Directing Actors
Subject is not scheduled Not scheduled
| Code | Completion | Credits | Range | Language Instruction | Semester |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 311DIAC | exam | 2 | 2 hours (45 min) of instruction per week, 32 to 42 hours of self-study | English | winter |
Subject guarantor
Name of lecturer(s)
Department
The subject provides FAMU International
Contents
Students come to understand the film actor's process, in order to better work with them as directors. They learn to avoid result-oriented directing and replace it with actions, imagery, improvisations, as-if situations, and directing character rather than the actor.
Learning outcomes
- To learn tools for breaking down a script into acting units
- To learn tools for getting actors to connect to their roles and to each other;
- To practice communicating productively through verbs, images, questions and events;
- To practice using improvisation techniques for developing rich characters, and for integrating the characters into the space and situation of the story.
Prerequisites and other requirements
This course is offered only to APP students in the directing track.
Literature
Required readings:
Bruder, M. et al. (1986). A Practical Handbook for the Actor. NY: Vintage.
Cohen, R. (2007, 5th edition). Acting One. McGraw Hill.
Weston, J. (2014, updated 2021). Directing Actors. LA: Michael Weise Productions.
Recommended readings:
Travis, M. (2002). Directing Feature Films. LA: Michael Weise Productions.
DeKoven, L. (2006). Changing Direction. NY: Focal Press.
Meisner, S. (1987). Sanford Meisner on Acting. NY: Random House.
Evaluation methods and criteria
Two tests on readings and concepts (each 15% of final grade x2 =30%)
Two Scene breakdowns using 3-steps from Practical Handbook (each 10% of the grade x2 = 20%)
One detailed written rehearsal plan (20% of final grade)
Attendance and Participation in exercises (30% of the grade)
Note
Note on course content: At times, because the course focuses on working with actors who play characters in a variety of dramatic situations, material presented in an exercise may evoke emotional responses if/when the directing students relate to characters in potentially traumatic situations.
Students for whom exercises may trigger stressful or painful responses are invited to pass on participating in such exercises.
Further information
No schedule has been prepared for this course