This five-week workshop explores the techniques that an actor uses to decode a text. Using both script analysis and physical exploration, you will explore language, form, and character in order to strengthen a performance.

Working with a range of texts from the 20th and 21st Century, you will explore practitioners such as Stanislavski and Michael Chekhov.

Through practical activities, discover the fundamental skills required for acting. Identify how to create character and how to respond effectively to other performers. Explore spontaneity and characterisation. Respond to text, work collaboratively and develop a specific approach in developing your performance skills.

This workshop is lead by actor and teacher Emma Playfair.

Emma joins the Arcola Theatre teaching program after her recent move from Sydney, Australia, where she graduated from the National Institute of Dramatic Arts. Emma has developed her professional Teaching Career working with a range of students across ages and acting levels at NIDA Open Program and the Sydney Performance Academy. As a working Actor, Emma has been involved in work-shopping plays with theatre makers, and acting within both the Sydney Stage and Screen industries. In 2015 she was awarded the “Best Actress of 2016” award in the Sydney Short N Sweet festival.Emma has recently co-founded NewPlay Productions in London, and continues to work as a professional Actor as well as an Acting and Voice coach. Emma hopes to have High Tea with the Queen very soon!

Monday 8 August – Monday 5 September

7:30-9:30pm