidance of a highly experienced screen actor, you will gain a solid introduction to working practically in front of the camera. The focus is on combining the technical discipline needed for screen work with simple script and character work. You will explore practical exercises and work towards a short on screen performance. Your work will be filmed during the session, and you will be able to examine your progress during playback. You will work both singularly and with other actors, and begin to develop skills in taking direction. The course will give students a practical understanding of what screen acting entails. The final footage will not be available to download, but is for educational review purposes to support your development.
Watch student testimonials: here.

What will we cover?

Technical considerations of the camera:
*Hitting marks
*Eye lines
*Physical continuity
*Scene work and basic script analysis
*Working effectively with the director and fellow actors.

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...

*Adhere to some of the technical requirements for acting on screen
*Maintain focus and continuity
*Work effectively with the director and fellow actors
*Approach a script and assess the fundamental elements needed to develop the character/scene on film
*Perform a short scene truthfully to camera.

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

All are welcome. This is a beginners course. To get the most from the class you will have already taken at least one general beginners acting class or a Stanislavski beginners course.
In order to get the most from the course you will be able to:
• Listen and respond to instructions and feedback.
• Communicate clearly in discussion and drama practice.
• Read and respond to a variety of text.
• Give and receive constructive feedback.
• Take notes.
• Work within groups and pairs safely.

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

In pairs, individually and small groups.
Your recordings may be made available via Google Classroom for your review. The footage is for training and assessment purposes only and recordings will not be shared at the end of this course. The footage will be wiped from our drive shortly after the course is completed, in line with City Lit privacy policies and current data regulations.

As part of the course content, your tutor may record your image for initial and ongoing assessment purposes. You are entitled to decline to participate in the recording of your image.

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

Comfortable clothing should be worn. A notebook and pen.

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

Continue to build confidence and improve your skills in DRM020 screen acting: improvers; your tutor will advise you or contact drama@citylit.ac.uk. You may also want to consider a course in Stanislavski and or Method Acting.