Fall Masterclass Series

Fall 2022 MasterClass Descriptions:

Acting in Scene Work with Victoria Cruz

Saturday, November 12th 2022 12:30pm-2:30pm

$75.00 | Ages 18+

Students will be sent a selected scene from a play and be asked to prepare the scene for class. Preparation before class should include reading the play, understanding the characters' given circumstances, and memorizing the lines for class. No need to rehearse with other students before class. Students will work on the scene in class, be given constructive feedback, and acting techniques and games to help the actor deepen their understanding of the role to improve their performance and future performances.

Ensemble Work with Dylan Hudson

Sunday, November 13th 2:00pm-4:00pm

$50.00 | Ages 16 +

En•sem•ble (noun) a group of musicians, actors, or dancers who perform together. Within these two hours together we will explore the unique exchange of energy between ensembles. Using methods and techniques from Improvisation, Clown, and Viewpoints we will support, challenge, share, and collaborate. These techniques will help you feel “less awkward” collaborating with others, empowered to create, and feel more free in your body.

Audition Technique & Professionalism For The Modern Actor with Carson Wright

Wednesday, November 16th 12:00pm-2:00pm

$75.00 | Ages 16+

The tools, skills, and professional finesse that make working actors truly attractive and presentable can take years to cultivate. In Audition Technique & Professionalism For The Modern Actor, Dallas-based Carson Wright will walk you through them over the course of a few hours. We’ll cover both basic and advanced approaches to networking, communications, crafting your own public presence, appearing professional to casting directors and agents, and of course, nailing your audition.

From Self-Tape to On-Screen with Abi Brittle

Saturday, November 19th 10:00am-12:00pm

$65.00 | Ages 13+

In Playground’s first screen acting MasterClass, Abi Brittle will take you through each step of “booking a gig” , from submitting self tapes, to a work day on set. Whether you’re camera shy, frustrated and confused with castings + self-tape directions or wanting to feel more comfortable on camera, you’ll enjoy learning industry tips and tactics to help you feel confident. Come learn something new in a supportive and fun environment, grow as an artist, and maybe meet some special guests along the way…

Mastering Cold Reading with Katie Ibrahim

Saturday, November 19th 1:00pm-3:00pm

$75.00 | Ages 16+

Cold Reading is a common tactic used in On-Screen, Agency, and Theatrical auditions to see if an Actor is capable of fulfilling the role. This workshop will teach you how to confidently prepare yourself for a cold read audition, how to make "BOLD" choices, and how to land the role.

Uta Hagen: Exercises in Authenticity with Eric Berg

Wednesday, November 30th 6:30pm-9:00pm

$75.00 | Ages 16+

Musicians practice their scales. Ballet dancers warm up at the barre. What do actors do to prepare themselves for peak performance?  Get first hand experience in acting exercises crafted by Uta Hagen, one of the greatest stage actors of the last century, to “put your instincts and sense of truth… to use while probing and grappling with the content and roots of [acting] craft.”

Mime and Mask Work with Carson Wright

Saturday, December 3rd 12:00pm-2:00pm

$75.00 | Ages 13+

Any talented actor knows their body is one of the most important tools at their disposal. Communicating physically and fully embodying your character are key. In Mime & Mask Work, you’ll deepen those skills by exploring traditional pantomime in the style of French actor Marcel Marceau, embarking on freeing and expressive mask work a la the Italian commedia dell’arte, and learning how your body is connected to your emotional life as an actor—and as a person.

Workshop your Monologue with Victoria Cruz

Wednesday, December 14th 12:00pm- 2:00pm

$75.00 | Ages 16+

In Workshop your Monologue Victoria Cruz will use the 12 Guideposts from AUDITION by Michael Shurtleff to help perfect your monologue. She will coach you by giving constructive feedback, one-on-one attention, and acting technique tools that are applicable for any future role. Please prepare a 60-90 second contemporary monologue for this class.

Meisner I: The Reality of Doing with Eric Berg

Saturday, December 10th 12:00pm-2:00pm

$75.00 | Ages 16+

Have you ever gotten the acting note to "get out of your head”?  Have you ever struggled to take that note? Learn some of the foundational acting techniques and exercises pioneered by master acting teacher Sanford Meisner to get out of your head and anchor your acting in the “Reality of Doing.”

Meisner II: The Pinch & The Ouch with Eric Berg

Sunday, December 11th 2:00pm-4:00pm

$75.00 | Ages 16+

Have you ever struggled to “listen” to your scene partner? Are you unsure what to “do” in a scene? Sanford Meisner’s exercises challenge actors to hone their ability to listen specifically and  connect to their inner impulses.  Building on the Meisner I course, this class gives actors practical tools from one of the foundational American acting teachers, Sanford Meisner.